Here's Our Best Look Yet at the Next-Gen Mercedes-Benz GLS-class

From Car and Driver

• A reader spotted the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLS-class ahead of its debut, giving us our best look yet at the new big SUV.

• This will be the third generation of the GLS, which was previously called GL; the name change accompanied a facelift for the outgoing second-generation version.

• Expect the new model to make its debut this spring and go on sale before the end of 2019.

Mercedes-Benz's largest SUV has won our 10Best Trucks and SUVs award in the Large SUV category several years in a row, but it's no secret that it's been getting on in years. But the GLS-class is about to get a much-needed redesign. And we now have a good look at it thanks to reader Clay Barnett, who spotted this lightly camouflaged test vehicle near Birmingham, Alabama (which happens to be near where the GLS is produced, in Vance, Alabama).

Compared to the prototype we spied on the Nürburgring racetrack last year (of all places), these photos show much more of the new GLS's look. It's still a big, imposing, blocky SUV, but the new model looks considerably more refined, with nicely contoured lights, a prominent front grille, and elegant side surfacing that fit in well with the newest styling trends found throughout the rest of Mercedes-Benz's fresher lineup. The interior is mostly covered up in these photos, but it will surely offer more opulence, more tech, and more space than its predecessor.

As before, a wide range of models will be on offer. A GLS450 model, likely with Mercedes-Benz's new inline-six powertrain, will anchor the bottom, while V-8–powered AMG versions will satisfy those with an appetite for power. Rumors of an ultra-luxury Maybach version of the GLS have also been circulating.

Expect to hear more about the new Mercedes GLS over the coming months; we anticipate it will debut sometime this spring. It should arrive at U.S. dealerships by the end of this year.

('You Might Also Like',)

• Unclogging Streets Could Help City Dwellers Save 125 Hours a Year

• The 10 Cheapest New Cars of 2018

• Get Out Early, Get In Late: What to Know About Auto Lease Transfers