It has only been two model years since the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GL-Class went on sale, but in addition to a new name, the full-size->ke4304 SUV->ke145 is getting an updated look inside and out. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS, as it is called starting 2015, has been renamed to create a more coherent naming structure across the lineup (after the GLA,->ke4658 GLC->ke4968 and GLE),->ke4971 and as the name suggests, the GLS->ke3886 will stand as the S-Class->ke359 of SUVs. No small shoes to fill there.

Even though it will hit dealerships with a new name, the GLS isn't a brand-new SUV, but a revised version of the second-generation GL-Class. As with most Mercedes-Benz facelifts, updates aren't massive, but the GSL received just enough features to keep it fresh for a few more years. Besides the revised exterior features, the full-size hauled also gained an overhauled interior and upgraded drivetrains.

The seven-seater will hit U.S. dealerships in 2016 in four engine specs, including a diesel version and a performance-oriented AMG variant.

Updated 11/20/2015: The 2017 Mercedes GLS made its world debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show and will be put on sale on the North American market in March 2016. Check out the picture gallery for a set of new images taken live on the show's floor.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
• Engine/Motor: V6
• Horsepower: 362
• Torque: 369
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Pros

Cons

Exterior

After revealing the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE earlier this year, Stuttgart virtually gave away what the new GLS will look like. Since it was introduced in 2007, the GL has essentially stood as the stretched, three-row version of the M-Class (now the GLE) with almost identical design. These official photos confirm that the same holds true for the GLE and GLS, as the changes are almost identical, especially at the front.

Specifically, the SUV now sports a more aggressive bumper with larger air intakes on the sides. Depending on trim, it also gets the same wavy insert seen on the GLE. The grille's upper edges have been refined for a sharper look, while the headlamps feature new clusters and LED strips.

The facelifted SUV continues to benefit from Mercedes' numerous customizing features and packages. The Sport exterior, available on the GLS550, adds more muscular front and rear aprons, body-colored side flaps, and 21-inch AMG wheels. By selecting the Night Package, customers will get an AMG-style grille and an array of black-painted parts, including the mirror caps and the window trim.

Better individualization can be achieved by ways of Designo paints such as Diamond White or Cardinal Red, and the comprehensive range of new wheel designs.

Exterior Dimensions

Interior

More changes are visible inside the cabin, where Mercedes added a new three-spoke steering wheel in Nappa leather, an instrument panel with Media Display, and a center console with touchpad control. The ambient lighting comes in three color shades and Mercedes now offers an available air ionization system.

Connectivity and infotainment are provided by the company's latest generation of Comand Online, which includes an eight-inch color display and an intuitive touchpad. The optional "Mercedes connect me" service adds the Standard Services package with automatic emergency call, Accident Recovery and breakdown assistance, and after-sales service. There's also the Remote Online services, which allow access to vehicle information from anywhere at all times, including the status of windows and doors, mileage, and tire pressure.

Those looking for a bit of exclusivity can choose between trim elements in Black Piano Lacquer or a variety of woods, as well as five leather upholstery color combos in Black, Ginger Beige/Espresso Brown, Saddle Brown/Black, Crystal Grey/Black, or Ginger Beige/Black. There's also a Designo Exclusive package with heated front seats, Nappa leather, and diamond quilting. For the first time, the GLS gets an AMG Line interior with sports seats in Exclusive Nappa leather, a sports steering wheel in black Exclusive Nappa leather, instrument dials in a Checkered flag look, and brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs.

Legroom, headroom, and shoulder room remained unchanged with the facelift, but that's far from bad news, as the second-generation GL was know to boast an outstanding level or roominess in all three seat rows.

Drivetrain

Four drivetrain will be offered in the U.S., beginning with the biturbo, 3.0-liter V-6 in the GLS450 4Matic. The unit produces 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 rpm and comes with a start-stop function.

Next in line is the GLS550 4Matic with a turbocharged V-8 rated at 455 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, 20 ponies more than the outgoing model.

Finally, the range-topping gasoline model is the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 motivated by a V-8 generating 577 horsepower and 561 pound-feet from just 1,750 rpm. The updated unit cranks out 27 extra horses compared to the previous version.

In the diesel department, Mercedes offers the GSL350d 4Matic, powered by the company's familiar turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6. The oil burner generates 255 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, a 15 horsepower improvement over the GL350 BlueTEC it replaces.

All non AMG versions are equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission, 4Matic all-wheel drive, and an updated air suspension with enhanced damping. The AMG GLS63, on the other hand, comes with a seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox and a Sport+ setting instead of the Off-Road mode.

Safety

One of the safest full-size SUVs on the market as of 2015, the GLS is equipped with numerous standard driver assistance features, including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist, Pre-Safe, Brake Assist, ESP, and cruise control among others. The optional Driver Assistance Package adds Distroic Plus with Steering Assist, pedestrian detection, Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Sport Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Speed Limit Assist.

For the first time, the GLS also gets LED Intelligent Light System for improved night-time vision. Customers can also opt for the Magic Vision Control system with the heated adaptive windscreen wiper.

As for airbags, the SUV features adaptive, two-stage units for driver and front passenger, knee airbag for the driver and front passenger, and window airbags for all three seat rows.

Prices

Pricing shouldn’t vary too much from the 2015 GL-Class, which ranges from $63,600 for the GL350 BlueTec up to $119,450 for the GL63 AMG. Of course, a potential GLS63 AMG S would increase the price even more, and if and when the Mercedes-Maybach GLS arrives, such a model would likely be priced much closer to the $200,000 mark.

Competition

2015 Cadillac Escalade

When it comes to full-size luxury SUVs, the Cadillac Escalade->ke245 is still the top dog in terms of sales, but the GL-Class definitely has the upper hand in terms of pricing and available models. The 2015 Cadillac Escalade is offered with just one powertrain, while the current GL has four, including the 550-horsepower AMG model. But unlike the Mercedes (or any other similarly sized luxury SUV), the Escalade is available in two wheelbases, providing maximum interior space with the extended-length ESV model.

Read our full review of the 2015 Cadillac Escalade here.

2016 Audi Q7

Until the BMW X7->ke3218 comes along, the all-new 2016 Audi Q7 might be the closest rival to the GLS in terms of model variety. In addition to the standard gasoline and diesel variants, the next-gen Q7->ke1083 will also add a high-performance RS Q7 (to go up against the GLS63 AMG) as well as two plug-in hybrid models. The understated exterior might be the biggest downfall of the 2016 Audi Q7, as it comes off looking more like a big station wagon than a luxury SUV. In the styling department, the new GLS-Class should definitely outdo the Audi.->ke14

Read our full review of the 2016 Audi Q7 here.

Conclusion

Although Mercedes has some tough competition in the new Cadillac Escalade and Audi Q7, the revised and renamed 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS won’t go down without a fight. Mercedes-Benz is hard at work shaking up its entire lineup, and the new GLS is one of the most important introductions. Along with the GLE, the GLS is built at Mercedes’ Tuscaloosa, Alabama assembly plant, and these two models stand as the core of the automaker’s growing SUV lineup.

Updated History

Updated 11/04/2015: Mercedes dropped the official information on the 2017 GLS.

Spy Shots

May 21, 20015 - Mercedes GLS doing calibration work in the western U.S.