Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS in India is expected to be offered with powerful and refined petrol and diesel engine options, likely incorporating 48V mild-hybrid technology for enhanced efficiency and smoother operation. The petrol variant, such as the GLS 450, is typically powered by a 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged engine producing around 381 PS of power and 500 Nm of torque. 

The diesel variant, like the GLS 400d, is expected to feature a 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged diesel engine producing around 330 PS of power and 700 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with a smooth and quick-shifting 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. 

The mild-hybrid system provides a small electric boost and improves the start/stop system. Performance is effortless and strong, befitting a luxury flagship, with smooth acceleration and comfortable high-speed cruising. Real-world fuel efficiency is reasonable for the segment, aided by the mild-hybrid tech. All-wheel drive (4MATIC) is standard.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS prioritizes an exceptionally comfortable and serene ride quality, designed to isolate occupants from road imperfections. It comes standard with AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System Plus, which constantly adjusts to provide a smooth and plush ride, effectively gliding over uneven surfaces. The cabin is exceptionally well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise for a tranquil experience.

Despite its size and focus on comfort, the GLS handles with composure and stability. The steering is light and precise at low speeds, making city maneuvering easier, and gains weight at higher speeds for stability. 

Body roll is well-controlled for a vehicle of this stature. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip and stability. While not a sports SUV, it offers confident and predictable handling, prioritizing comfort and refinement over sporty dynamics.

The interior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a masterclass in luxury and comfort, designed to provide a first-class experience for up to seven occupants. The cabin is crafted with the finest materials, including premium leather upholstery, exquisite wood or metallic trims, and soft-touch surfaces throughout.

 The dashboard is dominated by the large, integrated MBUX widescreen cockpit, which houses the digital instrument cluster and central touchscreen.

Seating comfort is exceptional in the first two rows, with ample head, shoulder, and legroom. The third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter journeys, offering better space than many rivals, and features its own climate control vents and USB ports. Access to the third row is facilitated by electrically folding second-row seats. 

Cargo space is practical, starting at around 355 litres with all three rows up, expanding significantly when the rear seats are folded down. Features like multi-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof enhance the luxurious ambiance.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS is powered by the advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, displayed on a large, integrated widescreen cockpit. 

This typically consists of two 12.3-inch displays (digital instrument cluster and central touchscreen) seamlessly integrated under a single glass panel. The system is highly intuitive, responsive, and features stunning high-resolution graphics.

Control inputs include the touchscreen, a touchpad on the center console, touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel, and advanced "Hey Mercedes" voice control. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated navigation with augmented reality view, and a comprehensive suite of Mercedes me connect services.

 A premium sound system, such as a Burmester® surround sound system, is available on higher variants, providing exceptional audio quality. Rear-seat entertainment screens are also optional.

The exterior design of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS is imposing and elegant, reflecting its status as a flagship luxury SUV. It features a large, upright grille with prominent Mercedes-Benz star, flanked by sophisticated LED headlamps with distinctive daytime running light signatures. The bonnet is sculpted, and the overall proportions are balanced, conveying a sense of power and luxury.

From the side, the GLS showcases its substantial length and tall, upright profile, which is essential for maximizing interior space, particularly in the third row. Large alloy wheels, typically 20-inch or larger on higher variants, fill the wheel arches. 

The rear features elegant LED taillights with internal graphics and a redesigned bumper. Key dimensions are significant, including a length of around 5209 mm, a width of 1956 mm (excluding mirrors), and a height of 1823 mm. The wheelbase is a generous 3135 mm, directly benefiting interior room. Ground clearance is adjustable thanks to the standard air suspension.

Safety is a paramount concern for a flagship luxury SUV like the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS, and it is built on a highly rigid platform designed for maximum occupant protection. The current generation GLS has received excellent safety ratings from international bodies. 

While a specific BNCAP or the latest Global NCAP ratings for the 2025 model might be pending, the GLS's structure and extensive safety features are designed to provide a very high level of protection.

Standard safety equipment is comprehensive and includes multiple airbags (likely 9 or more), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Traction Control.

 A wide array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is available, potentially including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, active steering assist, lane keeping assist, blind-spot assist, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and automated parking assist. Features like a 360-degree camera system are standard, aiding in maneuvering this large vehicle.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS competes in the exclusive ultra-luxury SUV segment in India. Its primary rivals include the BMW X7, which offers a blend of luxury, technology, and dynamic capability; the Land Rover Range Rover, which provides unparalleled luxury and off-road prowess; and potentially high-end variants of the Audi Q7 (though slightly smaller). 

The Mercedes-Benz GLS differentiates itself with its ultimate focus on passenger comfort, particularly its genuinely spacious third row, and its sophisticated, technology-rich interior. While the X7 offers a sportier edge and the Range Rover unmatched off-road ability, the GLS appeals to buyers who seek the highest levels of luxury, space, and refinement in a traditional large SUV package. Its pricing is competitive within this elite segment.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS continues to be a benchmark for luxury SUVs in India, offering an unparalleled combination of space, comfort, and technology. It successfully blends a commanding exterior presence with a sumptuously appointed and highly functional three-row interior. 

The powerful and refined engine options, likely with mild-hybrid assistance, ensure effortless performance, while the standard air suspension provides an exceptionally comfortable ride.

For buyers in India who need a spacious vehicle with genuine three-row seating capability, uncompromising luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS is an excellent choice. Its focus on passenger comfort and its position as the "S-Class of SUVs" make it a very desirable option in the ultra-luxury segment.

 While it faces strong competition, the GLS's blend of space, comfort, and Mercedes-Benz prestige makes it a top contender. Both petrol and diesel variants offer capable and refined performance.