Mercedes-Benz India today launched its full size SUV the GLS at Rs 80.4 lakhs ex-showroom, Pune. The available variant in India is 350d, which will be assembled locally at company’s plant in Chakan, Pune. The GLS follows Mercedes’ new nomenclature and is basically a facelifted version of the earlier GL Class, and is said to be the S Class of the SUVs. The GLS will rival Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90.
Key features of the GLS include –
• Heated 3-spoke multifunction nappa leather steering wheel
• 9-G TRONIC: 9-Speed Automatic Transmission
• DYNAMIC SELECT controller with 5 modes: Comfort, Sport, Slippery, Individual and Off-road
• Panoramic sunroof
• Full LED Headlamps with Intelligent Light System
• Adaptive highbeam Assist Plus
• 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive System
• AIRMATIC suspension with Adaptive Dampening System Plus
• New Generation Telematics (NTG 5*1)
• Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay™
• COMAND Online with 8 inch high resolution media display and Touchpad
• Mirror package with brand logo projection
• Memory package for driver and front passenger
• Parking package with Active Parking Assist and 360° camera
In terms of storage space, the GLS can provide a volume of 680 to 2300 litres and the company claims this surpasses the amount of space offered by the vehicle’s European competitors.
Powering this behemoth is a 2987 CC V6 Diesel motor producing 250 hp @ 3400 rpm and 620 Nm of torque @ 1600 – 2400 rpm. This engine is mated to Mercedes’ 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and Mercedes claims this transmission has been designed to reduce fuel consumption, enhance driving pleasure and smoother gear changes.
Talking about the safety, the GLS comes with Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE system, BAS Brake Assist, the electronic all-wheel drive traction system 4ETS, ESP with Curve Dynamic Assist and cruise control. There are “electronic crumple zones” for occupant protection. Adaptive, two-stage airbags for driver and front passenger, side bags for driver, front passenger and the middle row seats (combined thorax/pelvisbags) and windowbags across all three seat rows are also part of the standard specification. In addition, the GLS is fitted with three-point safety belts on all seven seats.
Roland Folger, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said – “Popularly known as the S-Class of SUVs, the introduction of the GLS underscores Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in the luxury SUV segment in India. The GLS is the epitome of exemplary engineering that cleverly combines unmatched space, with delightful driving pleasure on any terrain. With the launch of the GLS, we are glad to provide the most comprehensive luxury SUV portfolio in the country to our discerning customers. India has a growing penchant for the SUVs and at 100% growth achieved in 2015; it was the highest growing segment for us.”
Mr. Folger further added “The GLS is a distinguished and versatile SUV, as it performs effortlessly as a dynamic sports car, a luxurious cruiser or even a fully-fledged off-roader. The GLS indulges its occupants in an opulent ambience, and promises unsurpassed luxury experience that no other seven seater SUV can offer. The GLS has contributed to the success of our SUV portfolio in a significant way. India has also emerged as one of the top 10 markets for the GLS, globally. The GLS will be locally manufactured in our world-class production facility in Pune from its India launch. We are confident that the local production will make the GLS 350 d attractive for the eminent buyers with additional value propositions and increased availability. This is yet another illustration of our vision of ‘Make in India’, and gives us the opportunity to provide the newest products for our elite customers here.”
Quick Specs –
LWH – 5130 X 2141 X 1850 mm
Wheelbase – 3075 mm
Kerb Weight – 2455 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity – 100 litres (12 litres reserve)
0-100 km/h – 7.8 Secs
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