The German luxury carmaker, Mercedes-Benz has launched the new 2020 GLS SUV in India at an introductory price of Rs 99.90 lakh. The third generation 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS is available in 2 variants – the 400d diesel and 450 petrol. The new model was unveiled at the 2019 New York Auto Show. It is based on the company’s new modular high architecture (MHA) that also underpins the new GLE.
The three-row SUV is bigger than the previous model. It measures 5,207mm in length, 1,999mm in width, 1,823mm in height and has a wheelbase of 3,135mm. THe new model is 77mm longer and 22mm wider, while the wheelbase has been increased by 60mm. The increase in dimensions helps the brand to create more space inside the cabin. For the first time, the GLS SUV will be offered with a 6-seater option with two luxury individual seats for the second row.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS is equipped with high-end features. It gets an all-new dashboard dominated by a 12.3-inch digital instrument console and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The new-gen GLS also gets the new MBUX system with voice command and gesture control, and rear-seat entertainment along with two 11.6 displays for entertainment. The SUV also gets new driver assistance system, heated seats and 5-zone climate control.
The new GLS rides on newly designed and developed 21-inch alloys. The second and third row of seats can be folded down using a button in the boot, which increases the luggage compartment to 2,400-litres. The SUV comes with a total of 11 USB ports. For safety and security, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets 9 airbags, off-road ABS, blind spot assist, hill descent control, brake assist and a 360 degree camera.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS design highlights include prominent octagonal grille and multibeam LED headlamps (112 LEDs per headlamp and DRLs with 3 LED segments), larger air inlet, chromed under-guard and two power domes on the bonnet. At the back, the new GLS gets two-piece LED tail-lamps with a 3D pattern, silver skid plate and dual exhaust mufflers with chrome bezels.
The GLS 400d diesel is powered by a 3.0-litre, inline-six cylinder diesel engine that produces 330bhp and 700Nm of torque. It is claimed to achieve 0-100kmph in just 6.3 seconds. The GLS 450 petrol gets a 3.0L engine that is good for 367bhp and 500Nm of torque. It is paired to a 48V mild-hybrid system, which gives an additional 22bhp and 250Nm of torque. It is claimed to achieve 0-100kmph in 6.2 seconds. Power is transmitted to all-wheel wheels via a 9-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox.
