In the world of luxury, full-size SUVs see some serious names playing with serious models. On the sporty front, you're able to choose from the likes of Porsche, Maserati and, if the pocket allows, Lamborghini and even Ferrari. On the softer side, Bentley and Range Rover come into effect, as does the Mercedes-Benz GLS Class. The latest batch of updates to the X167 GLS Class further elevates its presence and relevance in the current market.
Related: Top 5 Mercedes-AMG GLS articles on AutoTrader
Three rows of seats means that there is more than ample space for you and the family or if you prefer to be driven in the Mercedes-Benz GLS, you won't find yourself wanting for space and convenience. A selection of powerful diesel or petrol engines means that you're also able to pick your preferred poison when it comes to traversing the highways and byways of the country and the intelligent 4MATIC system means that even the rougher stuff shouldn't have you turning around to find another route.
Styling
Large and imposing, the GLS has been refreshed with a new front-end treatment. The large, imposing grille has been reshaped and features large, muscular slats across its width. These are finished off in shadow chrome or satin silver depending on your trim preferences. The lower bumper has also been redesigned with integrated air inlets and a faux bash plate to emphasize its off-road capabilities.
The sides remain largely unchanged but a new set of multispoke 20-inch wheels exude a distinctive Maybach feel while around the back, new LED taillights with a three-block design are separated by a chrome garnish that spans the wdth of the trunk lid and gives the impression of additional width.
Interior
The interior revisions are subtle, with the biggest changes coming to the trim options. The air vents have a new, satin silver finish, and the MANUFAKTUR gloss black trim, which was previously only available on Mercedes-Maybach products, has now been made available to the GLS. It's complemented by the new steering wheel with its trio of twin spars, replete with touch controls. I still feel that this is Mercedes-Benz's Achilles heel, and even after all these years, these controls are no longer easy to use. They wouldn't be missed.
The widescreen cockpit that houses the latest MBUX infotainment system now features even more customization and allows for a choice of Classic, Sport, or Discreet style displays. Space is more than generous throughout the cabin and rear seat occupants can benefit from the Multi-Seat Entertainment Package if the vehicle is specified with it.
Engines
Two engine options are made available, a straight-six turbodiesel in the 450d, coming in at 3.0-litres and producing 270 kW or power and 750 Nm torque. This unit benefits from a 48 Volt mild hybrid system that further boosts the power by 15 kW and the torque by 200 Nm.
The sole petrol offering is the 580 variant that uses a 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 petrol engine, producing 380 kW and 730 Nm. It too is a mild hybrid and also sees an increase in power from the electric drive system, boosting power by 16 kW and 250 Nm.
We sampled the 450d and found it do be exceptionally comfortable and the 9-speed 9G-TRONIC gearbox is programmed to near perfection. One slight hiccup was the intervention of the electric assistance. The engine is quick to shut off and a little slow to restart, making stop-and-go traffic a bit more work than it should be. This is easily rectified by switching off the automatic stop/start system, but then you negate the effectiveness and fuel savings that come from this sort of electrical assistance.
Price
Click here to view our summary of the prices and specifications of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS Class. Mercedes-Benz and Maybach GLS Coming Soon: Price, Specs and Release Info
