Next-gen Mercedes GLS to debut in New York

The new GLS will take direct aim at the BMW X7.

Mercedes-Benz announced on Tuesday that it will use the upcoming New York auto show to introduce the next-generation of its GLS full-size SUV.

The new GLS has been a long time in the making, with the current version of the SUV dating all the way back to 2012. Since then Audi, BMW and Volvo have introduced new large SUV designs of their own.

Touted as the S-Class of SUVs, the new GLS will benefit from a roomier cabin provided by a 60mm wheelbase stretch. As before, the new GLS will contain three rows of seating, with Mercedes promising "a generous amount of space and outstanding seating comfort” for all passengers.

Ride and handling should also be improved thanks to the addition of the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension that was introduced on the latest GLE SUV. The adjustable suspension should also help the GLS' off-road prowess.

In addition to offering S-Class levels of luxury, the GLS will also match Mercedes' flagship sedan in terms of tech. We've already seen prototypes roaming the street with Mercedes' dual-screen cockpit setup, and the automaker says we can also expect the latest semi-autonomous technologies.

Look for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS to arrive in dealer showrooms later this year.