New Mercedes-Benz GLS Unveiled at the New York Auto Show
Giancarlo Perlas April 22, 2019
More space, more comfort, and more luxury. That’s how the new Mercedes-Benz GLS is marketed by its maker. On top of that, the Mercedes flagship luxury sport utility vehicle is getting an engine boost.
Let’s see if it truly lives up to its promise to customers.
Exterior
The 2019 New York Auto Show was graced by the visually rich styling of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS that combines luxury with off-road capabilities. The SUV displays a more confident stance than its predecessor, thanks to its added 77 mm in length, extra 22 mm in width and 60 mm longer wheelbase.
Following the Sensual Purity design philosophy of Mercedes, the latest GLS features striking corners and panels that focus on beautifully sculpted surfaces instead of sharp body lines. Meanwhile, the fascia of the auto gives out a more aggressive styling with its dual horizontal louver front grille with inlets. This is complemented by the advanced Multibeam LED headlamps of the unit.
Interior
The added measurement in the wheelbase translates to more interior space that can house up to three rows of seats. The rearmost seats can be folded to get more storage space, and for the first time, the GLS is offering two individual captain’s chairs as optional replacements to the middle row of seats for extra comfort.
When it comes to tech, Mercedes didn’t hold back with the GLS. It is equipped with large touchscreen displays in its cockpit with the MBUX infotainment system.
Engine
At the moment, the new GLS has two engine choices. These are inline-six and V8 engines.
The GLS 450 4MATIC possesses a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six unit with 362 hp. The GLS 580 4MATIC takes the 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine with 483 hp. Each model comes with an additional 21 hp coming from EQ Boost.
