| Starting price: | 365,000 AED* |
| Engine volume: | 3.0, 4.7 or 5.5 Litre |
| Cylinders: | 6 or 8 Cylinders |
| Torque: | 500 to 759 Nm |
| Horsepower: | 329 to 577 Hp |
| 0 to 100 km/h: | Less than 5 seconds |
| Maximum speed: | 250+ km/h |
Mercedes-Benz have decided to phase at the GL series but not entirely, just the name is going and will be replaced with GLS (maybe it’s just an additional letter) as of 2015. 2017 models are what we’re talking about today as they are to receive some minor improvements.
First of all why GLS? Mercedes have decided that all SUV/crossovers in their line-up will have GL in their model name (except for G-Class SUV’s). Why G? G stands for Geländewagen in German and translated to English it means Off-Roading Vehicle. Oh my so many questions, just one more I’ll answer okay, why the change from GL to GLS? As Mercedes’s top of the range SUV it has to be like an S-Class but not just the interior and options but the badging as well.
As mentioned it’s only minor changes on the GLS, redesigned bumpers, rear lighting and a slight touch up to the front grille with front headlights on either side receiving some modification.
Three Mercedes-Benz GLS vehicles will be available to choose from all with various power outputs and engine displacements.
| Vehicle | Horsepower | Displacment |
| GLS 400 | 329 hp | 3.0 litre/V6 |
| GLS 500 | 449 hp | 4.7 litre/V8 |
| GLS 63 AMG | 577 hp | 5.5 litre/V8 |
GLS 400 and 500 models will be coupled with a nine-speed automatic gearbox sending power to all four wheels, whereas GLS 63 AMG models will have its power sent the same direction, however mated to a seven-speed auto transmission instead.
Inside, there is a new tri-spoked steering wheel filled with useful buttons, behind it is a enhanced TFT instrument panel for a crisper display, then there is an upgraded touchpad in the centre console for easy navigation around the new 8-inch high-resolution screen. Much like the S-Class an air ionisation system has been implemented and five unique trim options are available to choose from. As standard there is seating for up to seven passengers.
Out on the road current GL series and new GLS series have got some stiff competition from the Japanese powerhouse Lexus with their Lexus LX 570 and the mighty American Cadillac Escalade
| Cars | Mercedes GLS Series | Lexus LX570 | Cadillac Escalade |
| Engine volume: | 5.5 litre/V8 | 5.7 litre/V8 | 6.2 litre/V8 |
| Horsepower: | 557 hp | 362 hp | 420 hp |
| Torque: | 759 Nm | 530 Nm | 623 Nm |
| Maximum speed: | 200+ km/h | 220 km/h | 170 km/h |
| 0 to 100 km/h: | Less than 5 seconds | 7.2 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Engine alternatives: | Yes | No | No |
As always the rumour mill continues to spew out information about something that may or may not happen and in this case it’s a Maybach version of the GLS. As the GLS takes after the S-Class, no doubt Maybach version will take the uber luxurious interior design and features of the sedan and implement them. Maybe even extending the wheelbase for extra legroom is on the table. This is just speculation though, take it lightly.
Updated Mercedes-Benz GLS series are expected to launch sometime in 2016 as 2017 models, if you can’t wait till them, then check out all new Mercedes-Benz GL500 and Mercedes-Benz GL500 listings in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi on dubicars.com. Note, pricing is based off 2016 models.
