Mercedes-Benz GLS flagship SUV to be launched in India on May 18

German luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz will launch is flagship SUV, the GLS, on May 18 in India. The GLS is the previous GL-Class, renamed after the company started a new nomenclature system of cars last year. The GLS is the SUV equivalent of the flagship S-Class sedan, which leads one to expect that the GLS too will showcase latest technology, luxurious interiors, and features that emphasise on comfort.

In the new makeover unveiled globally last November, the GLS gets a new front-end in line with the new brand design language. The new twin slat grille sports a more imposing three-point star logo. The redesigned headlamp incorporates LED daytime running lights. The front and rear bumpers have been tweaked, there are new body colours, and alloy wheel designs. The basic silhouette of the SUV remains unchanged and only subtle changes can be found on the exterior.

The centre console will boast of a standalone tablet-sized 8-inch screen with touchpad control, which will replace the integrated display found in the outgoing model. A new 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel covered in Nappa leather also comes in the GLS. The GLS will also flaunt Dynamic Select that provides five driving modes that can be selected according to the terrain. In addition to the currently available comfort, slippery and sport driving modes, the GLS will also feature individual and off-road modes.

Though the SUV is available in petrol and diesel guises, in India only the diesel engine option is expected to be launched. The GLS350d 4MATIC will develop 3.0-litre V6 turbo engine that develops 255bhp and 616Nm of torque. This engine will be mated to nine-speed automatic transmission instead of seven-speed automatic gearbox.