2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Offers More Tech for the Money
The price goes up, but the new GLS features plenty of additional pluses.
Mercedes-Benz announced details and pricing on the new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 and it comes with a hefty price bump. With a starting price of $75,200, not including $995 in destination charges, that’s just over $5,000 more than the outgoing GLS 450. If you are willing to shell out the extra bucks, it does bring more technology and a longer list of standard equipment for customers.
There’s more new technology inside the new 2020 GLS, and it’s head and shoulders above the outgoing model. Added are two 12.3-inch screens, a digital instrument cluster, and an infotainment display, which take the place of the Comand 7.0-inch infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz brings a new informant system called “MBUX” that was introduced in the A-Class and continues its rollout throughout the German automaker’s stable. The interior can also be configured in standard trim as a six-seater with captain’s chairs for a bit more comfort for rear seat passengers.
The new GLS comes with more tech under the hood, too. Powered by Mercedes-Benz’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that features a hybrid-assist system, it replaces the GLS450’s twin-turbo V-6. The new 3.0-liter inline six cylinder engine produces 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, which is the same as the previous-generation twin-turbo V6.
The new technology brings the brand’s EQ Boost mild hybrid system that the automaker says will improve both efficiency and power delivery. It’s coupled with the same nine-speed automatic as the previous model, sending power to all four wheels. Mercedes says the new GLS 450 can launch from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, about a half-second quicker than its predecessor.
Also See: Mercedes-Benz GLS Grand Edition: At a Glance
More technology shows up in a new intelligent chassis using the SUV’s hybrid system. It can now change its active suspension allowing for increased movement delivering a smoother ride on broken pavement and adapting to changing off-road conditions.
We don’t know how many owners will be taking the new SUV off-road, but the unique E-Active Body Control will get you unstuck from deep sand or mud. This option won’t come cheap and will likely cost around $8,000. Check out the video below from Air Car to see how it raises up and down, bouncing itself to help the driver get unstuck.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4Matic will begin arriving in showrooms by the end of the year. Pricing for the new GLS 580 will be announced at a later date.