The new Mercedes GLS-Class isn’t scheduled to arrive in dealerships until 2019, but as early as now, we’re already seeing the luxurious people-mover making public rounds, albeit covered in heavy layers of camouflage. Just recently, YouTube channel walkoART captured the GLS-Class driving around the streets of Germany (the road signs are in German). The footage itself doesn’t reveal too much about the SUV, but we do get a good look at some important bits, including the LED headlights peaking from underneath the camo wraps.

Other than the headlights, the elevated hood is also noticeable, as is the thick cladding around the windows that are only there to hide the SUV’s body beneath. The taillights can also be seen from the back, same as the thicker-than-usual rear bumper. You’ll also notice how long the new GLS-Class looks. That’s largely due to Mercedes opting to use its new MHA platform for the SUV. It’s bigger, longer, and lighter than the current architecture, which means that there should be copious amounts of space inside. Since the GLS is marketed as a premium SUV, we can also expect Merc to go all-out on the tech and gadgetry. There are even whispers that the GLS stands to receive elements from Maybach to help it compete against the likes of other luxury SUVs in the market. Under the hood, the new GLS is tipped to carry a variety of engine options, including a 4.0-liter, Biturbo, V-8 and a hybrid setup that will make use of a 3.0-liter engine and a few electric motors.

All that said, don’t expect the new Mercedes GLS-Class to hit the streets soon. It could make its debut sometime in 2018, but the most likely scenario is a 2019 reveal, followed by the SUV going on sale a few months after that.

References

Mercedes-Benz CLS

Read our full review on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS.

Read our full driven review on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450.