Our paparazzi have recently photographed a convoy of Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class models that are almost totally undisguised. This heavily updated version of the GL full-size model should debut within a few months and bring brand new engines.
Sporting Michigan plates, these three prototypes have small differences between them. One of them is likely a diesel, but the other two sport the brand new twin-turbo V6 engine from the 400 or 450 AMG models.
The silver SUV appears to have the AMG Sport body kit, with beefier wheel arches, sharper wheel design and a more aggressive front bumper. It might also be the GLS 450 AMG model, but we're not even 50% sure of that because the exhaust is too simple.
Mercedes is making a career out of replacing the old 3.5-liter V6 with a twin-turbo 3-liter rated at 333 PS (329 hp US). However, a higher output version already exists and delivers 367 PS on the GLE 450 AMG (coupe and regular SUV). Offering it with the Alabama-built 7-seat makes quite a bit of sense.
Higher up the GLS' totem pole, we might find the 4.7-liter V8 being replaced by a vanilla version of the 4-liter found in the AMG GT. It's already happened in the G-Class, so why not this family-oriented SUV?
Around the back, the exhaust system is better integrated into the diffuser, and a spoiler has been added. We expect interior changes to be limited to fresh trim, a new steering wheel and a larger, more capable infotainment system.
The silver SUV appears to have the AMG Sport body kit, with beefier wheel arches, sharper wheel design and a more aggressive front bumper. It might also be the GLS 450 AMG model, but we're not even 50% sure of that because the exhaust is too simple.
Mercedes is making a career out of replacing the old 3.5-liter V6 with a twin-turbo 3-liter rated at 333 PS (329 hp US). However, a higher output version already exists and delivers 367 PS on the GLE 450 AMG (coupe and regular SUV). Offering it with the Alabama-built 7-seat makes quite a bit of sense.
Higher up the GLS' totem pole, we might find the 4.7-liter V8 being replaced by a vanilla version of the 4-liter found in the AMG GT. It's already happened in the G-Class, so why not this family-oriented SUV?
Cosmetic changes
Except for the roof, every piece of metal on the GLS is slightly different to the outgoing GL-Class. Starting at the front, we see brand new Active LED High Performance lights. As you may have noticed, they connect to a chunky-looking grille with sportier mesh and a gigantic Merc star in the middle.Around the back, the exhaust system is better integrated into the diffuser, and a spoiler has been added. We expect interior changes to be limited to fresh trim, a new steering wheel and a larger, more capable infotainment system.