Our car market is packed with multiple products, and that includes some very spacious seven-seaters as well. Now while there are lots of SUVs that give you a third row, seven fully-grown adults still tend to be a squeeze, but not in the new third-generation model of the GLS. This is clearly the S-Class of SUVs, and we’re taking it out for a spin.
The Goliath
One look at this SUV, and you’re instantly dwarfed by its size. The wheelbase is really long, making it the biggest SUV from Mercedes-Benz cars. Even the older models were huge, but this one has definitely grown in size. It also has more legroom. It really does look handsome, this SUV. The new design language seems to work very well with all the right curves where you’d like them and of course, that towering stance. The short overhangs look good and the headlamps and tail lamps look sharp and distinctive. And there’s the enormous grille. The 21-inch wheels fit the car’s girth well and, by and large, it’s proportionately balanced.
A luxury liner
The cabin is just brilliant, with high levels of quality used. The twin 12.3-inch high-resolution screen dominate the dashboard and the overall design is very classy. It also features a 13-speaker Burmester audio system that sounds very good. It boasts of four central air vents and toggle-style switches. At the front, the seats are huge and legroom in the middle and last row is excellent.
At the wheel
Given its size, it is hard to drive in urban conditions. But you will be impressed by its refinement and just how quiet it is in the cabin. The 3.0-litre, inline-six petrol engine is remarkably smooth, and sometimes, has you believe it’s not turned on. It produces 362bhp and 500Nm of torque, and despite its heft, it sprints from 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds. The motor is super smooth and revs nicely; it’s also nice to drive, with good throttle response. The 9-speed gearbox works decently well, but does make does a fuss in the city.
Size matters?
The new GLS is definitely a massive, all-around SUV. It’s every bit an S-Class, but taller, and at a price of ₹99.9 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers its buyer way better value and practicality, something a lot of Indian will take to, considering the current trend of SUVs in India. It also scores brownie points in terms of refinement, space and comfort. Any other reason why you shouldn’t consider buying one? Also, read the latest car comparisons, only at autoX.