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In pics: Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI

It gets a reworked face that houses all-LED headlamps and a new grille, new alloy wheels and redesigned tail lamps.

By :  arka sengupta
Update: 2016-05-23 10:18 GMT
Mercedes-Benz launched its flagship SUV, the GLS. Essentially a facelift for the current GL-Class, it incorporates a few update along with the nomenclature change. It gets a reworked face that houses all-LED headlamps and a new grille, new alloy wheels and redesigned tail lamps. We expect the GLS to be powered by the same 3.0-litre V6 motor that develops 255PS of power and 620Nm of torque.
It doesn't quite let you realise how big it is off tarmac, but expectedly, you do get a sense of the massive dimensions and weight on tarmac, even in Sport mode. It is a big SUV and likes to driven like one, and not thrown around corners.
Off-road makes the suspension softer, and despite its large dimensions the GLS felt capable of going tarmac once I switched to Off-road mode, especially with the raised suspension height.
Sport mode obviously stiffens the suspension, with sharper inputs from the steering and better throttle response and that's apt if you want to enjoy driving fast on an open road. Comfort mode trades handling for a plusher ride as it softens the suspension a bit and makes the steering lighter as well.
The GLS is a refreshed version of Mercedes-Benz's full-sized luxury SUV, the erstwhile GL-Class, getting the 'family face' and a host of new features and equipment.
Ride quality is what you would expect of a Mercedes-Benz, thanks to the air suspension that does a good job of soaking in bumps and undulations even the large 20-inch wheels.
The third row offers enough space to seat two people, though getting in is a bit of a squeeze as the second row seats do not slide forward and can only be tumbled.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI - Second row center AC unit
The second row is the place to be with its kind of legroom, headroom, kneeroom and of course the comfort. The rich feel from the plush leather seats adds to the luxurious experience of being ensconced in the back seat, and it isn't surprising why a lot of GL buyers are chauffeur-driven.
Push Button Start switch besides the headlight control knob
The ambience inside is better than before thanks to the mood lighting, and you can choose from three colours and five variable adjustments. Features like a large, panoramic sunroof, cup holders that cool or heat up your drink, and electric fold for the third row seats are on offer too, as expected in a luxury SUV.
The design and layout of the dashboard is typically Mercedes though it looks a bit dated now with a lot of buttons and switches.
Not that the driver's seat is a snug-fitting Recaro either. It offers great comfort, allowing you to sink into its softness while also offering good support. The view it offers is towering, adding to the massive feel of being seated in something massive.
The large exterior dimensions translate to acres of space inside, and the GLS is one of the largest SUVs inside too, with genuine space for seven adults and not five adults and two kids.
The GLS 350 CDI is powered by Merc's popular 3.0-litre V6 diesel motor that's known for its silky smooth feel. With 261PS of power and a massive 620Nm of torque, the GLS is no slouch in terms of acceleration, despite its gargantuan dimensions and 2.4 tonne weight. With peak torque on offer from as low as 1600rpm, the GLS is quick to take off, a
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI - ORVM with indicators
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI - 20-inch wheels
The highlight is the change to full-LED, adaptive headlights that look like the ones on the S-Class.
Other changes include a more rounded, muscular twin slate grille; as also a redesigned bumper and hood that add more pizzazz to the SUV's personality.
The intricate design of the headlamp and tail lamp units is no less than that of a jewel though, and it is something that's worth taking a closer look at.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI - Rear View
Changes at the rear are limited to a revised bumper and full-LED tail lights which look similar to the predecessor's from a distance.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 CDI - Profile
The most obvious change is at the front with the GLS getting a new face.
What gets your attention from the sides is the enormous length. At over five metres long the GLS is one of the biggest SUVs in the country, and is longer and wider than a lot of other full-sized luxury SUVs.
Goes without saying, the GLS looks a lot more appealing. It's a design that will make you soak in the details there's a sense of familiarity to the face, though it is more muscular and well-toned, the way a SUV's should look.
The GLS is a refreshed version of Mercedes-Benz's full-sized luxury SUV, the erstwhile GL-Class, getting the 'family face' and a host of new features and equipment.
It gets a reworked face that houses all-LED headlamps and a new grille, new alloy wheels and redesigned tail lamps.

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