Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the refreshed GLS, its flagship SUV, which aligns closely with the latest advancements seen in the S-Class saloon. This update brings significant enhancements to technology, handling, and overall refinement, positioning the GLS as a highly equipped vehicle short of the Maybach variants.

Exterior Overhaul: A New Face for the Flagship SUV

The most visible changes are concentrated at the front and rear, bringing the GLS in line with Mercedes-Benz's current design language. The grille has been enlarged and now features illumination, a signature modern touch.

Distinctive Lighting and Bonnet Details

The updated SUV sports an upright Mercedes star on the bonnet, mirroring the S-Class. This star can be illuminated when driving in the US market or when stationary in China.

New, larger headlight units flank the grille, offering improved performance. These lights utilize star-shaped elements arranged in a 2+2 stacked formation on each side, differentiating them from the horizontal arrangement found on the GLE. These advanced units emit 40% more light while consuming half the power of their predecessors.

At the rear, the taillights feature three distinct stars, a design choice Mercedes states emphasizes the GLS's more premium positioning compared to the GLE, which features two stars.

Interior Technology and Ergonomic Improvements

Inside, the new GLS adopts the MBUX Superscreen as standard equipment, a setup familiar from the GLE. This configuration comprises three 12.3-inch displays: one for the driver, one for infotainment, and one dedicated to the front passenger.

Rear Seat Luxury and Software Updates

Reinforcing its limousine-like feel, the GLS includes two 11.6-inch displays for rear passengers. All screens run on the latest iteration of MB.OS, with future features expected to be delivered via over-the-air updates.

A significant physical improvement involves the steering wheel controls. Mercedes has replaced the previous haptic, wheel-mounted system with traditional physical switchgear, which provides a noticeable improvement in usability.

Powertrain Lineup and Advanced Dynamics

The engine range sees updates, starting with the GLS 580 4Matic. This model now features a new flat-plane crank V8 engine producing 530bhp and 553ft lbs of torque, promising enhanced torque delivery across a broader range and a better engine note.

Engine Options and Suspension Technology

The mid-range option remains the 450 4Matic, equipped with a straight-six petrol engine delivering 413 ft lbs of torque. The diesel offerings consist of the 350d and 450d variants.

Like the GLE, the GLS incorporates E-Active Body Control, an intelligent active suspension system. This technology employs five processors and over 20 sensors to make suspension adjustments up to 1000 times per second.

Autonomous Driving Capabilities Vary by Region

The SUV is equipped with substantial autonomous hardware, including ten exterior cameras, five radars, and twelve ultrasonic sensors. However, the availability of specific driver assistance features is geographically dependent.

While Mercedes adaptive cruise control is available in the UK from launch, advanced systems like MB.Drive Assist and Assist Pro are launching initially in China, with the USA following later. Their introduction to the European Union market is currently pending resolution of ongoing litigation.