When you think Mercedes-Benz in the Indian context, models like the C-Class and E-Class are usually the first to come to mind — the familiar faces that embody the brand’s luxury DNA. But towering above them all, both in stature and presence , is the GLS. Long referred to as the “S-Class of SUVs,” it represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s sport utility lineup — a blend of technology, space, and refinement that’s hard to rival.
AMG Line styling, reprofiled aprons, and 21-inch alloy wheels give the GLS a bold and elegant stance on the road.
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Now in its 2025 guise, the GLS 450d AMG Line brings more than just size to the table. It is sharper to look at, smarter inside, and even more comfortable to be driven in. With AMG styling elements, a robust diesel heart, a cabin steeped in tech, and a second-row experience fit for executives, the GLS aims squarely at those who value time, space, and silence over the thrill of driving fast.
Design & Presence: The gentle giant
The GLS commands attention the moment it appears in your rear-view mirror. Stretching over 5.2 metres in length, it’s longer than many pickup trucks, yet Mercedes has shaped it with remarkable elegance. The proportions are balanced, the lines clean, and the stance imposing without ever feeling ungainly.
The AMG Line package elevates its appeal with a bolder grille, reprofiled aprons, and massive 21-inch alloy wheels that fill the arches perfectly. Opting for the Night Package adds an extra layer of menace — gloss-black accents on the grille, roof rails, and trim lend the SUV a stealthy, almost “Darth Vader’s daily driver” persona. Despite its size, the GLS never feels ostentatious. Park it anywhere, and it becomes the dominant visual presence, effortlessly reminding you why it sits at the top of the Mercedes SUV hierarchy.
Behind the Wheel: Power, composure, and surprising ease
Slip behind the wheel and the GLS immediately impresses with its effortless usability. It may appear intimidating, but once you are behind that large steering wheel, it all feels so easy.
That sense of ease stems from its powertrain — a 3.0-litre inline-six diesel paired with a mild-hybrid system that together deliver 367 hp and a staggering 750 Nm of torque. Power delivery is smooth and confident, with enough shove to move this 2.5-tonne luxury SUV from 0–100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds. Those are hot-hatch numbers in a seven-seater built for comfort. On the move, the AIRMATIC suspension is the star of the show. It soaks up potholes, ruts, and broken tarmac with poise, making the GLS feel as though it is gliding over the road rather than driving on it. Yet, when pushed, it maintains composure, keeping body movements in check. The result is a sense of balance — an SUV that is serene most of the time but never sloppy when you ask more of it.
Inside, the cabin blends craftsmanship and technology, featuring dual 12.3-inch MBUX screens, premium Artico leather, and thoughtful connectivity options.
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Compared to its closest rival, the BMW X7, the GLS has closed the gap in terms of driving dynamics. The X7 still feels more athletic and driver-focused, but the GLS counters with refinement and calm. It’s less about slicing through corners and more about making every kilometre effortless.
Cabin & Comfort: A study in silence
Open the door, settle in, and close it. Instantly, the outside world disappears. Mercedes has gone to great lengths to insulate the GLS from noise, using acoustic glass and extensive damping materials. The result is near-total isolation — traffic sounds, rain, even tyre roar are kept at bay.
This serene environment is perfectly complimented with the Burmester surround sound system featuring Dolby Atmos. Turn up your favourite playlist, and the cabin transforms into a private concert hall. It is one of those details that make long drives feel indulgent rather than tiring.
The interior itself is a showcase of craftsmanship and technology. The AMG touches are subtle but effective — a supersport steering wheel, brushed steel pedals, and premium Artico leather upholstery add a touch of sportiness to an otherwise opulent space. Dual 12.3-inch MBUX screens dominate the dash, seamlessly blending information and entertainment. Wireless charging pads, including one for rear passengers, and high-speed 100W USB-C ports highlight how thoroughly thought-out the cabin experience is.
Rear-Seat Experience: The Real Luxury
) The GLS is not just about the driver’s experience. In fact, it is primarily about those who prefer to be driven. The second row is where Mercedes truly truly outshines its competitors.
On the move, the 3.0-litre diesel with mild-hybrid system and AIRMATIC suspension ensures effortless cruising, combining power, comfort, and serene refinement.
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With the optional chauffeur package, the rear seats transform into business-class lounges — featuring reclining functionality, soft pillow-style headrests, and electric sunblinds for privacy. Legroom is generous, and the sense of space is enhanced by the panoramic sunroof and meticulous cabin lighting
Rear passengers also get dual 11.6-inch entertainment screens and a removable MBUX tablet that allows full control of media, navigation, and climate functions. Combined with five-zone climate control and ventilated, heated seats, the GLS offers an experience that rivals the comfort of the S-Class — but with an even higher vantage point.
Technology & Safety: Intelligence with intent
Being the flagship SUV, the GLS 450d AMG Line packs every modern technology Mercedes has to offer. The twin MBUX screens run the latest software, offering crisp graphics and a highly intuitive interface. The feature list reads like a tech enthusiast’s wish list: a 360-degree camera system, wireless smartphone charging in both rows, KEYLESS-GO with hands-free tailgate operation, and nine airbags.
The rear seats, especially with the optional chauffeur package, transform into business-class lounges with reclining functionality, sunblinds, and dual entertainment screens.
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The SUV also gets Level 2 ADAS functions, including lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The PRE-SAFE system takes things a step further by preparing the cabin for a potential impact — tightening seatbelts and adjusting seat positions to minimise injury. It is this quiet layer of intelligence that underscores the GLS’s appeal — you do not always see it working, but you always know it is there.
GLS vs BMW X7: Different philosophies of luxury
At this level, the question is not about which SUV is better built or better equipped — both the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS deliver excellence in their own ways. The difference lies in their philosophy. The X7 continues to be the choice for those who enjoy driving. It is sharper, more dynamic, and offers an engaging experience behind the wheel. The GLS, in contrast, leans into what it does best — providing supreme comfort, refinement, and a sense of calm that the BMW cannot quite replicate. If you see yourself in the rear seat more often than the driver’s, the GLS is your clear choice.
Verdict: The benchmark of aArrival
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d AMG Line is a masterclass in understated luxury. It is for those who do not need to prove anything anymore — those who value comfort, silence, and the sheer ease of motion that comes with a vehicle of this calibre. It is as effortless to drive as it is to be driven in, and that duality is what makes it truly special. Think of it not as a mode of transport, but as a statement — one that says you have arrived, both literally and figuratively.
Price (Ex-showroom, India): ₹1.32 crore
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