The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS emerges as a paragon of luxury SUVs, carrying forward the legacy of the GL-Class with enhanced sophistication and a broader spectrum of features. This model year presents a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology, making it a standout choice for discerning drivers. Whether you’re considering adding a pre-owned GLS to your collection or simply exploring its specifications, understanding its detailed offerings is key.
The 2016 GLS lineup begins with the GL350 Bluetec and GL450, both sharing a foundation of premium appointments but differentiated by their powertrains. The GL350 Bluetec harnesses the efficiency of a turbocharged diesel V6 engine, while the GL450 opts for a gasoline-powered turbocharged V6. Despite their engine variations, both models are generously equipped with features designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality. These include 19-inch alloy wheels that provide a confident stance and smooth ride, and a self-leveling air suspension system that automatically adjusts to maintain optimal ride height and comfort, regardless of passenger or cargo load. Automatic headlights and LED running lights ensure visibility and modern styling, complemented by LED taillights for enhanced safety. A sunroof invites natural light into the cabin, while automatic wipers offer convenience during inclement weather. Roof rails add to the vehicle’s utility, and rear privacy glass enhances passenger comfort and security. Power rear quarter-windows and a power liftgate further exemplify the thoughtful design focused on user convenience.
[Image of the 2016 Mercedes Benz Gls exterior showcasing its 19-inch alloy wheels and sunroof]
Stepping inside the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS reveals a cabin meticulously crafted for comfort and luxury. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for the driver and front passenger. “MB-Tex” premium vinyl upholstery offers a durable yet refined seating surface, while heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment provide exceptional comfort and support for long journeys. The power-folding third-row seat adds versatility to passenger and cargo configurations, and a rear cargo area cover keeps belongings discreetly stowed. A leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel provides a premium touch and adjustable driving position, and genuine wood trim accents throughout the interior elevate the sense of luxury.
[Image of the 2016 Mercedes Benz GLS interior highlighting the wood trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel]
Technologically, the 2016 GLS is well-appointed. The knob-based COMAND interface serves as the central hub for vehicle controls and entertainment, displayed on a 7-inch central screen. A rearview camera enhances safety during parking and maneuvering, while Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity allows for seamless smartphone integration. Mercedes mbrace2 emergency communications, including smartphone app integration, provides added security and convenience. A 115-volt household-style power outlet caters to device charging needs, and the sound system, featuring a CD/DVD player, HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, SD card reader, and a USB port, ensures a variety of entertainment options.
For those seeking an even more elevated experience, the Premium package available for the GL350 and GL450 models adds a suite of luxurious enhancements. Power-folding exterior mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming improve visibility and convenience, while keyless entry and ignition streamline vehicle access. Power front head restraints and memory settings for the driver and front passenger seats enhance personalized comfort. A power-adjustable steering wheel further refines the driving position, and heated and cooled cupholders add a touch of indulgence. Lighted door sills and multicolor ambient lighting create an inviting atmosphere, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror further reduces nighttime driving glare. Navigation with real-time traffic updates ensures efficient routing, while voice controls add hands-free operation. 10GB of digital music storage, an iPod/media player interface, and satellite radio expand entertainment choices.
The Lighting package enhances visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights and automatic high beams, while the Appearance package elevates the exterior style with 20-inch alloy wheels, lighted running boards, and chrome exhaust tips (GL450 only). The Lane Tracking package incorporates a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist for enhanced driver awareness, and the Parking Assist package includes front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view camera system to simplify parking maneuvers. Further individual options include three-zone automatic climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, ventilated front seats, luxurious leather upholstery, a premium 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for audiophiles, and “multicontour” front seats that feature a massaging function and adjustable side bolsters and shoulder supports for ultimate comfort on long drives.
[Image of the 2016 Mercedes Benz GLS showcasing its premium lighting and optional larger alloy wheels]
The GL550 model elevates the GLS experience further, incorporating many of the aforementioned features as standard and adding a robust V8 engine for increased performance. It also distinguishes itself with 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for enhanced ride dynamics, sporty exterior styling cues for a more aggressive appearance, soft-close doors that whisper luxury, distinctive wood trim inside, and unique dashboard stitching that speaks to meticulous craftsmanship.
Across the GL350, GL450, and GL550 models, optional enhancements include a panoramic sunroof that expands the sense of spaciousness, heated second-row seats for passenger comfort, and the Driver Assistance package. This comprehensive safety suite includes adaptive cruise control and advanced safety technologies designed to provide peace of mind. For those seeking enhanced capability, the GL450 and GL550 can be equipped with an On-/Off-Road package, featuring a six-mode terrain selector, a two-speed transfer case, and front underbody protection. On the GL450, this package also includes the GL550’s standard adaptive dampers, bridging the gap in performance and capability.
At the pinnacle of the 2016 GLS range is the high-performance GL63 AMG. Building upon the already extensive feature set, the GL63 AMG boasts an even more potent V8 engine, a sport exhaust system that announces its performance pedigree, exclusive 21-inch AMG alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension for dynamic handling, upgraded brakes for confident stopping power, adaptive stabilizer bars (Mercedes-Benz’s Active Curve System) for reduced body roll in corners, and AMG-specific styling elements both inside and out that underscore its high-performance nature. Enhanced bolstering for the front seats provides superior support during spirited driving, upgraded “designo” leather upholstery elevates the interior ambiance, and a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel adds a sporty touch to the driver interface.
Further personalization options available across all 2016 GLS models include a trailer hitch for towing needs, an illuminated grille badge for added visual flair, a heated steering wheel for cold-weather comfort, power-sliding second-row seats to ease access to the third row, rear side window sunshades for passenger comfort, a rear entertainment system to keep rear occupants engaged, and a high-fidelity 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system for an unparalleled auditory experience.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV segment. Its comprehensive feature set, ranging from essential comforts to advanced technologies and performance enhancements, ensures it caters to a wide spectrum of discerning owners. Maintaining the pristine condition of a vehicle of this caliber is paramount, and services like professional car detailing, offered by experts at cardetailinguk.com, are essential to preserving its beauty and value for years to come.
