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In the realm of luxury automobiles, where opulence often intertwines with notoriety, one distinguished model has persistently lingered in the shadows of its more illustrious sibling—the resounding G-Wagen. The Mercedes-Benz GLS, with its understated sophistication, has frequently played second fiddle to the bold charisma of the G-Wagen in the Indian automotive landscape. However, unbeknownst to many, the GLS, particularly in its Maybach guise, has quietly become the vehicular epitome for industry titans and celebrities alike, transcending the mere status of a car to embody a symbol of affluence and prestige.

While the Maybach-clad GLS commands the spotlight among the elite, the unadorned GLS 450 4Matic, despite its ubiquity, often slips under the radar. It’s time to unravel the mystique surrounding this premium luxury SUV and explore the enhancements gracing the 2024 iteration. As we dissect the intricacies of the updated GLS 450, we delve into what sets this unassuming powerhouse apart, reaffirming its relevance in a market that tends to be enamoured by flashier counterparts. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the nuances and novelties that make the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4Matic a compelling contender in the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS doesn’t settle for a mere facelift – it makes a definitive statement. Fusing refinement with robust capability, it emerges as the quintessential choice for city ventures and off-road retreats alike. Commanding attention, the larger grille, adorned with an intricate diamond pattern, exudes confidence. The restyled headlights adopt a sharper, more assertive look, complemented by a subtly redesigned bumper with wider air intakes, hinting at the upgraded engine’s prowess. The side profile, characterized by a Mercedes Design theme of simplicity, radiates elegance without sharp lines, while new alloy wheel designs inject personality. Chrome accents along the window line and roof rails underscore the vehicle’s upscale aura. The rear receives a notable refresh, featuring sleeker, horizontally designed taillights connected by a subtle chrome bar, emphasizing the car’s width.

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Stepping into the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 transcends the realm of a mere car—it’s an immersive experience. The cabin, a sanctuary of luxury, greets you with soft ambient lighting, setting the tone for something extraordinary.

Inside, the GLS unfolds an incredibly spacious interior, complemented by a panoramic sunroof that bathes the space in natural light. Crafted with premium materials like supple Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, it exudes warmth and opulence. The seats, a pinnacle of comfort, offer adjustable bolsters, massage functions, and heating/ventilation, cocooning you in personalized luxury.

Technology seamlessly integrates into the design, with dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. This creates a futuristic panorama, providing intuitive control over navigation, climate, and entertainment. The Burmester surround sound system transforms the cabin into a concert hall, while ambient lighting lets you tailor the mood with a spectrum of colors.

The second row isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a first-class experience in itself and most India buyers will spend their time here. The seats offer individual reclining controls, ample legroom, and even their own infotainment screens which can be controlled via a small table located in the rear seat armrest. The third row isn’t just for show either; it provides comfortable seating for two adults and inspite of having the third row upright, there is ample of boot space.

Beyond its features, the GLS cabin is an emotional experience, making you feel valued, pampered, and in control. It’s not just a collection of amenities; it’s the S-Class of SUVs.

Beneath the opulent surface of the GLS 450 lies a hidden powerhouse. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, coupled with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) mild-hybrid system, delivers a robust 375.486bhp and 50.98 kgm of torque. The acceleration from 0 to 100 kph takes a mere 6.2 seconds, aided by the EQ Boost’s extra 21 bhp during bursts.

The EQ Boost not only enhances acceleration but also contributes to energy recovery during braking, improving fuel efficiency. In our brief experience, the GLS showcased an impressive 9 kpl in the city and 12 kpl on the highway, a remarkable feat for a vehicle of its size and power.

Mated to a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, the GLS ensures seamless shifts, preserving the cabin’s tranquil ambiance. The transmission adapts intuitively to different driving scenarios, effortlessly navigating city streets and highways alike.

Yet, the GLS 450’s performance goes beyond numbers, focusing on delivering an exhilarating and graceful driving experience. The Airmatic suspension dynamically adjusts to diverse terrains, providing a smooth ride over potholes and confident handling on twisty roads. The DYNAMIC SELECT system lets you customize the driving experience, transitioning from “Comfort” for serene cruising.

The GLS 450 boasts 4MATIC all-wheel drive for optimal traction in any weather or terrain. Whether tackling snowy mountain passes or sandy beaches, this system ensures constant control.

Picture a ride where potholes go unnoticed, curves are a breeze, and city streets are effortlessly navigated – that defines the GLS 450 experience. The AIRMATIC air suspension, a standard feature, adapts seamlessly to terrain and driving style, absorbing bumps for a smooth ride. In Mumbai’s pothole-laden streets, the GLS effortlessly glided over imperfections.

Despite its size, maneuvering the GLS 450 in tight spaces is surprisingly intuitive, thanks to well-judged dimensions and smart parking sensors. The 360-degree camera enhances visibility, making challenging parking situations a breeze.

The GLS 450 offers a refined driving experience, creating a strong emotional connection with occupants. With a powerful engine featuring EQ Boost and a seamless 9-speed automatic transmission, it balances power and efficiency. Priced at Rs 1.3 crore (ex-showroom), it competes fiercely in the luxury SUV segment against rivals like BMW X7, Audi Q7, and Range Rover. The GLS 450 stands out with its distinctive design, top-tier interior quality, and a comprehensive feature set, justifying its premium cost.