Now in SA: Merc GLS is big on everything

Published May 11, 2016

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By: IOL Motoring Staff

By now you might be familiar with Mercedes-Benz's latest naming strategy for its SUVs.

In a nutshell, they now all start with 'GL' - except for the spectacularly capable and old school G-Class of course. Thus from smallest to largest, we now have the GLA, GLC, GLE and the GLS, those last letters signifying the passenger car range that they're most closely related to, even if it's just in terms of size and positioning.

While the GLS, which is being launched in South Africa this week, is not actually based on the S-Class, Mercedes is positioning it as the S-Class of SUVs.

The GLS is essentially just a facelifted GL but the changes go well beyond the redesigned front end, which brings it in line with the latest family look, and the mildly freshened rear end.

Engines get a boost

For starters, the petrol engines have been given a boost. The 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8 in the GLS 500 gains 15kW to produce 335kW, while maximum torque remains at 700Nm. The monstrous GLS 63 AMG also retains its torque output of 760Nm but power is up 20kW to total 430 killerwatts at 5500rpm.

The sensible choice in the range, assuming that word has any place in the same sentence as a behemoth of an SUV that costs just shy of R1.3 million, is the GLS 350d, which carries over its 109kW/620Nm 3-litre V6 turbodiesel engine.

This and the GLS 500 are both mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox, which feeds all four wheels through Merc's 4Matic all-wheel drive. Those who can't keep their expensive new toy out the bush can also opt for a low-range gearbox and centre diff lock and they’ll be pleased to know that the standard Airmatic air suspension can raise the ride height to 306mm when required. This all adds up to make the GLS surprisingly capable off the beaten track.

Also read: We drive Merc's capable new GLS  

Yet for its well heeled clients, it's the inside story that counts the most and the GLS answers with a spacious seven-seat layout, with ample boot room to spare.

Design changes inside include a restyled instrument panel with semi-integrated media display and there's a new three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Some new colours and trims have also been added to the mix.

The modified centre console now houses a touch pad, which links you up to the latest-generation Comand Online infotainment system, featuring a 20cm colour display.

Standard driver assistance gadgets include Pre-Safe, Collision Prevention Assist Plus as well as cruise control with Speedtronic variable speed limiter and steering assist function.

Over and above that you can opt for the Driver Assistance pack, which brings extras like the Stop&Go Pilot traffic jam helper as well as pedestrian detection, cross-traffic assist and the usual lane and blind spot assistance systems.

PRICES

GLS 350 d 4Matic - R1 283 900

GLS 500 4Matic - R1 444 400

GLS 63 4Matic - R2 469 900

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