2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS coming to India in 450 and 400 d variants
As you are probably aware already, the all-new, third-generation 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is scheduled for its India launch on June 15, 2020. Codenamed the X167 in Mercedes-Benz-speak, the new GLS packs in a host of new technologies, cleaner engines and new creature comfits and assists, as you expect of a flagship Mercedes-Benz. As the curtains lift on June 15, the GLS will begin its Indian innings with two variants - the GLS 450 petrol and the GLS 400 d diesel.
These variants replace the current V6 powered GLS 400 and 350d with higher output and cleaner emissions, thanks to a range of new 3.0l in-line six-cylinder engines. The engine in the GLS 450 is mated to an integrated starter generator which gives the drivetrain an additional 250Nm and 22PS under the pretext of the EQ Boost function, as and when there is a load on the engine. The combined output for the GLS 450 petrol is 362PS and 500Nm, which is good for a 5.9s 0-100kmph run.
The GLS 400 d, likely to be priced very attractively, misses out on the EQ boost function, but has a healthy 700Nm of torque at its disposal, with a power output 330PS. It will go a fairly quick 0-100kmph sprint of 6.3s with an electronically restricted top speed of 235kmph.
Electrically adjustable suspension in all four corners is standard across the range, but we expect the E-Active Body Control trickery to be exclusive to the GLS 450 - a move similar to what Mercedes-Benz India did with the GLE 450. What is the E-ABC all about, you ask? Check out the video review embedded below for more details. The review will also give you an idea of what to expect from the GLS 450 and 400 d variants headed our way. Expected to lie in the price range of Rs. 1.05 crore and going all the way up to Rs 1.35 crore, the GLS will chase the likes of the BMW X7 and the Range Rover Sport and with a tall claim that reads "The S-Class of premium SUVs," the 2020 GLS has plenty to prove and deliver on. We will only know on June 15, how much equipment it brings to India to take on its new-age rivals. Stay tuned.