Higher prices, added content for Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz has announced pricing today for its GLS, which is due to arrive in the local market in April next year.

Known until now as the GL, the biggest SUV in the Mercedes-Benz range has been facelifted and gains an 'S' suffix to signify the American-built SUV's flagship status, in parallel with the S-Class passenger-car range.

Starting prices have risen for the GLS, but Benz has packed in more goodies to offset the price increase.

In Australia the GLS will be offered in four variants, from the entry-level model to the range-topping AMG GLS 63. At entry-level the range kicks off with the GLS 350 d 4MATIC at $116,900 plus on-road costs -- up from $114,510.

Mid-range models comprise the GLS 350 d Sport 4MATIC ($135,900 -- up from $134,510) and the GLS 500 4MATIC ($161,900 -- up from $159,510), while the AMG GLS 63 costs $217,900 -- up more than $3000 from $214,510.

The GLS introduces an updated interior featuring a new instrument panel, a semi-integrated Media Display, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and modified centre console with touchpad.

Underneath the 5.1m length of the GLS, there's a new nine-speed automatic transmission for all drivetrain variants barring the AMG model. At entry level, the GLS carries over the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, rated at 190kW and 620Nm.

Standard features for Australian-spec vehicles will comprise Comand navigation, Apple CarPlay, an LED intelligent light system, Dynamic Select with five driving modes, and 20-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, all of which are new features in the GLS 350 d. Distinguished from the base model by AMG Line Exterior package, the GLS 350 d Sport comes equipped with Active Curve System (with active roll stabilisation), tyre pressure monitoring and metallic paint. Additionally, the Sport variant gains Nappa leather upholstery, the AMG Line interior pack and 21-inch AMG Alloys – all new to this variant.

The 4.7-litre V8 under the bonnet of the GL 500 has had power boosted by 15kW to 335kW, but peak torque remains at 700Nm. Like the V6 diesel variants, the petrol V8 model drives through a nine-speed automatic transmission. As standard the GL 500 comes with a panoramic glass electric sunroof with slide/tilt function, luxury front seats with heating and ventilation, heated second row seats, an anti-theft protection package and a digital TV tuner.

The AMG GLS 63 hurtles to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds, courtesy of its 5.5-litre V8, which is rated at 430kW and 760Nm. The AMG Driver's package sees the GLS 63's top speed raised to 270km/h and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system adopts a 40:60 rear-biased torque split. Trimmed as per the GLS 500, the GLS 63 also features Dynamic Select with Sport+ Driving mode, 22-inch AMG alloy wheels, AMG sports suspension, an AMG High Performance Brake system, power closing doors and an Air-Balance package.

Active safety inclusions consist of Collision Prevention Assist, Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist, Distronic Plus/Stop&Go Pilot, Pre-Safe Brake/pedestrian detection, BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Pre Safe Plus, Pre-Safe Brake and the electronic traction control.

Prices for the GLS are as follows:
GLS 350 d 4MATIC – $116,900
GLS 350 d 4MATIC Sport – $135,900
GLS 500 4MATIC – $161,900
AMG GLS 63 4MATIC – $217,900