The Mercedes-Benz GLS Is Pure SUV Opulence For Seven People

The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLS makes its debut at the 2019 New York Auto Show. The German brand’s large SUV is even bigger than before and carries more luxury amenities than the model it replaces.

From the outside, the GLS features a similar design with the GLE midsize SUV, which is no surprise given that the two SUVs share the same platform. The brand’s flagship SUV features a wide grille with two slats, which are of course flanked by a pair of LED headlights with LED daytime running lights. The side profile has fewer character lines than its predecessor, which is in line with the brand’s new design language that focuses on the overall shape of the vehicle to deliver a well-proportioned and cleaner look. The rear fascia has a chrome bar running across the SUV’s width, connecting the two LED tail lights.

Inside, the GLS features a similar design with the Mercedes-Benz GLE, with the highlight being those two 12.3-inch displays for the MBUX infotainment system. The larger dimensions translate to increased interior space. Mercedes-Benz claims that up to 6’4″ adults can fit in the third-row seats. For the first time ever, captain’s chairs can be selected for the second rows instead of the standard bench-type seat. Rear passengers get to enjoy the MBUX infotainment system through an optional MBUX Rear Entertainment System with two 11.6-inch screens or the Rear Comfort Package Plus, which adds a 7-inch tablet to control all MBUX functions.

Under the hood of the GLS are a host of engine choices. The GLS 580 4Matic has a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 with the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an integrated starter-generator (ISG). The total system output is 482 hp and 700 Nm of torque. The GLS 450 4Matic has a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 with the same EQ Boost 48-volt mild hybrid system and ISG. Total system output is 362 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Lastly, there will be two inline-6 turbodiesels available in two states of tune, producing 282 hp and 600 Nm of torque, or 325 hp and 700 Nm of torque. All engines are mated to a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD system.

As expected, the Mercedes-Benz GLS comes with a host of active driver assist systems, as well as a few new ones, which include Active Distance Assist, Active Stop-and-Go Assist, among others.