Mercedes GLS. Confident superiority
Mercedes GLS is a full-size all-wheel drive luxury S-class crossover from German brand Mercedes-Benz, which has been produced since 2015. In 2020, the second generation of the 2019 model year SUV was available on the Israeli market.
The letters ‘GL’ in the name stand for ‘Geländewagen Lang’, German for ‘long SUV’, and the letter ‘S’ stands for belonging to S-class. In the model range, Mercedes GLS stands above GLE-class and is top-of-the-line. It is designed to compete with BMW X7 and Audi Q8, as well as Range Rover, Lexus LX, Cadillac Escalade, and Lincoln Navigator.
The first generation of the crossover has been in production since 2006. Then GL-Class was a larger and more luxurious version of the M-series SUVs. In 2015, the company facelifted the second generation GL and changed the name of the series to GLS. From this moment, the official countdown of generations of Mercedes GLS SUVs is going on. But in fact, let’s not forget that this series includes three generations of vehicles with the following nomenclature: first generation X164 (produced from 2006 to 2012), second generation X166 (started sales in 2012), and third generation X167 (produced since 2019).
First generation
Produced from 2015 to 2019. In 2012 a car with a codename X166 came to replace the first representative of the GL-series. It was produced in Alabama, USA. In 2015, after restyling, it was renamed GLS and became the first generation of the new series.
The first GLS was larger than its predecessor, yet 100 kg lighter. It had a more luxurious interior and exterior and was equipped with a wide range of hi-tech controls and systems. For example, the BlueEFFICIENCY package, which included a start/stop system, intelligent alternator control, electric steering wheel, etc. Also, this SUV received upgraded gasoline and diesel engines. Manufacturer stated that ‘the new generation of GL-class has become much more efficient than the previous one’.
The letters ‘GL’ in the name stand for ‘Geländewagen Lang’, German for ‘long SUV’, and the letter ‘S’ stands for belonging to S-class. In the model range, Mercedes GLS stands above GLE-class and is top-of-the-line.
As a result of the 2015 restyling, first GLS, not only change front optics and taillights but also received its name. The interior of the car was modernized. The dashboard is, however, similar to that used on the last generation of the GLE-class.
Second generation
Produced from 2019 to present (data for 2020). First shown in New York in 2019, second GLS with codename X167 is built on the new Modular High Architecture (MHA) platform, which also builds the second generation GLE. SUV received a new air and hydropneumatic suspension Airmatic and E-Active Body Control, respectively. Using a camera mounted under the windshield that scans the road surface, the system prepares and adjusts the suspension for upcoming road irregularities. Proportions are impressive – long hood and wheel size up to 23 inches. It demonstrates power and dominance. Clear surfaces and minimal lines create a light and elegant picture.
New Mercedes GLS has increased in size and received the Mercedes' signature design based on the philosophy of ‘Sensual purity’. The front is decorated with a large radiator grill with the company logo, which can change depending on the configuration. Large side air intakes and narrow headlights give the SUV a solid and furious look. There are modern MULTIBEAM LEDs with 112 LEDs in each headlight. The taillights can automatically adjust the brightness depending on the time of day. The taillights have become narrower; the high rear bumper is adorned at the bottom by a plastic insert with two exhaust vents on the sides. The window frames are fully framed in chrome or gloss black frames (Sport configuration).
The 2020 GLS interior has been almost completely redesigned. Now inside are two large screens of 12.3 inches each, new MBUX multimedia system, controlled by buttons, touchpad, and voice. In addition, it is equipped with Energizing Comfort Control, which can automatically control climate control, electric seat adjustment, audio system, and so on, adjusting to your mood. Due to increased space in the cabin, it became possible to place the third row of seats. It is electrically adjustable and heated, as in the second and first rows. The number of seats can be reduced to 6 by removing the second row center seat. Also, the second row received an electric folding using a button in the luggage compartment. In the line of engines of the new Mercedes GLS 2020/2021, there are both gasoline and diesel engines.
