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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d AMG Line review: When grand becomes majestic
The Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG Line adds a distinct flair to the already well-established GLS range Check Offers Recently launched in the Indian market, the Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG Line adds a distinct flair to the already well-established GLS range with its exclusive AMG-specific touches. The moment it rolled into my driveway during the golden hours of the evening, its sheer presence was undeniable. Drenched in a deep, dark shade and towering over everything else around it, I knew exactly at the moment that this wasn't just another luxury SUV. This was Mercedes-Benz making a bold, unapologetic statement of luxury and dominance. GLS AMG Line presents itself as a heavyweight dressed in a tailored performance suit The GLS AMG Line presents itself as a heavyweight dressed in a tailored performance suit: powerful, poised, and unapologetically commanding. Offered in both petrol and diesel variants, I had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the 450d version—and it was nothing short of a super-SUV oozing with opulence. Exteriors: From the moment you lay eyes on it, the GLS AMG Line distinguishes itself with subtle yet meaningful enhancements. The front fascia sports a refreshed grille with a revised colour palette, while the AMG-specific bumper design introduces wider air inlets and pronounced air aprons—adding a dash of aggression to its otherwise elegant presence. In keeping with its performance-inspired aesthetics, the black cladding around the wheel arches has been swapped out for body-coloured treatment, further refining its silhouette. Most attention-grabbing update lies beneath: the massive 21-inch AMG-spec five-spoke alloy wheels But perhaps the most attention-grabbing update lies beneath: the massive 21-inch AMG-spec five-spoke alloy wheels. Not only are they among the largest available in the segment, but they're also the only place on the entire SUV where the coveted 'AMG' branding is visibly etched. At the rear, the design continuity is maintained with a body-coloured bumper and dual chrome exhaust tips, styled to reflect AMG's signature design language. Together, these upgrades lend the GLS a sportier and more premium road presence without going overboard. Interiors: Step inside the GLS AMG Line and you're welcomed into familiar territory—one that blends the opulence of the standard GLS with subtle AMG Line flourishes. These enhancements are discreet yet purposeful: a new flat-bottom AMG steering wheel, brushed metal pedals, branded floor mats, and a sportier interior vibe. Beyond that, the cabin remains quintessentially GLS, and buyers can still choose from three tasteful interior colour schemes that accompany this trim. Inside the GLS AMG Line and you're welcomed into familiar territory—one that blends the opulence of the standard GLS with subtle AMG Line flourishes. What truly sets the GLS apart, however, is its sheer scale. This SUV doesn't just offer space—it offers room to stretch, lounge, and live. The front cabin is generously proportioned, with the wide centre console creating well-defined spaces for both the driver and co-passenger. The expansive glasshouse and panoramic sunroof flood the cabin with natural light, elevating the sense of airiness and making the interior feel even more inviting. Touchpoints throughout the cabin reflect Mercedes' usual finesse—soft materials, tactile buttons, and a general sense of precision. Yet, amid this luxury, one can't ignore that the layout and design are beginning to show signs of ageing, particularly when compared to the newer cabins in Mercedes' evolving lineup. It's still luxurious, no doubt, but the tech and styling cues could use a refresh. Touchpoints throughout the cabin reflect Mercedes' usual finesse—soft materials, tactile buttons, and a general sense of precision. Where the GLS truly earns its stripes is in the second row. This is the sweet spot—the space where passengers are most likely to spend time—and Mercedes has made sure it delivers. Rear-seat occupants are treated to dedicated climate control zones, rear entertainment screens, multiple USB-C ports, electric seat adjustment, and ample storage solutions. A fold-out centre armrest conceals cupholders and a touchscreen controller, giving passengers command over several in-cabin features. While comfort is top-tier and long-distance journeys feel effortless, it's worth noting that the GLS continues to offer only a bench setup for the second row—captain seats aren't an option, which could be a miss for some. Access to the third row is made easier with a one-touch tumble feature for the second-row seats. Though Mercedes positions the GLS as a 5+2 seater—suggesting the third row is more auxiliary than primary—it's far from cramped. Even adults can find usable space here, especially on shorter trips, and the flexibility of folding the seats down adds to the practicality. Drive: What sets the Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG Line apart isn't just its upscale aesthetics or plush interiors—it's the powerhouse that resides under the hood. The real magic begins when you awaken the 3.0-litre inline-six diesel engine. This isn't just a big SUV with premium credentials; it's a full-size luxury machine that knows how to move with purpose. Mated to a refined 9-speed automatic transmission, this diesel motor delivers power in a smooth, uninterrupted flow, making the sheer bulk of this SUV feel almost weightless once you're behind the wheel. The real magic begins when you awaken the 3.0-litre inline-six diesel engine It's not just quick 'for its size"; it's quick, period. The diesel version sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in just 6.1 seconds and can clock a top speed of 250 kmph. Aiding this performance is the 48V mild-hybrid system featuring an Integrated Starter Generator. Despite its substantial footprint, the GLS surprises with how agile and responsive it feels. The steering is light yet precise but what truly elevates the Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG Line above the rest isn't just its luxurious build or commanding presence—it's the sheer composure with which it glides over the road. Thanks to its adaptive air suspension, the ride feels almost ethereal. Whether it's battered tarmac, deep ruts, or an endless string of speed breakers, the GLS absorbs them all with a grace that makes most road imperfections feel irrelevant. It's that rare kind of SUV that encourages you to keep driving without hesitation, even when the road ahead looks less than inviting. On the pricing front, exclusivity comes at a premium. The GLS 450 AMG Line (petrol) is tagged at ₹ 1.40 crore (ex-showroom), while the diesel GLS 450d AMG Line asks for ₹ 1.43 crore. That's a ₹ 3 lakh hike over the standard GLS 450 for the petrol, and a ₹ 1 lakh jump for the diesel over the regular GLS 450d. But what you're paying for isn't just performance figures—it's the AMG-specific styling, finer interior details, and the cachet that comes with driving a GLS that wears the AMG badge. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d AMG Line isn't just another luxury SUV—it's a declaration of what modern luxury, performance, and engineering prowess look like when woven together with precision. Conclusion: The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d AMG Line isn't just another luxury SUV—it's a declaration of what modern luxury, performance, and engineering prowess look like when woven together with precision. From its AMG-tweaked design that adds aggression without losing elegance, to its punchy powertrain and outstanding driving dynamics, the GLS strikes a near-perfect balance between form and function. First Published Date: 21 Jul 2025, 16:17 pm IST
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Mercedes-AMG GLS SUV launched at Rs 1.40 Cr: 0-100 in 6.1s, 250 kmph top speed!
Mercedes-AMG GLS SUV launched at Rs 1.40 Cr. Mercedes-Benz India has launched the AMG Line version of its flagship full-size SUV, the GLS, priced at Rs 1.40 crore for the GLS 450 and Rs 1.43 crore for the GLS 450d , ex-showroom. This is the sportier iteration of the brand's most successful luxury SUVs in India, featuring AMG-specific changes, updated features, and enhanced performance. Here's a look at what's new. Mercedes-AMG GLS: Key highlights The new AMG Line gives the GLS an aggressive look inspired by the Mercedes-AMG family . Speaking of the exterior changes, it features a large AMG front apron, vertically-stacked chrome grille, blacked-out accents under the AMG Night Package, refreshed 21-inch alloy wheels, and larger perforated brake discs with Mercedes-Benz branding. The interior gets sportier too, with AMG sports pedals, nappa leather multifunction steering wheel, brushed stainless steel trims, and floor mats with AMG branding. Key features include a larger brake system for improved stopping power. Mercedes-Benz G 580 Review: Is Electric G-Wagen still iconic? | TOI Auto by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Se você sofre com dores no joelho. Leia isso antes que seja deletado Vida Sem Dores Undo Under the hood, the SUV offers two in-line six-cylinder engines: a 3.0-litre petrol unit in the GLS 450 that produces 376 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and a 3.0-litre diesel engine in the GLS 450d making 360 hp and 750 Nm of torque. Both variants use the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and offer a claimed 0-100 kmph sprint time of 6.1 seconds, with top speeds electronically limited to 250 kmph. Mercedes-Benz India sales: Best-ever Q1 sales in FY2025-2026 The launch of the GLS AMG Line comes at a high point for Mercedes-Benz India. The carmaker posted its best-ever Q1 performance in FY 2025-26, retailing 4,238 units between April and June 2025: a 10% increase over the same period last year. This growth was driven primarily by strong demand for top-end luxury vehicles and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The Top-End Vehicle segment, which includes models like the S-Class, Maybach, and AMG variants, saw a 20% growth in Q1. The company also reported a staggering 157% rise in BEV sales, now accounting for 8% of total volumes. Flagships like the EQS Maybach SUV, EQS 450, and the G 580 with EQ technology have been leading this charge. Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India .
Straits Times
09-07-2025
- Straits Times
Celebrity chef dismayed over recipe used by Australia's mushroom killer
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox An annotated photo of plates containing samples of a beef Wellington meal laced with toxic mushrooms that was prepared by Australian home cook Erin Patterson. MELBOURNE - One of Australia's most famous chefs said she was dismayed to learn killer cook Erin Patterson partially used her recipe when baking a poisonous beef Wellington that killed three people. Patterson was found guilty this week of murdering her husband's parents and elderly aunt in 2023 by lacing their Saturday lunch with lethal death cap mushrooms. She based the dish – poisonous fungi aside – on a recipe by celebrity Australian chef Nagi Maehashi, the author of best-selling cookbooks. Ms Maehashi said her recipe for the perfect beef Wellington had become 'entangled in a tragic situation'. 'It is of course upsetting to learn that one of my recipes – possibly the one I've spent more hours perfecting than any other – something I created to bring joy and happiness, is entangled in a tragic situation,' she said late on July 8 on social media. Throughout a trial lasting more than two months, Patterson maintained the beef-and-pastry dish was accidentally poisoned with death cap mushrooms, the world's most-lethal fungus. But a 12-person jury on July 7 found the 50-year-old guilty of triple murder, a crime that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Why Japan and South Korea are on different paths in the latest US trade salvo Opinion Hyper-competitive classrooms feed the corporate world's narcissist pipeline Opinion Is Donald Trump unstoppable? Singapore Keep citizens at the centre of public service, Chan Chun Sing tells civil servants Business 'It's our grandfather's company, we won't sell', says Wong family as shareholders reject GE delisting bid Singapore Chuan Grove GLS site snags top bid of $703.6m from Sing Holdings-Sunway joint venture Sport Singapore U-16 girls given footballing lesson in first match of inaugural Lion City Cup girls' tournament Singapore Man arrested for allegedly throwing bottle at SMRT bus, injuring passenger She was also found guilty of attempting to murder a fourth guest who survived. AFP
Straits Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Chuan Grove GLS site snags top bid of $703.6m from Sing Holdings-Sunway joint venture
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox This plot, which can yield 555 private homes, is the larger of two Chuan Grove GLS sites slated for sale. SINGAPORE – A plum state land parcel in Chuan Grove secured a top bid of $703.6 million on July 8 from a joint venture between Sing Holdings Residential and Sunway Developments. This site – the first Government Land Sales (GLS) site in Chuan Grove since 2009 – drew seven bids, signalling optimism about the Lorong Chuan location. This came on the heels of a hotly contested state tender in June for a Dunearn Road site, which drew nine bids, and a Lakeside Drive tender, which attracted six bids. The top bid of $703.6 million, which translates to $1,376 per sq ft per plot ratio (psf ppr), is 7.3 per cent higher than the next bid of $1,282 psf ppr tabled by City Developments. It is the second-highest bid ever for a private GLS plot in the suburbs, after a Bayshore Road plot was awarded at $1,388 psf ppr in March. Sing Holdings, in a Singapore Exchange filing on July 8, said it will form a joint venture with Sunway with equity interests of 65 per cent and 35 per cent, respectively, to complete the land purchase and develop a new residential project with a gross floor area of 47,495 sq m. Mr Lee Sze Hao, chief executive of Sing Holdings, said: 'Subject to the tender award by URA (Urban Redevelopment Authority), we plan to develop a residential development comprising three high-rise towers of approximately 550 units with full facilities and community-centric features.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Why Japan and South Korea are on different paths in the latest US trade salvo Singapore NDP celebrations to be held at 5 heartland sites, including Bishan and Punggol, on Aug 10 Singapore Keep citizens at the centre of public service, Chan Chun Sing tells civil servants Singapore Man arrested for allegedly throwing bottle at SMRT bus, injuring passenger Asia As Trump plays tariffs hard ball, Asean has little choice but to play on Asia PM Anwar called out by his own lawmakers as Malaysia's judicial crisis heats up Singapore SIA flight from Brisbane to Singapore diverted to Perth due to technical issue The Chuan Grove site is one of the more attractive suburban sites bordering the city fringe area, said Mr Justin Quek, deputy group CEO of Realion, the entity formed after a merger between OrangeTee and real estate consultancy ETC. He noted that the $1,376 psf ppr bid for the suburban site was only 2.4 per cent lower than the Dunearn Road prime district parcel, which was awarded on July 3 at $1,410 psf ppr. ERA Singapore CEO Marcus Chu said: 'With the site's desirable location and excellent connectivity, the developer likely anticipated healthy demand, giving them the confidence to place a strong bid.' Developers' appetite for land did not cool despite the announcement of the extension of the seller's stamp duty (SSD) holding period to four years and heightened SSD rates from July 4, PropNex Realty CEO Ismail Gafoor noted. He said this signals healthy land-banking interest and developers' optimism that the site will mostly appeal to genuine home buyers, who are less affected by the revised SSD framework. This plot, which can yield 555 private homes, is the larger of two Chuan Grove GLS sites slated for sale. Even with impending supply from an adjacent plot, which can offer 505 new units , developer interest did not cool for the larger site, Mr Gafoor added. The state tender for the second Chuan Grove plot will close in September. Strong take-up at nearby launch Chuan Park encouraged developers to bid more confidently for the Chuan Grove site, said Ms Tricia Song, head of research for South-east Asia at CBRE. Chuan Park moved 696 of its 916 units – 76 per cent – at an average price of $2,537 psf on its launch weekend in November 2024. To date, 766 units, or 84 per cent, have been sold at a median price of $2,591 psf, CBRE said. Given the low unsold inventory in the area, there could still be ample demand from HDB upgraders, or potential downgraders from landed estates in Serangoon, Bishan and Ang Mo Kio nearby, Ms Song said. The number of unsold units in the suburbs stood at 4,361 in the first quarter of 2025, the lowest since the fourth quarter of 2022, Huttons Asia CEO Mark Yip noted. Knight Frank research head Leonard Tay said that there have been no new condo launches in Lorong Chuan since the 468-unit The Scala hit the market in 2010. Hong Leong Group beat 14 other bidders to be awarded the GLS parcel on which The Scala sits in Serangoon Avenue 3 for $221 million or $529 psf ppr in October 2009. Among its attributes, the Chuan Grove site is located near Lorong Chuan MRT station, as well as Serangoon and Bishan MRT stations, and near the NTP+ mall in New Tech Park, Bishan's Junction 8 and Serangoon's Nex.
Straits Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
New Draft Master Plan could reignite developers' interest to buy land
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Bukit Timah Turf City, a key housing area, had one of the most hotly contested tender exercises in recent years. SINGAPORE – The release of the Draft Master Plan 2025 appears to have reignited developers' interest in banking land for development, as borne out in part by strong bids for a Bukit Timah Turf City plot on June 26. That tender exercise, which drew nine bids and better-than-expected bid prices – the most for a Government Land Sales (GLS) site since 2021 – was one of the most hotly contested tender exercises in the last four years.
