The revised exterior and luxurious interior showcase the impressive character of the GLS. Outside the vehicle, focus has been placed on the redesign of the front, however the rear bumper and tail lights have also been modernised. Inside the vehicle there’s a freshly designed instrument panel with semi-integrated media display, a new 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel and a modified centre console with innovative touchpad controller. The real icing on the cake though is the puddle lamps which illuminate the Mercedes-Benz badge.
S-Class entry level
The 350d is the entry level option for those interested, and it presents a very appealing string of features which can be built upon. Unlike the previous model, the 350d now includes COMAND online navigation, Apple CarPlay™, LED Intelligent Light System, Dynamic Select driving modes and 20” 10-spoke wheels. The GLS has lots of space for up to seven adults and it’s all topped off with luxury appointed trimmings.
The usual driver assistance systems from Mercedes have been included, ensuring the safest driving experience possible. Airbag technology has been truly unleashed with adaptive 2-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as window airbags across all rows of seats.
Get the Sport if you want more
If you have a spare $21K in your pocket, you may be interested in upgrading to the Sport package. This certainly ups the ante with a newly designed AMG line exterior, Active Curve System suspension with active roll stabilisation, tyre pressure monitoring and metallic paint. The Active Curve System uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle and reduces the body roll angle during cornering. This gives drivers a better experience on both windy and straight roads, and, should you need it, this system also has extended off-road capabilities. But that’s not the end, Nappa Leather, AMG line interior and 21” AMG wheels are also a standard fitment for this year’s model.
At a glance |
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Models | GLS 350d, GLS 350d Sport |
Engine | 3.0 V6 diesel |
Price | $139,000-$160,000 |
ANCAP safety rating | To be announced |
Power | 190 kW |
Transmission | 9-speed G-TRONIC automatic |
Fuel economy | 7.6L/100km diesel |
Towing capacity | 750kg unbraked, 3,402kg braked |
2WD/4WD/AWD | 4MATIC AWD |
Safety systems |
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Collision Prevention Assist Plus | Crosswind Assist |
Pre-Safe™ Brake with pedestrian detection | Brake Assist Plus with Cross Traffic Assist |
Active Lane Keeping Assist | Adaptive, two-stage, front airbags |
4ETS (Electronic all-wheel drive traction system) | Front knee airbags (thorax/pelvis) |
Reversing and proximity camera | Window airbags |