Touted as the 'S-Class among SUVs', this is the new Mercedes-Benz GLS.
Although... it's actually not that new, rather it's a facelift of the old GL model that has been given a nameplate that fits in with Mercedes' latest 4x4 badging policy. However, there is improved efficiency, some new technology and extra power - the last facet being particularly interesting when it comes to the 585hp Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic.
Exterior
The GL's basic shape makes it through the metamorphosis to GLS, with the latest Mercedes bumpers, light clusters and grille treatment marking out the newcomer; think of the subtle changes enacted on the ML in its transformation to the GLE earlier this year and you're on the right track. As a result, that leaves you with a behemoth of an SUV: the GLS is 5,130mm long, 1,934mm wide and 1,850mm tall, with a massive 3,075mm wheelbase. Chrome-look details can be found on the roof rails, body underguards, trim strips on the shoulders of the GLS, the boot handle and on the side skirts. The GLS can be specified as an AMG Line, while new alloy wheel designs, some extra colours (such as the designo Diamond White and Hyacinth Red special editions) and the Night Package are all offered.
Interior
Mercedes is keen to play up the fact that the GLS is the only seven-seat full-size SUV (it seems to be conveniently overlooking the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery, Volvo XC90... etc. etc.), the claim seemingly founded on the back two chairs in the GLS being capable of accommodating real adult humans, rather than just children and other tiny beings. It's just massive inside and not only for the passengers; the boot can take anything between 680- and 2,300 litres of gubbins, loads of 2,124mm in length and anything up to the best part of a tonne (815kg) in terms of payload.
The same sort of exalted levels of both standard and optional equipment as found on the GL are loaded into the GLS, with some new additions bolstering the car's appeal. There's a fresh three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, the instrument panel has been redesigned with a 'semi-integrated' eight-inch colour Media Display, COMAND (the Merc's on-board infotainment) has been updated to the latest software and there are even more individualisation options on-board.
Driver safety assistance systems are improved, not least by the inclusion of the LED Intelligent Light System for better night-time visibility but also Magic Vision Control: heated, adaptive windscreen wipers designed to give the best in water distribution. Fancy.
Mechanicals
All the engines are more powerful and yet cleaner 'n' greener than before, although the GLS line-up majors on petrol power over diesels. There's just one solitary derv-burner, the GLS 350 d 4Matic, churning out 258hp and 620Nm. The petrol offerings begin with the GLS 400 4Matic, a biturbo V6 with 333hp and 480Nm, rising to the GLS 500 4Matic and its 455hp/700Nm twin-turbo V8. Topping the lot off is the monster Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic - boasting 28hp more than previously, with 585hp in total, and possessing 760Nm available from just 1,750rpm. Despite no official stats from Mercedes, the company claims this model has 'a significant increase in performance' and yet unchanged consumption/emissions figures from before.
All the three non-AMG models get the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, with the option of a low-range gearbox and centre differential lock on the spec sheets. Dynamic Select now has six different transmission modes, the Airmatic air suspension has been retuned and the optional active roll stabilisation as seen on the S-Class Coupé is an option, under the branding Active Curve System.
Anything else?
Prices for the new GLS are not yet confirmed outside of its native market of Germany, although we can tell you that it will be available to order from this month, with deliveries across Europe commencing in March 2016.