Once called the GL-Klasse, the new GLS has fallen victim to yet another case of model-naming shenanigans (don't even get me started on what's going on over there with Infiniti). It's supposed to make it easier for non-car folks to identify a manufacturer's various offerings, and it works here. The S-Klasse is Mercedes's largest sedan; thus, the GLS is their largest SUV. Apply the same formula to the C- and E-Klasses and it all makes sense.
What we have here is another AMG variant of a Mercedes-Benz product, the GLS63 AMG. For the time being, I only collect the high-performance editions of the German brands, so this one fits right in with the rest of the cars even though it's a giant, hulking SUV amidst a sea of bona fide sports cars and sports cars disguised as family sedans.
It seems pointless to have so much power in a vehicle designed to haul the entire extended family from Point A to Point B. But the other day, I saw one of these barreling around town, weaving in and out of traffic and making hard right turns, and I couldn't help but tip my hat to the man who is at least attempting to utilize the AMG's full potential.
About the model itself, it's superb as has become the norm from GT Spirit. It's one of their latest releases and comes after they put out a white colorway of the same model, exclusive to dealerships, months prior. This general-release black one is limited to 1500 pieces, and I was surprised to see how quickly it sold out at many online model shops, given that most collectors do not bother with SUV's and the like. The GLS is certainly an intriguing subject matter, and this model rewards those who take the plunge.
It's solid as a brick and makes all other eighteenth-scale models feel like featherweights. Black is my favorite color choice for this car, and it looks rather grand here. I also love the choice of the cream colored interior, which I believe may be the first that has come across my hands. There's no skimping on the details. GT Spirit has one-upped their previous M-B models by giving the GLS the full mesh grille treatment up front. Everything else is standard fare, in the best way possible. That means proportions, wheels, badges, and interior are all punching above its class. Even if SUV's aren't your thing, don't be quick to write this one off.
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