Mercedes-Benz GLS

The GLS is full-size, seven-seat SUV on offer by Mercedes-Benz, now in its third generation, which has brought ...

The GLS is full-size, seven-seat SUV on offer by Mercedes-Benz, now in its third generation, which has brought with it more space, luxury and tech. The model is available in India with a choice of in-line six-cylinder powertrains, the 330hp GLS 400d diesel and the 367hp GLS 450 petrol, which is helped along by a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The mammoth Mercedes GLS has a few seven-seat rivals in India, like the BMW X7, Volvo XC90 and the Land Rover Discovery.

With this latest GLS, Mercedes-Benz has come closer than ever to achieving its goal of creating the 'S clas...

With this latest GLS, Mercedes-Benz has come closer than ever to achieving its goal of creating the 'S class of SUVs'. It offers vast space as always (although curiously, the third row isn't quite as spacious as the previous car) and now the luxury quotient has been upped significantly. There's loads more tech too, all based around Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system, and its two new straight-six engines provide the sort of effortless performance you'd expect. The ride can feel a bit fidgety on those large, 21-inch wheels though. The real attraction of the GLS, however, is its vast size and the commanding road presence that brings, and that has only been enhanced this time around.

While the petrol variant, the 450, is impressively refined and has a neat trick up its sleeve in the form of mi...

While the petrol variant, the 450, is impressively refined and has a neat trick up its sleeve in the form of mild-hybrid assistance, for a big SUV like this, what you really want is diesel power. Merc's new OM656 straight-six diesel is one of the best around, offering effortless performance and a surprising amount of refinement too (not to mention the obvious benefits in fuel economy). Particularly if you enjoy hauling your family and their luggage up into the hills for the weekend, the GLS 400d has to be the variant of choice for you.