The new GLS models: fresh look, new software

  • New paint finishes, interior upholsteries and trims
  • Upgraded standard equipment, expanded new options
  • Enhanced engine portfolio

Hot on the heels of the new GLE and GLE Coupe, the 2024 Mercedes‑Benz GLS, Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 and Mercedes‑AMG GLS 63 introduces a host of new updates. A number of design, technology and equipment changes take the comfort, connectivity and performance of the full-size SUV model series to new heights.

With generous interior dimensions, the SUV models offer interior space for up to seven occupants. The new 2024 GLS model range will arrive in U.S. dealerships later in 2023.

Mercedes-Benz GLS: visual enhancement and functional off-road features

The new Mercedes‑Benz GLS models can be recognized by the even more striking radiator grille. The four louvers feature a Silver Shadow finish. The front bumper is also visually more prominent with integrated air inlet grilles, combined with a surround in high-gloss black, and a redesigned front underride guard. At the rear, the GLS impresses with new LED taillights showcasing a light signet formed by three horizontal blocks.

The interior of the Mercedes‑Benz GLS features seating configurations for six or seven occupants. With Catalana Beige and Bahia Brown, customers can choose from two new leather upholstery options. The range of interior trim finishes has also been revised with new High-Gloss Brown Linden Wood. MANUFAKTUR Piano Lacquer Flowing Lines, previously reserved for the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600, is now also available for the GLS family from Mercedes‑Benz. Another new detail familiar from the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS is the Silver Shadow finish of the center and side climate control vents.

The latest generation MBUX infotainment system brings with it a new look for the displays. The central display can be operated directly and conveniently as a touchscreen. The driver display can be individualized with three different display styles (Classic, Sporty, Discreet) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). The "Classic" style provides the driver with all relevant information. The "Sporty" style is instantly recognizable by its red accents and dynamic design for the central tachometer. With the "Discreet" style, only the most essential information is displayed. In addition, both displays can be shown in seven color schemes in conjunction with the ambient lighting. The result is an impressive color experience in the interior.

The "Off-Road Mode" in the current MBUX generation turns special content such as gradient, lateral inclination, compass and steering angle into a visual experience. Thanks to the standard Surround View system with 360‑degree camera, it offers the "transparent hood" function. When the Off-Road mode is active, the central display shows a virtual view under the front of the vehicle. This enables the driver to recognize obstacles in their path such as large rocks or deep potholes sooner and more easily.

The Off-Road Package, available for the GLS 580 4MATIC, includes an underride guard and in combination with the SUV’s standard AIRMATIC suspension, provides 1.2 inches more ground clearance.

All-wheel drive and a gear ratio designed for pulling power allow a tow capacity of up to 7,716 lbs and a tongue weight of up to 309 lbs. Helpful additional features for use when towing include Trailer Maneuvering Assist and the updated Trailer menu in the central display.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS: extraordinary luxury refined even further

Vertical chrome bars and the "Maybach" lettering are the distinguishing features of the top model's radiator grille design. The air inlet grilles on the front fascia feature a Maybach pattern and a chrome surround. These elements are further complimented by a new optional 23‑inch forged wheel in exquisite Maybach design with a forged wheel bolt cover.

A new standard feature for the Mercedes-Maybach GLS is ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes‑Maybach pattern. In the interior, the new seat upholstery features a new design which emphasizes the luxurious character of the Mercedes‑Maybach. The center sections of the seat surfaces and backrests now feature elegant diamond quilting with specific perforations. MANUFAKTUR Crystal White/Silver Grey Pearl and MANUFAKTUR Mahogany Brown/Macchiato Beige Nappa leather, both exclusive to the Mercedes‑Maybach model, are among the color choices offered for the interior.

Further new features of the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Mercedes-Maybach GLS

  • New Twilight Blue Metallic and MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey Non-Metallic paint finishes
  • Latest generation steering wheel with touch controls on the spokes
  • Two USB ports with 100W output in the rear of the center console

Models and data at a glance:

Mercedes-Benz GLS

 

GLS 450 4MATIC

GLS 580 4MATIC

Displacement

cc

2,999

3,982

Output

hp

375

510

at

rpm

5,800-6,100

5,500

Add. output (Boost)

hp

20

21

Torque

lb-ft

369

538

at

rpm

1,800-5,000

2,250-5,500

Add. torque (Boost)

lb-ft

148

184

Acceleration 0-60 mph

s

5.8 (est.)

4.7 (est.)

Top speed

mph

130

130

 

Mercedes-Maybach GLS

 

GLS 600

Displacement

cc

3,982

Output

hp

550

at

rpm

6,000-6,500

Add. output (Boost)

hp

21

Torque

lb-ft

538

at

rpm

2,500-5,000

Add. torque (Boost)

lb-ft

184

Acceleration 0-60 mph

s

4.7 (est.)

Top speed

mph

155

Mercedes-AMG GLS: refreshed design features and software updates

Mercedes-AMG is upgrading the GLS 63 and adding to the generous standard equipment. The exclusive equipment and further improved on-road driving dynamics make the GLS 63 the head of the AMG SUV family.

The new model is visually distinguishable by the newly designed LED rear light signature. Two new colors have been added to the range of paint finishes: MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey Non-Metallic and Twilight Blue Metallic. In addition, the front fascia now also bears the AMG emblem on the hood of the vehicle, which is the new hallmark for all future AMG vehicles. Red brake calipers further emphasize the vehicle’s dynamic character. When the front doors are opened, an AMG-specific light animation is displayed with the help of a new logo projector. Wheel sizes range from the standard 21‑inch ten-spoke alloy wheel to optional 22- and 23-inch wheels, including forged designs.

New highlights in the interior

AMG seats and features such as the instrument panel are upholstered in Exclusive Nappa leather. New Bahia Brown/Black and Macchiato Beige/Black are among the available upholstery colorways. For the interior trim, High-Gloss Brown Linden Wood is now also available as an option, in addition to new MANUFAKTUR Piano Lacquer Flowing Lines. The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG GLS also benefits from the latest generation of MBUX, which features AMG-specific screen design and functions that make the brand experience even more tangible.

Significantly more extensive standard equipment

The standard equipment is even more extensive than in the already lavishly equipped predecessor. It includes, among other things, the panoramic sliding sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, Adaptive High Beam Assist and wireless smartphone integration. Also included are the selectable AMG Performance exhaust system, Burmester® surround sound system, 360-degree Surround View system and Blind Spot Assist.

The latest generation of the AMG Performance steering wheel is also fitted standard. The AMG Drive Unit buttons impress with brilliant displays and intuitive operating logic. These allow important driving functions and all driving modes to be controlled without the driver's hands leaving the steering wheel. The steering wheel is heated as standard and is also available with a carbon fiber design.

Customers can also look forward to special equipment features such as the MBUX Augmented Video function, MULTIBEAM LED headlamps and Driver Assistance Package Plus. The list continues with the AIR BALANCE package, multicontour front seats and head-up display. The MBUX Interior Assistant along with heated and cooled front cup holders are also provided as standard.

In the GLS 63, the proven Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine with an output of 603 hp delivers powerful propulsion. Explosive power delivery with finely controlled power output truly sets it apart. For this purpose, the twin-scroll turbochargers are located between the cylinder heads for better response. The cylinder shutoff system noticeably improves efficiency when less power is required.

The Handcrafted engine from Mercedes-AMG has been systematically electrified with a 48-volt auxiliary on-board electrical system and Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). The ISG combines a starter and alternator in one powerful electric motor and is installed between the engine and transmission. The ISG also performs hybrid functions, including boosting, recuperation, load point shifting, gliding and almost imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.

Active roll stabilization with new configuration

The AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension with adaptive adjustable damping is also fitted standard. The AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL active roll stabilization system works with two electro-mechanical actuators at the front and rear axle. The system reduces body roll when cornering, and allows more precise tuning of load change behavior and precision when cornering. It also increases driving comfort when driving in a straight line as one-sided road imperfections are balanced out.

As part of the facelift, the roll stabilization and air suspension also benefit from a software update and a new setup. These measures increase the spread between dynamic handling and comfort. Fine-tuning of the software for the configuration of ESP®, electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential, AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and the suspension control system delivers a dynamic and superior driving experience.

Technical data at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG

 

GLS 63

Engine

 

Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo
with hybrid assist

Displacement

cc

3,982

Output

hp

603
+21 hp (ISG)

at

rpm

5,750-6,500

Torque

lb-ft

627
+184 (ISG)

at

rpm

2,500–4,500

Drive system

 

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution

Transmission

 

AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G

Acceleration 0-60 mph

s

4.1 (est.)

Top speed1

mph

174

Success story: the Tuscaloosa plant

When the Mercedes‑Benz plant in Tuscaloosa was founded in 1995, the site was the first major Mercedes‑Benz plant outside Germany. About two thirds of annual production is exported, making Mercedes‑Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) one of the largest automobile exporters in the U.S. Since 1997, around four million vehicles have rolled off the assembly line at the plant in Tuscaloosa, including 260,000 SUVs produced in 2021 alone.

The Tuscaloosa plant uses modern digital, sustainable, efficient and flexible production methods. The site follows the blueprint of "Factory 56" in Sindelfingen, which symbolizes the future of automotive manufacturing at Mercedes‑Benz. Investments were made in flexible production at an early stage, using the modern digital production ecosystem MO360. This enables Mercedes‑Benz in Tuscaloosa to produce models with combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles in large quantities in parallel.

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About Mercedes Benz
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com.

Accredited journalists can visit our media site at media.mbusa.com.

  1. Electronically limited