This year’s Los Angeles Auto Show has proved particularly important for Mercedes-Benz as it is hosting the world debuts of the brand new GLS and the facelifted SL. The night before LA opened to the press, the German automaker held its customary media night where we got the chance to see the GLS and SL in the flesh for the first time.
Starting with the GLS, it is being labelled as the SUV equivalent of an S-Class and replaces the GL. Generally speaking, the design of the Mercedes-Benz GLS isn’t massively different than the GL which it replaces. Overall, the same shape of the GL has been maintained but as with other new Mercedes-Benz models, it has a more curvaceous design. For example, the revised front fascia now includes different headlights reflective of those from the C-Class and S-Class but beefed up to match the size of the GLS. Additionally, enlarged front air intakes are featured as is a different grille.
Different variations will be available throughout the world. They include the Mercedes-Benz GLS500 powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 outputting 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. In the United States, this model is badged the GLS550. Elsewhere in the range is the entry-level GLS450 complete with a 3.0-litre turbo V6 outputting 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, the same as other ‘450’ badged models in the Mercedes-AMG Sport line-up.
As for the facelifted Mercedes-Benz SL, it is available in the same guises as the outgoing model meaning the range consists of the SL400, SL500, SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG. The new car is different thanks to modified front and rear bumpers as well as new headlight and taillight units.
