Mercedes-Benz GLS, (X 166), FL 2015The Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV will be launched in India on May 18, 2016. The GLS is essentially the facelifted GL which now gets the company’s new nomenclature.

The exterior gets styling updates in tune with the Merc’s new design language. There are new front and rear bumpers, a larger twin slat front grille along with new headlamps with integrated DRLs and tail lamps, which get different graphics and new design alloy wheels.

Coming to the interior, significant changes include a free standing 8 inch tab like screen for the infotainment system along with touch pad, three spoke steering wheel. The GLS will also be offered with an air ionization system as an option.

Mechanically, the GLS is expected to be powered by the same 3.0 V6 diesel motor as the outgoing model but will come with the new nine speed automatic gearbox.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS will rival the Audi Q7 and the Range Rover in the Indian market. The Mercedes-Benz GLS will be the flagship SUV for the German car maker.