Mercedes-Benz has now unveiled the updated version of the Mercedes-Benz GLS, not long after introducing the updated GLE and GLE Coupe. Set to arrive in European dealerships by the end of October 2023, the GLS is available in 6 versions including an AMG and a Maybach version.
On the outside, updates to the Mercedes-Benz GLS include a more striking radiator grille, a more visually prominent bumper with integrated air inlets and rear lights with a new triple horizontal block design. There are also 2 new body colours for the GLS, namely ‘sodalite blue metallic’ and ‘MANUFAKTUR alpine grey non-metallic’.
Mercedes-Benz says that “most drivers of a GLS only travel on paved roads or in easy to moderately difficult off-road terrain”. Hence, the company has recompiled the scope of the Off-Road Engineering Package. Components include an underride guard and 30 millimetres more ground clearance.
Inside, the Mercedes-Benz GLS has been revised with the latest steering wheel generation, louvres galvanized in Silver Shadow, and glossy brown line wood trim which is now standard. Customers of all GLS versions can also opt for the MANUFAKTUR glossy black flowing line piano lacquer trim which was previously only available for the GLS 600 4MATIC.
Also new to the cabin of the GLS are two new interior colours for the leather upholstery – Catalana Beige and Bahia Brown. Naturally with the update, the Mercedes-Benz Gls now comes with the latest version of MBUX. Customers can also opt for the ‘Optional MBUX Multi-seat entertainment’ which provides all passengers with a fully decked infotainment unit.
There are 6 versions of the Mercedes-Benz GLS, all of them with electrified powertrains, and with a 7-seater configuration:
- GLS 450 4MATIC
- GLS 580 4MATIC
- GLS 350 d 4MATIC
- GLS 450 d 4MATIC
- Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC
- Mercedes-AMG 63 4MATIC +
Brief details of the GLS variants (except AMG and Maybach versions) are listed below:
| GLS 450 4MATIC | GLS 580 4MATIC | GLS 350 d 4MATIC | GLS 450 d 4MATIC | |
| Displacement (cc) | 2,999 | 3,982 | 2,989 | 2,989 |
| Output (hp) | 381 | 517 | 269 | 367 |
| Peak Torque (Nm) | 500 | 730 | 650 | 750 |
| Add. boost output (hp) | 20 | 22 | 20 | 20 |
| Add. boost torque (Nm) | 200 | 250 | 200 | 200 |
| 0-100 km/h (s) | 6.1 | 4.9 | 6.7 | 6.1 |
| Top speed (km/h) | 250 | 250 | 238 | 250 |
The AMG GLS can be distinguished by the AMG grille, an AMG emblem replacing the Mercedes-Benz star, red brake callipers, and wheels that go up to 23 inches in size. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-scroll biturbo engine that makes 612 hp (metric) and 850 Nm. The integrated starter alternator (ISG) provides an additional 16 hp (metric) and 250 Nm. The AMG GLS does 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds onward to a top speed of 280 km/h.
The Maybach GLS gets vertical chrome bars, Maybach letterings, and a 23-inch Maybach design wheels with bolt covers. The Maybach GLS is also equipped with ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes‑Maybach pattern and a new seat cover design that features high-quality diamond-pattern quilting with specific perforations. The Maybach GLS makes 557 hp and 730 Nm from a 3.9-litre engine. It also gets additional boost from the ISG that makes 16 hp and 250 Nm. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds onward to a top speed of 250 km/h.
In Malaysia, the pre-facelift Mercedes-Benz GLS is currently available either as the GLS 450 4MATIC or the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, both fully imported (CBU). The GLS 450 costs RM899,888 (with SST) while the Maybach GLS costs RM1,789,453 (without SST).
