Whether you’re driving your kids to school or stocking up on wine for your cellar, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-class SUV has the capacity and luxury to do it all. This beast isn’t just smooth on the streets; it has off road capabilities that will amaze you. Raise the air suspension for extra ground clearance, use the AWD tricks to stay on track, and there’s even armor for the sensitive bits when you’re rock and rut cruising.
On the road, the GLS nails it with agility and a comfy ride, putting rivals like BMW X7, Range Rover, and Navigator in the rearview.
New for 2024? Merc gave it a facelift – fresh grille, tweaked bumper, snazzy LED tail lights, a fancy steering wheel, and cool interior hues. Additionally, the GLS 450 petrol variant has been reintroduced, and the GLS 450 d, which replaces the 400 d diesel variant, has more power and torque.
Mercedes-Benz GLS: Exterior
The Mercedes Benz GLS knows how to turn heads, and I mean in a good way. It kicks off with that big three-pointed star on the grille, making a statement. The facelift brings some subtle sheet metal tweaks – a silver grille, new LED lights, and a restyled front bumper. Limited changes, but it’s still a showstopper. Its regal presence commands respect on the road.
Mercedes-Benz GLS: Interior And Features
Inside, it’s got a fresh vibe with subtle style tweaks. Glossy black panels with silver pinstripes replace wood trims, and it rocks Maybach-style air vents. The steering wheel got a makeover with touch-operable and physical buttons, making things easy on the go.
The GLS keeps the dual-screen setup, but the infotainment got a boost. Latest software, better touch sensitivity, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. New off-road screens, including an “invisible bonnet” feature using front and side cameras for tricky terrains. Big seats stay comfy, now with added ventilation and heating.
Getting into the middle row shows off generous space. Electrically sliding and reclining seats, and a cool boss function to push the front passenger seat forward. No love for the middle passenger, though, thanks to a chunky AC console hogging knee room. Rear seat package is standard now – soft pillows, twin rear screens, and a control tablet in the armrest console.
Heading to the third row is easy but slow. Electric middle row seats move forward gradually. Tight knee room, but adjust the middle row, and even adults can chill. Last-row gets its own air-con and ample window space, so no feeling cramped here.
Boot space is solid at 355 liters, even with all rows up. Fold the last and middle rows for a massive 1,470 liters of cargo room.
Mercedes-Benz GLS: Performance, Ride, And Handling
The revised petrol variant GLS 450 has a 14bhp increase in power (381bhp) but the same peak torque at 500 Nm from its 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which is supported by a 48V mild hybrid system.
The diesel variant GLS 450d replaces the GLS 400 D and increases power and torque by 37 hp and 50 Nm, respectively, to reach a maximum output of 367 hp and 750 Nm. This engine, too, has 48V mild-hybrid assist, and both types come standard with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
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Both variants can attain a top speed of 250 kmph and go from 0 to 100 kmph in 6.1 seconds, which is rather fast for an SUV its size.
Cabin stays quiet, thanks to laminated glass and sound-deadening measures. The GLS rolls on air suspension, prioritizing comfort. Smaller potholes? No problem. But cruising can feel a bit floaty, and we miss a Sport mode for a stiffer setup.
Steering’s light, making the drive easy. It’s loaded with autonomous driver assistance systems (ADAS), but the emergency braking is a bit too trigger-happy for our traffic.
| Engine Displacement | 2925 cc |
| Bhp (Diesel, Petrol) | 367 bhp and 381 bhp |
| Torque (Diesel, Petrol) | 750 Nm and 500 Nm |
| 0-100 kmph | 6.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 kmph |
| Upholstery | Black, Beige, and Brown |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch |
| Price (Diesel, Petrol) | ₹1.37 Cr and ₹1.32 Cr |
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Mercedes-Benz GLS: Price And Verdict
Sure, it could use sharper driving and captain seats for the middle row. But that Merc badge and GLS charm? Hard to ignore. Priced at Rs 1.32 crore for the petrol and Rs 1.37 crore for the diesel variant (ex-showroom), it brings more power and features, leveling up the Mercedes experience. The GLS ticks all the luxury SUV boxes, from road presence to a plush interior, a feature-packed ride to strong performance. It’s still a solid choice.
