Mercedes-Benz GLS launch on May 18

After fulfilling its ‘15 cars in 2015’ promise last year, Mercedes-Benz is intent on further adding new models to its portfolio in 2016 as well. After it launched the likes of the S400, C250d and Edition E earlier this year, it is all set to take the wraps off the Mercedez-Benz GLS in India on May 18.

And in case you were wondering, it is the GL-Class that has been renamed as the GLS under the manufacturer’s new nomenclature. 

Referring to it as the S-Class of SUVs, the Chakan-based manufacturer is aiming to provide a versatile experience to customers by combining the luxury of a premium sedan and the sheer presence of an SUV through the GLS.

On the design front, the car pretty much retains the shape of its predecessor, apart from the LED headlamps on a slightly modified front fascia and a renewed tail section.

In terms of features, the car gets a Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system that consists of a large, iPad-like screen stationed on the centre console. It functions as the one-stop source for audio, navigation, the reverse camera display, and various menus that help set the car up.  

Other additions include a new three-spoke steering wheel and Nappa Leather upholstery for all seven seats. 

In its 350d avatar, the Mercedes-Benz GLS will get the 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that churns out 255PS of max power and 620Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox that channels power to all four wheels via Mercedes' '4MATIC' all-wheel-drive system.

Given the extension of the blanket ban on diesel vehicles in the NCR, expect Mercedes to install a petrol engine on the GLS; most likely form the S400.

The car could come with a price tag of around Rs 80 lakh to India and rub shoulders with the likes of the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7.