Is Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class an S-Class of SUVs?

Is Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class an S-Class of SUVs?

History

The GLS doesn’t have a vast history when compared to its other family members at the Mercedes-Benz. It was started not so long ago back in 2006 with the first generation GL-Class. It debuted at the North American International Auto Show which was held in Detroit, Michigan. The first generation of the GL-Class was smaller in size and it was launched to compete with Audi Q7 and BMW X5. But it had one distinction that made it unique among its competitor which was a third row of seats. In fact it was the first-ever German crossover SUV to feature a third row of seats.

The second generation of the GL-Class was launched in 2013 and it is still in production currently. The classification of the model was changed to GLS-Class to distinguish it from its little siblings the GLE, GLC and GLA. The second generation SUV was much bigger than the original model and also better in every single aspect.

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

The current second generation of the GLS-Class received a facelift from the 2017 model. The 2018 features the same design as the 2017 facelift but with a more refreshing touch. This is the biggest SUV in the GL line of Mercedes-Benz. It is also the equivalent of the S-Class sedan which makes it top-of-the-line.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class features many engine variants worldwide but only three are available in Canada which are GLS 450, GLS 550 and the AMG GLS 63. The standard version GLS 450 is powered by 3.0 L V6 Bi-turbo that produces 362 HP @5,250 RPM and 369 lb-ft of torque @1,700 RPM. All non-AMG variants of the GLS-Class are 4-wheel drive with 9-speed 9G-TRONIC transmission.

2018 Mercedes-AMG GL 63

No vehicle is safe from getting the monstrous treatment from the guys at AMG. The GLS-Class also has a variant under that AMG brand and it is called Mercedes-AMG GL 63. This insanely powerful machine features a handcrafted M157 engine by AMG. It is a 5.5 L Bi-turbo V8 which produces a whopping 577 HP and sends it to all 4 wheels. The monstrous engine propels this huge SUV from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 which makes it faster than most sedans. The transmission on the AMG variant is also different which is a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS.

The AMG package also features exotics wheels, special exhaust system and an aggressive grill to give it a distinctive look.


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Photo for illustrative purposes only.

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