Just days before the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLS flagship SUV was supposed to be unwrapped, images of the next-generation Range Rover rival have appeared online.
Set to switch to the same Modular High Architecture (MHA) that already underpins the large GLE, the next Mercedes GLS shares little with the model it replaces, aside from an evolution of its looks.
The big news is the new Mercedes GLS is set to benefit from not only a significant drop in kerb weight but the German car-maker's latest 48-volt electrical architecture.
Under the bonnet, it will adopt its turbocharged petrol and diesel six- and eight-cylinder engines from the latest S-Class and, for the first time, there will be a plug-in hybrid version of the GLS that will provide it with a 50km pure-electric driving range.
At the top of the tree, expect a 450kW Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 performance model that will use a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.
Developed alongside the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, the new Mercedes-Benz GLS is set to be offered with seven seats while its luxury alternative is expected to come with the option of four, five or six seats.Other differences include a different exterior styling kit, with the Maybach variant expected to get a bespoke grille, body kit and wheels.
It's been reported the Maybach version might also come equipped with more advanced autonomous driving technology, to help justify its price premium over its Mercedes sibling.
More details are expected following the Mercedes GLS' full reveal at the New York show on Wednesday.