Exterior Design Evolution
The latest iteration of Mercedes-Benz's flagship SUV presents a refined exterior, emphasizing a more imposing presence. The front fascia has been thoughtfully
updated, featuring a larger grille enhanced with a substantial chrome surround and integrated lighting elements. This grille now showcases Mercedes’ distinctive star-pattern detailing, a design cue that is mirrored on the bonnet, which also sports the brand's iconic three-pointed star, optionally illuminated in certain markets. The vehicle's bumpers have undergone a redesign, and both the headlamps and tail-lamps have been re-engineered to incorporate a new star-inspired lighting signature. Complementing these changes, Mercedes has expanded the available options with new paint finishes and contemporary alloy wheel designs, allowing for greater personalization and a more modern aesthetic for this esteemed luxury vehicle.
Interior Tech & Comfort
Inside, the GLS receives a significant upgrade with the standard inclusion of the MBUX Superscreen layout. This sophisticated setup features three expansive 12.3-inch displays seamlessly integrated beneath a single piece of glass, creating a futuristic and immersive cockpit. Operating on the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), this system leverages artificial intelligence to deliver more personalized user interactions and enables convenient over-the-air updates, ensuring the software remains current. Enhancements to rear-seat comfort are particularly noteworthy, especially when opting for the Rear Comfort Package Plus. While the SUV continues to provide three rows of seating as standard, with fully electric adjustment for ease of use and improved spaciousness in the second and third rows, the rear cabin now boasts twin 11.6-inch displays for passengers, optional individually configurable and removable MBUX remote controls, and refined climate control functions, elevating the overall travel experience for all occupants.
Powertrain & Performance Boost
Under the hood, the GLS is equipped with an updated range of engines, all incorporating mild-hybrid technology for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The V8 engine in the GLS 580 now delivers an impressive 530 bhp and 750 Nm of torque, a notable increase from its previous output of 500 bhp and 720 Nm. The inline-six petrol engine powering the GLS 450 has also been revised, resulting in enhanced torque delivery. Diesel variants have also been updated, with a focus on boosting efficiency and reducing emissions. A significant engineering detail is that the GLS 580’s V8 engine now features a flat-plane crankshaft, a design typically found in high-performance vehicles like the S-Class. All engines are paired with an integrated starter generator and a 48V system, which facilitates functions such as electric boost, contributing to a smoother and more dynamic driving experience across the entire lineup.
Innovative Suspension System
To elevate ride comfort to unprecedented levels, Mercedes-Benz has introduced significant advancements to the AIRMATIC air suspension system. The key innovation is the integration of cloud-based predictive damping. By utilizing Car-to-X data, which allows vehicles to communicate with their surroundings and traffic infrastructure, the system can proactively anticipate upcoming road conditions, such as bumps or uneven surfaces. This allows the suspension settings to be adjusted in advance, ensuring a remarkably smooth and composed ride. Furthermore, the GLS continues to offer the sophisticated E-Active Body Control system. This technology actively adjusts individual suspension settings in real-time, providing superior stability during cornering and enhancing overall passenger comfort by minimizing body roll and road imperfections, creating a serene driving environment.
Advanced Safety Suite
The updated GLS is comprehensively equipped with an advanced sensor suite designed to enhance safety and driver assistance capabilities. This suite comprises multiple high-resolution cameras, sophisticated radar units, and ultrasonic sensors, all working in conjunction with a more powerful onboard computing system. This enhanced technological foundation enables a broader range of improved driver assistance features under the MB.DRIVE suite. These advancements include more intelligent adaptive cruise control that can better manage speed and distance, more precise steering assist for reduced driver fatigue, and sophisticated parking functions that simplify maneuvering in tight spaces. The updated system provides drivers with greater confidence and support, making long journeys and daily commutes safer and more relaxed.
