GLS-Class SUV

Segment
SUV

It's been a couple of months since Mercedes lifted the wraps off the all-new 2020 GLS, and now pricing has finally been confirmed for the large luxury SUV. According to Mercedes, the new GLS 450 4MATIC starts at $75,200, plus a $995 destination charge. That makes it slightly more expensive than its main rival, the BMW X7, which starts at $73,900. It's also over $5,000 more expensive than the outgoing GLS 450 4Matic, which costs $70,150 excluding destination. To be fair though, the all-new model boasts more standard equipment, a new 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine, and new tech to justify the price increase.

Essentially the S-Class of SUVs, the all-new GLS is the largest and most luxurious SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. For the first time, the new generation GLS is available with a 6-seat option configuration that includes Captain's Chairs. This means there's now a choice of either a three-seat rear bench seat or two individual seats with armrests in the second row.

Included in the long list of standard features are a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch multimedia display with the new MBUX system replacing the old 7-inch infotainment screen with Mercedes'COMAND, a new- touchpad in the center console, and a new 64-Color Ambient Lighting system. The previous-generation GLS' most popular options are now standard. That includes the Premium Package, which added blind spot Assist, smartphone integration, navigation, satellite radio, multi-color ambient lighting and keyless entry, the Lighting Package, which included LED headlights and adaptive high beam assist, and the Parking Assist Package, which gave the SUV active parking assist and surround-view cameras.

Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC features a new in-line six-cylinder engine with 48-volt technology and an Integrated Starter Generator. The latter is responsible for hybrid functions such as EQ Boost and energy recuperation. The new six-cylinder produces 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a further 184 lb-ft of torque and 21 hp available via EQ Boost over short periods. We'll still have to wait for pricing details for the GLS 580, but the GLS 450 should arrive in US dealers by the end of the year.