Leaked images published on a French forum have revealed the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class well ahead of its scheduled debut at next month’s Los Angeles Motor Show.
The GLS is to the outgoing GL what the GLE is to the ML; in other words, it’s a facelifted model that adopts Mercedes’ new naming structure. Up front, it benefits from a more modern look with bullet-shaped headlights, a sleeker hexagonal grille and a deep bumper with mesh air dams. More basic variants of the GLS will likely wear a less aggressive design.
The back end features new-look LED tail lamps, a redesigned lower bumper, and a revised roof-mounted spoiler. Finally, the GLS stands out from the GL thanks to new paint colors and alloy wheel designs.
Pictures of the interior weren’t leaked, but the GLS is expected to adopt an all-new infotainment system built around a high-resolution screen that sticks out from the center console, a setup already found in many members of the Mercedes lineup. Passengers will be able to navigate the infotainment system using a controller knob on the center console, buttons on the steering wheel or voice commands.
Whether the facelift will be accompanied by mechanical upgrades isn’t known at this point. Currently, the GL is offered with six- and eight-cylinder engines, and an AMG-tuned model with an immensely powerful V8 rounds out the lineup. All models come standard with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
Mercedes-Benz is expected to fully unveil the 2016 GLS-Class in the days leading up to this year’s Los Angeles Motor Show. The posh off-roader will go o sale across the nation early next year.
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