A Brief Look at the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The demand for luxury SUVs has grown significantly over the past few decades as consumers are looking for vehicles that offer high levels of comfort, technology, performance, and style. Mercedes-Benz, one of the leading luxury automakers in the world, recognized this trend and introduced the GLS-Class in 2006. The GLS-Class has garnered much attention since its release and has established itself as a top-of-the-line SUV. Let’s take a closer look at the history and evolution of the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vehicle.
The First Generation (2006-2012)
The first generation of the GLS-Class was introduced in 2006 as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. It was launched as a full-size luxury SUV that could carry up to seven passengers in comfort and style. The GLS-Class had an imposing exterior design with an oversized grille, muscular shoulders, and large wheels. It was available in three trims: GL320 CDI, GL450, and GL550.
The GL320 CDI was powered by a V6 diesel engine that produced 215 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, while the GL450 and GL550 were equipped with V8 gasoline engines that generated 335 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque and 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, respectively. All three trims came with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The first-generation GLS-Class featured a variety of standard and optional features, including heated leather seats, a sunroof, automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a premium audio system. It also had an advanced air suspension system that provided a comfortable ride on any terrain.
The Second Generation (2013-2019)
The second generation of the GLS-Class was introduced in 2013 and represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor. The exterior design was more refined, with a sleeker grille, sharper lines, and more aerodynamic features. The interior was also completely redesigned with a more modern and luxurious feel.
The GLS-Class was available in five trims: GL350 BlueTEC, GL450, GL550, GL63 AMG, and GLS550e Plug-In Hybrid. The GL350 BlueTEC was powered by a V6 diesel engine that produced 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, while the GL450 and GL550 came with V8 gasoline engines with 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque and 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, respectively. The GLS63 AMG was the top-of-the-line model with a V8 engine that generated 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
The second-generation GLS-Class featured a wide range of standard and optional features, including a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging front seats, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. The GLS550e Plug-In Hybrid was the first hybrid model in the GLS-Class lineup and was equipped with a V6 engine and an electric motor that combined to produce 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.
The Third Generation (2020-Present)
The third generation of the GLS-Class was introduced in 2020 and is the most advanced and luxurious version of the SUV yet. The exterior design is more streamlined and aerodynamic than ever before, with a larger grille and slim LED headlights. The interior has been completely redesigned with a more spacious cabin, higher-quality materials, and advanced technology.
The GLS-Class is available in three trims: GLS450, GLS580, and GLS63 AMG. The GLS450 is powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine that generates 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the GLS580 comes with a V8 engine that produces 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The GLS63 AMG is the most powerful model in the lineup with a V8 engine that delivers 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
The third-generation GLS-Class features a wide range of standard and optional features, including a panoramic sunroof, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, massaging seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. It also comes with several advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has come a long way since its introduction in 2006. Each generation has been an improvement over its predecessor, with advanced technology, luxurious features, and powerful engines. The GLS-Class has established itself as one of the most popular luxury SUVs on the market and continues to be a top choice for consumers who demand the best in comfort, performance, and style.