Mercedes to bring new GLS at Los Angeles Show

ABU DHABI: Mercedes-Benz is looking to expand its Maybach lineup with a luxury range-topper, coming in the form of a new GLS. The new generation (third) Maybach, Mercedes’ biggest SUV, is all set to debut at the upcoming 2018 Los Angeles Motor Show.

The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS has a unique grille up front with vertical slats. Apart from this, there are attractive elements like distinct badging, chrome detailing, and a unique set of wheels that might also accompany the soon to debut model.

However, the most significant change is seen in the cabin. And while saying so, there are chances that the new Maybach might leave behind the 7-seater layout and adopt a 5-seater or even a 6-seater Captain’s chair setting. And if this is the case, the cabin will be much more comfortable and roomy.

The Mercedes Maybach GLS is built on the company’s latest MHA (Modular High Architecture) platform, which has been extended a bit to replicate the dimensions of the BMW X7. There is a reasonable reduction in the kerb weight over the previous model.

The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS will get the name GLS 560 and is likely to get an exclusive AMG-developed V8 engine. The recently launched S560 has a V8 4.0-litre engine that makes 468 horsepower. This new motor will get a cylinder shut down function, which would help it save a lot of fuel while driving through the city.

Apart from the Maybach, even the AMG arm of Mercedes has been tremendously popular for the company as it grossed a global sales figure of 131,970 units last year (2017).

The Mercedes Maybach is considered to be a significant segment in the growth of the company as it looks to tame the rising demands of luxury cars. The luxury SUV sector presently sees a lot of competition in the form of the Land Rover Range Rover and the Bentley Bentayga. The Mercedes-Benz GLS, to be precise, also competes against the likes of the Land Rover Range Rover SVAutobiography and the class-exuding Rolls-Royce Cullinan.