2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS is shown for the first time in motion, testing in prototype form on the streets of Stuttgart. Set to receive fresh name and design, the new GLS has been caught by regular car spotter Walko.
The GLS is essentialy a facelifted GL full-size SUV. The light camouflage reveals the cosmetic changes will revolve around the front with new headlights, grille assembly and bumper all expected to make an appearance. At the rear, all we see is a new pair of tail-lights with LED technology.
Mercedes knows the GLS will face fierce competition in the new Bentayga, Bentley’s first-ever SUV. The result is a heavily modified interior featuring a big step up in therms of fit and finish plus an all-new infotainment system lifted straight from the recently upgraded GLE smaller sibling, 8-inch color screen and rotary controller included.
Also borrowed from the GLE is the adaptive drive train and the off-road mapping with its four different settings. Of course, this doesn’t mean that future Mercedes-Benz GLS owners will venture too far off the tarmac.
The GLS 350, GLS 450, GLS 550 and GLS 63 AMG variants will carry on unchanged alongside the recently introduced GLS 400 equipped with a twin-turbo V6 3.0-litre producing 333 hp. Top AMG 63 will still deliver a whopping 557 HP. As you’d probably have guessed the engine will stay the same with the overtly familiar 5,5-liter bi-turbo V8 still in service under the long menacing bonnet of the facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLS 63.
Commercial debut is slated for early next year with the public premiere programmed to take place in January at the Detroit motor show.
