Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS made its live debut at the L.A. Auto Show about two months ago. Referred to as the "S-Class among SUVs," the GLS is a GL with a revised front fascia, interior, and other minor changes. It is offered in four trim levels: GLS350d, GLS450, GLS550, and AMG GLS63. The base GLS350d is powered by a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 rated at 255 horsepower and 457 foot-pounds of torque. The GLS450 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (intercooled DOHC 24-valve) rated at 362 horsepower and 369 foot-pounds of torque. The GLS550 contains a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 (intercooled DOHC 32-valve) churning out 449 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque. Lastly, the top-of-the-line AMG GLS63 contains a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 577 horses and 561 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the trim level, the GLS can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 7.4-4.7 seconds, and hit a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. All GLS models come standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic. As you would expect from a large premium SUV, the GLS weighs close to three tons. It can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. The cabin is crafted in leather and wood, and features an air ionization system, Mercedes-Benz's COMAND touchscreen, and more. Safety options include brake assist, cross-wind assist, and collision-prevention assist. Pricing for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS begins at approximately $66,000 for the GLS350d, $68,000 for the GLS450, $93,000 for the GLS550, and $123,000 for the AMG GLS63. The Mercedes-Benz GLS is one of my favorite SUVs; it is luxurious, quiet, and spacious. It also performs and handles very well. To be honest, I would have a difficult time deciding between this and a Cadillac Escalade. It would be very tough to argue that the GLS is the "S-Class among SUVs." Pictured below is the performance-oriented predecessor of the GLS, the GL63 AMG.