Mercedes-Benz GLS – new flagship SUV leaked online

Weeks ahead of its planned debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, several photos of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS have leaked online. Brochure snaps of the facelifted flagship SUV that was previously known as the GL-Class were first spotted on Worldscoop forums.

For now, just three images of the GL’s replacement have been revealed – thankfully in all the right angles to make this our best look at the car since all the spyshots we’ve brought you. Clearly visible is the new front grille, front bumper and headlamp designs. Around the rear, the treatment is equally in line with Merc’ latest models, with new tail light graphics and a reworked rear bumper.

No interior photos so far, but given the fact that Mercedes-Benz traditionally reproduces similar cabins for its ML (renamed to become GLE) and GL (renamed to become GLS) models, it wouldn’t surprise us too much to see the new GLS adopt much of what we’ve already seen on the new GLE — free-standing central display screen, COMAND Online infotainment system with a rotary dial and touchpad, a banging audio system, premium upholstery, seats fit for seven and more.

For power, the flagship GLS SUV isn’t expected to stray too far from its current engine line-up, but with minor performance and efficiency tweaks. The GLS 350d with a 3.0 litre twin-turbodiesel V6 is expected to deliver 258 PS/620 Nm, while a GLS 400 petrol variant should be in line to offer a 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6 with up to 333 PS and 480 Nm. A 435 PS/700 Nm GLS 500 can be expected as well.

AMG versions of the GLS are equally on the cards, delivering up to 585 PS. On the side of fuel efficiency, it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see a GLS 500e plug-in hybrid model become available soon.

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