Equipped for a Flagship SUV

Mercedes-Benz declared 2016 as its "SUV Year," focusing heavily on its sport utility vehicle lineup. Following the introduction of the GLC in February and the G550 Squared in April, President Kintaro Ueno of Mercedes-Benz Japan stated, "SUVs currently account for 24 percent of our sales, and this share is expected to grow further." The GLS, along with the AMG GLE 43 4MATIC and GLE Coupe, marks the third SUV release of the year.

The new GLS is a refreshed model of the previous GL-Class, featuring a facelift. It is distinguished by its unique three-row seating configuration within Mercedes-Benz's SUV range, accommodating up to seven adults. The name GLS combines "GL," signifying Mercedes-Benz's SUV line, with "S," denoting its S-Class-level stature.

With dimensions of 5,130 mm in length, 1,934 mm in width, and 1,850 mm in height for the '350 d' model, its size befits a top-tier vehicle.

The lineup includes the diesel-powered "GLS 350 d," the gasoline "GLS 550," and a powerful AMG variant.

The 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine in the "GLS 350 d 4MATIC" and "GLS 350 d 4MATIC Sports" models features a common-rail system and an electronically controlled variable turbocharger. It produces a maximum output of 258 hp and peak torque of 620 Nm. The "Blue TEC" diesel exhaust treatment system ensures compliance with Japanese emissions standards.

The gasoline "GLS 550 4MATIC Sports" is equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, delivering 455 hp and 700 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with the new 9-speed automatic transmission, "9G-TRONIC," also found in the diesel models, achieving a balance of high performance and fuel efficiency.

Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities

All models come standard with an electronically controlled air suspension system, "ADS PLUS (Adaptive Damping System Plus)," which automatically adjusts spring rate, damping force, and vehicle height based on road and driving conditions. The full-time four-wheel-drive system, "4MATIC," ensures stable and comfortable driving regardless of the situation.

The SUV also boasts comprehensive off-road driving support features, including "DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation)" for automatically maintaining a constant speed on steep descents. The GLS 550 4MATIC includes the "ON&OFFROAD Package" as standard, offering six driving programs that adjust shift logic, engine response, suspension characteristics, and steering for various conditions. It also features underbody protection and a low-range mode for serious off-road excursions.

The exterior design adopts AMG styling cues, including a front grille with twin louvers and enlarged air intakes. The Sports models feature chrome-look accents on the underguard, roof rails, and side skirts, blending SUV ruggedness with a sporty aesthetic.

The interior offers a quality comparable to Mercedes-Benz's flagship S-Class sedan. Ample elbow and headroom are provided in all three rows of seats, complemented by premium materials such as leather upholstery and wood trim for a luxurious cabin ambiance.

The GLS also offers practical versatility inherent to SUVs. The seating configuration can be adjusted to expand the luggage capacity from 680 liters to a maximum of 2,300 liters, catering to diverse lifestyle needs.

Safety is paramount, with the "Radar Safety Package" standard across all grades. This system integrates radar and camera technology to provide numerous features designed to prevent accidents and protect not only occupants but also other road users.

AMG Models Also Introduced

The Mercedes-AMG "GLS 63 4MATIC," also unveiled, is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 twin-turbo engine producing 585 hp and 760 Nm of torque. European specifications indicate a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The AMG GLS 63 4MATIC features a specially tuned "AMG 4MATIC" all-wheel-drive system, the "AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension," and the "ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM" for roll stabilization, emphasizing performance-oriented equipment characteristic of AMG models.

The refreshed GLS is available in six body colors. Pricing starts at 10.7 million yen for the "GLS 350 d 4MATIC," 11.9 million yen for the "GLS 350 d 4 MATIC Sports," 15 million yen for the "GLS 550 4MATIC Sports," and 19 million yen for the "AMG GLS 63 4MATIC."

Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 d 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 d 4MATIC sport
Body Dimensions: Length 5,130 x Width 1,934 x Height 1,850 mm
(Sport) Length 5,130 x Width 1,982 x Height 1,849 mm
Wheelbase: 3,075 mm Tread (Front/Rear): 1,655 / 1,675 mm (Sport) 1,677 / 1,696 mm
Vehicle Weight: 2,455 kg
Engine: 3.0L V6 DOHC Turbo Diesel
Max Output: 190 kW (258 hp) / 1,600-2,400 rpm
Max Torque: 620 Nm (63.2 kgm) / 1,600-4,800 rpm
Transmission: Electronically Controlled 9-Speed Automatic (9G-TRONIC)
Drivetrain: 4WD
Seating Capacity: 7
Steering Position: Right
Price: 10.7 million yen (Sport) 11.9 million yen

GLS 550 4MATIC Sports
Body Dimensions: Length 5,140 x Width 1,980 x Height 1,850 mm
Wheelbase: 3,075 mm
Vehicle Weight: 2,560 kg
Tread (Front/Rear): 1,675 / 1,695 mm
Seating Capacity: 7
Steering Position: Left
Drivetrain: 4WD
Engine: 4.7L V8 Twin-Turbo Gasoline
Max Output: 335 kW (455 hp) / 5,250-5,500 rpm
Max Torque: 700 Nm (71.4 kgm) / 1,800-3,500 rpm
Transmission: Electronically Controlled 9-Speed Automatic
Price: 15 million yen

AMG GLS 63 4MATIC
Body Dimensions: Length 5,160 x Width 1,980 x Height 1,850 mm
Wheelbase: 3,075 mm
Vehicle Weight: 2,610 kg
Tread (Front/Rear): 1,675 / 1,695 mm
Seating Capacity: 7
Steering Position: Left
Drivetrain: 4WD
Engine: 5.5L V8 Twin-Turbo Gasoline
Max Output: 430 kW (585 hp) / 5,500 rpm
Max Torque: 700 Nm (71.4 kgm) / 1,750-5,250 rpm
Transmission: Electronically Controlled 7-Speed Automatic
Price: 19 million yen