Mercedes' new nomenclature policy is to badge its models depending on its base model – The A-class, B-class, C-class, E-class and S-class. In this respect, the GLS-class, the facelift of the current GL, is badged as the SUV equivalent to the S-class sedan.
A thinly veiled pre-production test mule spotted doing rounds on international roads seems to hint that the model is now close to production. As seen in the photographs, the front-end styling is more in tune with the new family design, with new headlamps and a new grille similar to the GLE. The front bumper has also been tweaked on the new SUV. At the rear, the tail-lamps have been revised, while the rear bumper has also been tweaked. The overall silhouette of the luxury SUV remains unchanged from the current car.
Inside, the cabin is also expected to get updates to a similar extent as the new GLE and GLE Coupe. As part of this update, Mercedes are expected to equip the model with a larger display for the COMAND system.
There are yet no details on the engines, but they are expected to be carried over from the current model.
The GLS-class is expected to go on sale internationally by 2015-end with its debut likely at hte Frankfurt motor show. Mercedes is also considering a Maybach model based on the GLS due in 2017, but with a longer wheelbase and a richer interior though there has been no confirmed decision yet.
In India, Mercedes is set to launch a slew of new models in the second half of 2015, with the company launching the S-class coupé in its S63 AMG and S 500 guise on July 30. Also expected later this year is the new GLE and the much-awaited AMG GT.
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