The front end of the new GLS exudes presence and power. This is ensured by the nearly upright radiator grille in an octagonal SUV interpretation, the prominent, chromed skid plate in the front apron with the bone-shaped air inlet grille, and the bonnet with two powerdomes. The black plastic elements of the grille feature a diamond-shaped pattern as a reference to the off-road character.

The new side design elegantly expresses the generous proportions of the new dimensional concept. Strong, defining features include the elongated bonnet, muscular shoulders and stretched-out feature line running above them.

The appearance, which is dominant and luxurious at the same time, is continued in the new rear-end design. The pronounced shoulders and two-piece tail lights significantly underscore the impressive sense of width. Chrome elements also create high-quality accents in the rear view.

The high centre console with grab handles underscores the off-road character of the interior. This is elegantly rounded off with extensive wood trim, flowing leather surfaces and a flush retractable cover. Additionally, this is where the key controls are located, depending on equipment.

The basis for the high structural safety comes courtesy of the bodyshell elements made of ultra-high-strength sheet steel and aluminium components. A decisive element in the development of the new body structure was the fact that full account was taken of the 3rd seat row. Compared with the preceding model, it has been possible to significantly increase the rigidity of the occupant cell even further. For customers, the rigid body and reduced weight result in advantages in terms of safety, driving dynamics and noise comfort.

The GLS comes with the enhanced AIRMATIC air suspension system with Adaptive Damping System Plus fitted as standard. This setup uses highly complex sensor systems and algorithms to adapt the damping characteristics to the road condition and driving situation in real time. All components have been enhanced compared with the previous generation, and the wheel suspension mountings have been optimised to maximise ride comfort. In addition to this, the air suspension keeps the car at the same level, regardless of the load on board.

In addition to its on-road qualities, the GLS also features superior off-road capabilities. With 4MATIC all-wheel drive, differential lock and special off-road drive programmes, it impresses equally in both easy and difficult terrain. For off-road use, the underbody has been redeveloped and reinforced in stressed areas to protect the engine compartment against wet and damage. At the press of a button, the media display transforms into an off-road screen and depicts the specific settings.

As the GLE, the new GLS sets lighting standards in the SUV segment. The GLS has MULTIBEAM LED headlamps as standard (depending on the market), with a total of 112 LEDs per headlamp. During the day, the three-part integrated daytime running lights provide a subtle hint to the S-Class status of the GLS. At night, the efficient, bright and durable technology provides excellent illumination in front of the vehicle on and off the road.

The Parking package with reversing camera combines Active Parking Assist with a reversing camera in the boot lid. Its image is shown with superimposed guide lines in the media display. The GLS is equipped with a reversing camera as standard.