Mercedes-Benz has revealed how much the new GLS 580 will
set customers back. Those looking to park a GLS 580 in their garage will need to part
ways with US$ 97,800 before taxes and options for the big SUV. That’s not cheap
and is US$ 22,600 more than the going price of a new GLS 450. The main difference
between the two is that the GLS 580 is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine with
the marque’s EQ Boost technology.
This results in a total of 483 hp and 699
Nm of torque, as the GLS 580 also happens to be the first V8-powered Mercedes
model with this EQ Boost system. Like the GLS 450, power is manipulated with
the aid of a four-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
In most driving scenarios, the all-wheel drive
system of the new GLS sends 100 per cent of its power to the rear wheels, but
can direct up to 50 per cent to the front if and when it is needed. Power can
also be transferred from side-to-side, helping to improve the SUV’s on- and
off-roading abilities.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 can be optioned with a
special off-road package, although pricing for this upgrade isn’t known.
Included in the package is the low range function, hill-descent control,
special tuning for the ABS and stability control, new functions for the regular
Off-Road Mode, plus the addition of an Off-Road+ mode designed for steep
terrain and rocks.