Mercedes-Benz GLS touted as the S-Class of SUVs

Priced at Rs 80.40 lakh, the GLS is definitely better-looking, better-equipped, and a more likeable version of an already successful full-sized luxury SUV

With a mid-life makeover, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has also got a new name. Under the German automaker's new nomenclature policy, it is now called the 'GLS-Class'.

Widely touted to be the 'S-Class of SUVs,' the behemoth from Mercedes' stable promises a unique blend of luxury, power and exclusivity. But, does it deliver? Let's find out.

If you are familiar with the outgoing GL-Class, the GLS will be easily identifiable. The biggest change, of course, is the reworked face that is now in line with the 'family' look Mercedes is aiming for.

A larger, two-slat grille is now flanked by full-LED adaptive headlamps that are reminiscent of the S-Class. The bumper and the bonnet have been redesigned as well, which give the GLS an intimidating face.

The side and the rear remain largely the same, with the updates being limited to the alloy wheels, taillights and the rear bumper.

The big brute from Mercedes is amongst the largest vehicles in the country, measuring over five metres in length. Needless to say, the GLS demands respect and attention wherever it goes.

Having humongous proportions on the outside translates into acres of space on the inside. The GLS is a true seven-seater that can accommodate a full house of adults.

Space, in all three rows, is mega, and occupants have more than adequate headroom, legroom and shoulder room.

Our only grouse would be that accessing the third row is a bit of a task. It would have been much easier if the second row could slide back and forth. Lest we forget, all seven seats are draped in fine leather and are supreme on comfort.

Updates to the interior include a new three-spoke steering wheel and the twin pod instrument cluster. It also gets an 8-inch display that sits on top of the dashboard and is connected to Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system. It can be controlled using the touchpad on the centre console or the rotary knob located underneath.

Powering the GLS is a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that develops 261PS of power and a healthy 620Nm of torque. What we like is how refined the motor feels, especially on the inside. The peak torque kicks in very early in the rev range (1600 rpm) and power builds up very linearly post that.

Despite weighing over 2.4 tonnes, the mammoth picks up pace rather quickly. The biggest update on the mechanical front is that Mercedes has ditched the old 7-speed gearbox for a newer 9-speed unit.

The new gearbox is evidently quicker to respond to throttle inputs compared to the old one. That said, it is slightly lethargic on the downshifts, especially whilst using the paddle shifters.

That aside, the gearbox does a mighty job of harnessing the engine's potential. Thanks to the tall ninth gear, the engine is spinning well below 2,000rpm even when the speedometer hits the 100kmph mark.

Ride quality is as one would expect from a Mercedes-Benz. It is fantastic. The air suspension irons out every possible irregularity on road surfaces.

And, as if that wasn't good enough, the enormous ground clearance and the large 20-inch wheels aren't really fazed by the odd pothole or a crater for that matter.

We also have to point out that despite its size, it is fairly easy to manoeuvre the GLS around the city. The steering isn't too heavy and the 360-degree camera is a proper boon while parking.

With the facelift, the GLS gets the DYNAMIC Select dial that lets one set up the vehicle depending on the terrain you are driving on.

One can choose from Individual, Sport, Comfort, Slippery and Off-Road. For cantering about within the city, the Comfort mode does just fine. The ride is plush and there's no urgency from the motor.

Sport obviously sharpens things up a bit -- the throttle is livelier, the suspension is a tad stiffer, and the GLS becomes a bit more obedient around the bends in general.

Priced at Rs 80.40 lakh, the GLS commands a slight premium over the car it replaces. It is definitely better-looking, better-equipped, and a more likeable version of an already successful full-sized luxury SUV. However, with the likes of the Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90 stepping up the game, it isn't going to be easy pickings for the Mercedes.

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