- New GLS features a more dominant design highlighting its on and off-road presence.
- Enhanced luxury appointments and seamless driver integration come standard on GLS.
- New, effortless GLS 450 d is now available with updated drivetrain technology for unmatched refinement while on the move.
- Pinnacle of luxury, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is even more exclusive the distinguished buyer
Hot on the heels of the facelift of the GLE and GLE Coupé, the Mercedes‑Benz GLS, and Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC are now also appearing in updated form. Several design, technology, and equipment changes take the comfort, connectivity, and ambiance of this flagship SUV model to the next level.
Mercedes-Benz GLS: visual enhancement and functional off-road features
The latest Mercedes‑Benz GLS models can be recognised by the even more striking radiator grille. The four louvers are galvanized in high-quality Silver Shadow. The bumper is also visually more prominent. It features integrated air inlet grilles, combined with a surround in high-gloss black. The large simulated underguard (standard equipment) has also been redesigned. The eye-catcher at the rear is the interior of the lights with three horizontal blocks. A new 20-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheel in the Himalayas grey with a high-sheen finish has been added to the range of wheels.
As before, the Mercedes‑Benz GLS is a seven-seater as standard. The range of interior trim finishes has also been revised. The trim element MANUFAKTUR glossy black flowing lines piano lacquer, previously reserved for the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, is now also available for the GLS family from Mercedes‑Benz.
The louvres of the centre and side air vents are galvanized in Silver Shadow – another detail that will be familiar from the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS.
Most drivers of a GLS only travel on paved roads or in easy to moderately difficult off-road terrain. Mercedes‑Benz has therefore recompiled the scope of the Off-Road Engineering package. Components include an underride guard and 30 millimeters more ground clearance.
Enhanced driver integration through updated MBUX
The updated generation of the infotainment system MBUX brings with it a new look for the displays. The displays can be individualized with the help of three different styles (classic, sporty, discreet) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). With “classic” the driver is opting for the tried and test two-tube design with all the familiar content between the two round displays. “Sporty” is dominated by the colour red, with a dynamic design for the central rev counter. In “discreet” style, the content is reduced to what is essential. In addition, both displays can be shown in seven colour schemes in conjunction with the ambient lighting. The result is an impressive colour experience in the interior. The central display offers all the same content as hitherto and can be operated directly and conveniently as a touchscreen.
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 Parking Package with 360‑degree camera, it offers the “transparent bonnet” function. When the Offroad mode is active, the central display shows a virtual view under the front of the vehicle. The view is composed of the images from the 360°camera. With the “transparent bonnet”, obstacles such as large stones or deep potholes on the route ahead can be better recognised.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS: extraordinary luxury refined even further.
Vertical chrome bars and the “Maybach” lettering are the distinguishing features of the top model’s high-quality radiator grille. The air inlet grilles feature a Maybach pattern and have a chrome surround. A 23‑inch forged wheel in typical Maybach design with a forged wheel bolt cover is new to the options list.
Another new standard feature is ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes‑Maybach pattern. In the interior, a new design for the seat covers emphasises the particularly luxurious character of the Mercedes‑Maybach. The centre sections of the seat surfaces and backrests now feature high-quality diamond-pattern quilting with specific perforations.
“The latest GLS and GLS Maybach represent the pinnacle of luxury within the upper echelons of the SUV market. The DNA or how we call it – the GNA – of the iconic G Class has been injected into the GLS. The GLS reaffirms itself as an opulent continent cruiser that encapsulates the driver and passengers in iconic luxury. Under the visual enhancements is a state-of-the-art vehicle meticulously crafted by Mercedes-Benz.” Mark Raine, co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa
Further new features of the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Mercedes-Maybach GLS
- New paint finishes sodalite blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR alpine grey non-metallic
- Latest steering wheel generation with touch controls on the spokes
- The voice assistant can also be activated without the keyword “Hey Mercedes”
- With the optional MBUX Multi-Seat Entertainment system, rear-seat occupants experience the same comprehensive range of infotainment and comfort features as those in the front. They have the use of up to three touchscreens, and a variety of intuitive control options such as the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant.
- Two USB ports (optional equipment) with 100 W output in the rear of the centre console
“We are excited to offer the updated Mercedes-Benz GLS and GLS Maybach models to our decerning clientele. These models have been refreshed for 2024 and offer a raft of updates, both visually and under the skin. Updated engines enhance the luxurious driving experience and new technology makes it more engaging to interact with for both the driver and passengers. The GLS models are the definitive iteration of peak luxury within the segment.” Alex Boavida Vice President Sales and Marketing MBSA.
Mercedes-Benz South Africa continues to offer outstanding customer service from every interaction. A vast dealer network and an extensive vehicle portfolio caters to the needs of our customers. New touchpoints in the form of enhanced dealership experiences and
Models and data:
| Mercedes-Benz GLS | GLS 580 4MATIC | GLS 450 d 4MATIC | |
| Displacement | cc | 3982 | 2989 |
| Output | kW | 380 | 270 |
| Add. output (Boost) | kW | 16 | 15 |
| Peak torque | Nm | 730 | 750 |
| at | rpm | 2500-5000 | 1350-2800 |
| Add. torque (Boost) | Nm | 250 | 200 |
| Combined fuel consumption, WLTP | l/100 km | 14.2-13.5 | 9.1-8.0 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | sec | 4.9 | 6.1 |
| Top speed | km/h | 250 | 250 |
| Mercedes-Maybach GLS | GLS 600 4MATIC | |
| Displacement | cc | 3982 |
| Output | kW | 410 |
| Add. output (Boost) | kW | 16 |
| Peak torque | Nm | 770 |
| at | rpm | 2500-4500 |
| Add. torque (Boost) | Nm | 250 |
| Combined fuel consumption, WLTP | l/100 km | 14.2-13.9[4] |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | sec | 4.9 |
| Top speed | km/h | 250 |
Mercedes-Benz GLS Pricing:
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 d
R 2 304 700
Mercedes-Benz GLS 580
R 2 840 600
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600
R 4 500 000
All pricing includes a 5 year/100 000km Service Plan and Maintenance Plan