The Mercedes-Benz GLS has long been recognized for its seamless blend of luxury, comfort, dynamic performance, and advanced safety features. For 2018, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new pinnacle of refinement: the GLS Grand Edition. This exclusive edition, available for both the GLS450 4MATIC and GLS550 4MATIC SUV models, elevates the GLS experience with unique interior and exterior enhancements, promising an even more opulent and sophisticated driving experience. The GLS Grand Edition made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2018, and subsequently arrived at U.S. dealerships in mid-2018, captivating luxury SUV enthusiasts.
The defining characteristic of the Grand Edition lies in its meticulously crafted details, both inside and out. Stepping into the cabin reveals an oasis of luxury, featuring Porcelain / Espresso Brown designo Nappa leather seats. These seats are not merely upholstered; they are adorned with exclusive diamond quilting and distinctive Budapest-design piping, showcasing unparalleled attention to detail. The interior trim further enhances the ambiance with open-pore brown ash wood featuring delicate light stripes, adding a touch of modern elegance and warmth. The dashboard, wrapped in Nappa leather, exudes premium quality and tactile richness. To complete the sensory experience, the Grand Edition includes standard ambient lighting, allowing drivers to personalize the cabin’s mood, and Espresso Brown velour floor mats, adding a final touch of plushness underfoot.
The exterior of the GLS Grand Edition models is equally distinguished. The GLS450 4MATIC Grand Edition makes a statement with its 20-inch 10-spoke two-tone wheels, perfectly complementing its sophisticated stance. It also incorporates the advanced LED Intelligent Light System, ensuring optimal visibility and adding a modern aesthetic. The GLS550 4MATIC Grand Edition takes the visual appeal a step further, equipped as standard with imposing 21-inch wheels and Active LED headlamps, projecting a powerful and refined presence. Subtle yet significant “Grand Edition” badging is tastefully applied to both models, serving as a discreet hallmark of their exclusive nature.
To provide a clear overview of the performance capabilities, here’s a comparison of the GLS Grand Edition models:
| Feature | GLS 450 4MATIC Grand Edition | GLS 550 4MATIC Grand Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinders/Arrangement | 6/V | 8/V |
| Displacement (cc) | 2,996 | 4,663 |
| Horsepower (hp) | 362 | 449 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 369 | 516 |
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 2018 Grand Edition option represented exceptional value for discerning buyers, priced at $6,000 for the GLS450 4MATIC and $3,200 for the GLS550 4MATIC. This upgrade offered a significant enhancement in luxury and exclusivity, solidifying the Mercedes-Benz GLS’s position as a leader in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
