Mercedes has a new SUV flagship ready in the form of the 2020 GLS; a three-row luxury crossover that aims to rival models like the BMW X7, the Cadillac Escalade and the Lincoln Navigator.
With the press launch currently taking place at Salt Lake City, the time has come for the first video reviews to surface online, including the following from Carwow.
Mercedes calls the 2020 GLS “the S-Class of SUVs”, with the new model featuring an impressive array of new technologies. Among these technologies is of course the E-Active Body Control suspension, which not only keeps the GLS flat no matter the surface it’s on, it also has a rocking mode that helps free the vehicle if it becomes stuck on sand or mud.
Also Read: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Officially Out As “The S-Class Of SUVs”
Compared to its predecessor, the new Mercedes GLS is bigger in pretty much every direction, benefiting mostly the available interior space. The company claims that passengers up to 1.94m (6ft 4) can sit on the third row without any problems.
The cabin shares its design with the GLE, meaning it gets the same dashboard complete with the dual displays and some really shiny switchgear combined with LED ambient lighting. The end result remains visually impressive, but the material quality in certain areas apparently could be better, according to this review.
The range-topping version of the flagship Mercedes SUV is the GLS 580, which uses the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 in combination with a mild-hybrid 48-volt system. The engine produces 482hp (489PS) and 516lb-ft (700Nm) of torque, while the ISG can add an extra 21hp and 184lb-ft when necessary over short periods.
The gasoline range also includes the GLS 450, which is powered by an also electrified 3.0-liter straight six engine with 362hp (367PS) and 369lb-ft (500Nm) of torque. Europe will also get a pair of 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engines with up to 325hp.
Is the new Mercedes GLS the “S-Class of SUVs” or is it just clever marketing talk?