The thing about the current GLS-Class is that you just feel like it's been designed for Americans. It is brash and overstated, unlike a Range Rover, for example. But the next generation appears to be a real luxury Merc and a better relative to the S-Class.
This latest spy video from Stuttgart comes days after we've seen the 2019 GLE with only minimal camouflage. Both share the new Mercedes design philosophy, having fewer bold lines for a streamlined look.
However, the shoulder lines of the GLS appear even smaller in relationship to the longer, sleeker body. The door handles disappear into the bodywork, but those big wheels still make a powerful statement.
Another area where the GLS appears classier is headlight design. It's clean yet high-tech, and we believe many customers don't want a 7-seat vehicle that stands out, even if it's a Mercedes.
Thanks to the recent GLE press event, we know quite a lot about the new SUV technology developed for these two. It seems the air suspension will have a Magic Body-like function but can also bob the vehicle up and down to get it unstuck from sand.
The important engine for America is an inline-6 turbo with 360-something horsepower. V8s will also be available, including in AMG form. Europe will have quite a few six-cylinder types of diesel as well. But while four-cylinder units have just been confirmed for the GLE, we doubt this larger 7-seater will have them as well.
The flagship hybrid will be the GLS 560 S with a 367 HP 3.0-liter matched to a 90kW, 440 Nm electric motor. However, a less powerful 2-liter hybrid might be developed for China.
The GLS 63 S will once again take AMG's 4-liter turbo beyond 600 HP, just like the E63 and S63 did. However, the most potent model could become the GLS 73, a crazy hybrid V8.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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