Mercedes GLS 350d review, test drive

What is it?

The GLS name may be new, but this is essentially the facelifted version of the GL – Mercedes-Benz’s full- sized, seven-seat SUV. The new name is in line with Mercedes’ latest naming system for its SUVs. And you don’t have to look hard to tell that the styling, at least at the front, is also in keeping with the newer lot of Mercs with more curves and contours than before. Most notably, there’s a more rounded grille (replete with twin slats) as well as a gentler sweep to the now full LED (and adaptive) headlamps. A more stylized front bumper and shapely bonnet are other elements new to the GLS. Elsewhere, it’s the full LED tail-lamps and reprofiled rear bumper that distinguish the GLS from its predecessor. Small as the changes are, they do help wind back the clock on the big Merc.

And it is big. Over five metres long, the GLS is among the largest SUVs on sale in India. In fact, it’s longer, taller and wider than something like an Audi Q7 and this gives the GLS serious road presence.