Revised styling, extra features and new software for Mercedes-Benz’s flagship seven-seat SUV
Official pictures and full details of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS have dropped, revealing how the German luxury brand will keep its flagship three-row SUV relevant against the likes of the BMW X7.
The mid-life overhaul follows in the wake of similar updates to the GLA, GLB and GLE model lines, and includes revisions to the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan-challenging Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600.
Externally, the styling tweaks of the third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLS aren’t easy to spot. There’s a redesigned grille that incorporates four louvres and a new surround finisher, while the front bumper also has revised air intakes that are finished in gloss black.
Beneath, tweaks to the underbody sees ground clearance increase by around 30mm.
Other changes include new tail-lights that get a three-element light signature. There’s also a set of fresh 20-inch rims, with a further option of 21s, 22s and even 23-inch alloy wheels for the range-topping versions.
Inside, the MBUX infotainment system now matches the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class limo when it comes to software, with customisable displays that range from Classic, Sporty to Discreet.
Despite its road bias, the updated GLS gets a new ‘Off-Road Mode’ as part of the facelift that offers a new display with readout for the gradient, lateral inclination, a compass and a useful steering angle gauge that all help when you’re in the rough.
The Parking Package becomes standard-fit, adding a 360-degree camera and a Land Rover Defender-aping transparent bonnet that was previously introduced on the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Other changes include a new steering wheel with revised touchpad controls, an upgraded voice assistant that no longer needs ‘Hey Mercedes’ to kick in, plus two more USB ports on the centre console and an overhauled cabin air filtration system.
Changes to the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 are equally modest. There’s a tweaked body kit, different rear light clusters, two new body colours, red brake callipers, AMG puddle lights and the choice of 21- or 23-inch rims.
Inside, there’s Nappa leather seats that are offered in brown, beige or black.
Like the core GLS, the hotter AMG version gains new displays with its infotainment, including an AMG-specific menu.
Other welcome additions include a standard panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, adaptive headlights, an AMG sports exhaust and upgraded sound system.
A pair of temperature-controlled cup holders and a new AMG steering wheel and head-up display that include augmented reality complete the cabin changes.
Beneath the skin the AMG gets updated chassis settings designed to provide for more precise cornering. There’s also new active roll stabilisation that’s said to improve comfort for all onboard.
At the top of the GLS tree the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 gets an imposing vertical chrome bar grille with ‘Maybach’ lettering.
The most luxurious take on the full-size SUV also gets air intakes with chrome surrounds and huge 23-inch alloy wheels that are only available on the Maybach version.
The seats are now upholstered in luxurious perforated diamond-pattern quilted leather that can be specified in white, silver, brown or beige.
As far as powertrains go, in Europe the GLS range kicks off with the 280kW 3.0-litre inline-six petrol that powers the GLS 450 4MATIC. A 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 powers both the 380kW GLS 580 4MATIC and the 450kW GLS 63 AMG 4MATIC+, both now featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid tech.
On the diesel side there’s a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel that pumps out 230kW in the GLS 350d 4MATIC and 270kW in the 450d 4MATIC.
Finally, at the GLS summit is the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC that produces 410kW from its 4.0-litre biturbo V8.
Australian pricing and first deliveries are still to be announced, while in Europe the new GLS lands in October.
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Keyword: 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS revealed