Mercedes-Benz Launches Completely Redesigned 'S-Class SUV' GLS... Diesel Priced at 138.6 Million KRW

[Asia Economy Reporter Su-yeon Woo] Mercedes-Benz Korea officially launched the third-generation completely redesigned flagship SUV GLS, which represents the 'S-Class' of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), in the domestic market on the 25th.

'The New Mercedes-Benz GLS' is a flagship SUV model that was first unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in 2006 and was reborn under the name GLS at the LA Auto Show in November 2015. It first appeared in the domestic market as a 7-seater model in 2016.

The newly launched GLS is the third-generation completely redesigned model, which was first revealed worldwide at last year's New York Auto Show. It features upgraded exterior design, dynamic driving performance, and best-in-class safety compared to the previous generation model.

Mark Rein, Vice President of Product and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Korea, said, "The GLS, known as the S-Class of SUVs, has strengths in every aspect and is a model that exceeds expectations. We are confident it will perfectly suit the active lifestyle of high-end customers in the premium luxury segment."

First, the GLS pursues modern luxury that covers both urban and off-road environments, based on its overwhelming presence revealed by its large body size. It secured a spacious interior with a wheelbase extended by 60mm compared to the previous model. Additionally, the angular exterior shape and omission of decorations emphasize the boldly expressed surfaces even more.

The interior space emphasizes comfort and luxury. It features two individual seats in the third row, completing the 7-seat configuration, and adds smooth leather materials and diverse trim decorations that showcase Mercedes-Benz’s craftsmanship. Furthermore, it offers a rear legroom widened by 87mm compared to the previous model, providing a spacious rear seat area. All seats can be electronically adjusted with ease, and the 'EASY-ENTRY' function, which allows the second-row seats to move forward or fold forward for easy access to the third row, is provided as a standard feature.

Moreover, it secures a maximum cargo space of 2400 liters, which is 100 liters larger than the previous generation model. The carpeted back of the rear seatbacks creates a flat cargo area for practical loading space, and the trunk can be lowered by about 50mm via a button, making it easier to load heavy items.

The powertrain is offered in two models: gasoline and diesel. The 'GLS 580 4MATIC' is equipped with a V8 gasoline engine, while the 'GLS 400 d 4MATIC' features a 6-cylinder diesel engine.

The gasoline model GLS 580 4MATIC is the first in Korea to be equipped with a new V8 gasoline engine combined with a 48-volt electrical system EQ Boost, delivering a maximum output of 489 horsepower and a maximum torque of 71.3 kg·m. Additionally, the integrated starter-generator supports the internal combustion engine with up to 22 horsepower and 25.5 kg·m of torque during acceleration.

The diesel model 400 d 4MATIC is powered by an inline 6-cylinder diesel engine (OM 656) and includes a two-stage turbocharger that reduces turbo lag and supports sporty acceleration, as well as a Camtronic variable valve lift system that lowers fuel consumption and efficiently manages exhaust emissions, producing a maximum output of 330 horsepower and a maximum torque of 71.3 kg·m.

The new GLS is equipped with an Airmatic suspension featuring an Adaptive Damping System (ADS), an intelligent suspension that automatically adjusts according to driving conditions, speed, and load. It provides optimal ride comfort regardless of road conditions and driving environment. The 'Off-Road Package,' standard on the GLS 580 4MATIC, combines a low-range off-road gear transmission with an all-wheel-drive system that variably distributes driving torque from 0 to 100 percent, helping ensure safe driving even on challenging road conditions.

The latest version of the infotainment system MBUX installed in the GLS supports intuitive vehicle control and real-time traffic information updates through a large 12.3-inch screen. Additionally, drivers can arrange their preferred driving information on the expanded head-up display (HUD), allowing them to observe surrounding conditions and support safer driving.

Furthermore, the latest version of the driving assistance package is standard, enhancing safety. The improved Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC function, which maintains distance from the vehicle ahead and supports automatic speed control, braking, and starting, now extends the automatic start after stopping from 3 seconds to 30 seconds.

The GLS 580 4MATIC comes standard with the Energizing Package Plus, which organically adjusts temperature control, heating, ventilation, massage seats, lighting, audio system, and air balance package according to the occupant’s mood and preferences to create an optimal environment.

The prices of the GLS 400 d 4MATIC and GLS 580 4MATIC are 138.6 million KRW and 163.6 million KRW respectively, including VAT.