Mercedes-Benz India launched the new flagship GLS 2020 SUV at ₹99.90 lakh. The three-row SUV now in its third-generation is available in two variants- the 400d diesel and 450 petrol. Both the petrol and diesel variants have the same price tag.
This is the second major launch for the German luxury car maker in just a few weeks after it introduced AMG C 63 Coupe and AMG GT R towards the end of May.
As the previous-gen model, the 2020 GLS SUV has arrived in India as a CKD (completely knocked down) product. It is being assembled at the company’s Pune based facility. In India, the GLS sales have crossed 6,700 units.
The new GLS is based on Mercedes’ Modular High Architecture (MHA) platform and is even larger than the model it replaces. The new GLS measures 5,207mm in length, 1,999mm in width, 1,823mm in height and has a 3,135mm wheelbase. The dimensions make the latest GLS 77mm longer and 22 mm wider than the old model. The wheelbase is a substantial 60mm longer too.
Cosmetically, it has been updated with a new bolder octagonal grille at the front. The new grille is flanked by Multibeam LED headlamps which comprise 112 LEDs (per lamp) and LED DRLs. It also gets larger air inlet grille and a chrome-plated under-guard at the front apron. At the back sits two-piece LED tail lamps with 3D pattern, and chrome finished twin exhaust tips.
The GLS 400d diesel is powered by Merc’s latest 3.0-litre, inline-six diesel engine that puts out 330hp and 700Nm of torque. Mercedes claims a 0-100kph time of 6.3 seconds, which is incredible for 2.4 tonne SUV. The GLS 450 petrol is powered by a 3.0-litre engine that makes 367hp and 500Nm of torque with an additional 22hp and 250Nm of torque served up from a 48V mild-hybrid system. The GLS 450 does the 0-100kph sprint in a claimed 6.2 secs.
Both engines are paired to a 9-speed torque converter automatic gearbox with Mercedes’ latest 4Matic four-wheel-drive system.
The new GLS’ standard equipment list includes twin 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster, Mercedes’ latest MBUX multimedia system with voice command and gesture control, a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, five-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging at the front and rear, rear seat entertainment screens, LED headlamps, 21-inch alloys and air suspension. There’s a button in the boot that folds the second and third rows to liberate 2,400 litres of space. A total of 11 USB ports are on offer inside the new GLS.
In terms of safety, the GLS is packed with 9 airbags, off-road ABS, blind spot assist, active brake assist, hill-descent control, a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors.
Mercedes-Benz GLS, 2019, AMG Line, designo selenitgrau metallic Mercedes-Benz GLS, 2019, AMG Line, designo selenite grey metallic