The Mercedes-Benz GLS has arrived inSouth Africa! See local specification and pricing details for the GLS below…

The Mercedes-Benz designates its GLS as an off-road capable"S-Class of SUVs". We'll hopefully be putting thatclaim to the test, very soon.

Engine Power

The new GLS arrives in SA with 2 engine choices on offer!

Local buyers have the choice of 2 GLS derivatives. The GLS 400d is powered by a 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight-6 motor, which produces 243 kW and 700 Nm. Power goes to all 4 wheels via the 9G-tronic automatic transmission. In GLS 580 guise, it gains a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with EQ Boost hybrid technology, producing 360kW (+16 kW from the EQ system) and 700 Nm. It too features all-wheel drive and a 9-speed automatic transmission.

For what it's worth, the GLS 400d claims a zero to 100 kph sprint time in 6.3 seconds while the GLS 580 is quicker with a claimed time of 4.7 seconds.

A range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is expected to arrive later with 450 kW and 850 Nm on offer from its4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine with a claimed4.2 seconds in the dash from zero to 100 kph.

“The GLS combines modern luxury with the character of an off-roader,” says Selvin Govender, Marketing Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa. “It combines powerful highlights of off-road design & capability with an elegance reminiscent of a classic luxury sedan. The interior is a synthesis of modern, luxurious aesthetics, hallmark SUV practicality, and digital high-tech. It’s the best of all worlds.”

Key Features

The GLS offers the latest tech that Mercedes-Benz has to offer.

Standard wheels are 19-inch units, but you can go up to 21-inch alloys. For those wanting to beef up the look of the GLS you can opt for theAMG Line package (R62 000). For bolt-on MBUX enhancement, you're looking at R25 000 for the Innovation package, while semi-autonomous driving tech is available with 2 packages of R42 000 and R37 300. If you really want to try out the offroad capabilities, it's best to tick the OffRoad Engineering Package for R32 300. Enhanced air suspension with adaptive damping is fitted as standard.

The GLS can also be equipped with Active Distance Assist Distronic with route-based speed adaptation which recognises and responds to traffic tailbacks before the driver becomes aware of them and slows the vehicle to 100 kph as a precaution. Once the tailback is clear, the GLS will then accelerate back up to the preset speed. For buyers who will be towing trailers, the GLS can also be equipped with Trailer Manoeuvring Assist.

With a 60mm increase in wheelbase over its predecessor, the GLS offers generous space for rear occupants All 3 seat rows are electrically adjustable and the third row can be lowered into the floor to increase loading space up to 2 400 litres. The optionalRear Comfort Package adds luxury head restraints as well as a removable 7-inch Android tablet with its own docking station as well as a wireless charging station. The package also includes five-zone automatic climate control for the rear seats.

For even higher levels of luxury, buyers can also consider the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 which is also available in South Africa.

Mercedes-Benz GLS Price in South Africa (November 2020)

Mercedes-Benz GLS 400d – R1 842 000

Mercedes-Benz GLS 580– R2 025 000

Further Reading:

New Mercedes-Benz GLS – Counters X7

Mercedes-Benz GLS 500 (2016) Review