New Mercedes GLS Redesign: Perfect, Ultimate SUV
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS redesign truly elevates this icon, solidifying its position as the ultimate luxury SUV. With enhanced technology, refined comfort, and more powerful performance, it offers an unparalleled driving experience combining spaciousness with sophisticated engineering.
Mercedes-Benz has once again raised the bar for luxury SUVs with the latest redesign of the GLS. If you’re seeking a vehicle that masterfully blends family-friendly spaciousness with cutting-edge technology and opulent comfort, the GLS is designed for you. Many drivers find that choosing the perfect SUV can be overwhelming, but understanding the GLS’s enhancements makes the decision clear. This guide will walk you through everything that makes the new GLS the ultimate choice, from its advanced safety features to its impressive performance capabilities. Get ready to discover why this redesign is a game-changer in its segment.
What is the Mercedes GLS?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size luxury SUV that serves as the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s sport utility vehicle lineup. It’s often referred to as the “S-Class of SUVs” due to its luxurious appointments, advanced technology, and comfortable ride, offering seating for up to seven passengers.
What are the key updates in the new Mercedes GLS redesign?
The latest GLS redesign brings significant updates focusing on enhanced MBUX infotainment, updated powertrain options with mild-hybrid technology, refined interior materials, and advanced driver assistance systems. The exterior also receives subtle styling tweaks for a more modern and imposing presence.
Is the new Mercedes GLS good for families?
Absolutely. The GLS is designed with families in mind, offering ample passenger and cargo space across three rows. Its advanced safety features, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology make it an ideal choice for daily commutes and long road trips alike.
What engine options are available for the new GLS?
The new GLS typically offers a range of powerful yet efficient engines, including inline-six and V8 options, often paired with Mercedes-Benz’s innovative 48-volt mild-hybrid system (EQ Boost) for improved performance and fuel economy.
How does the GLS compare to its competitors?
The GLS competes with other large luxury SUVs like the BMW X7, Audi Q7, and Cadillac Escalade. Its strengths lie in its refined interior, advanced technology, and smooth ride, often offering a more comfortable and luxurious experience than some rivals.
Can you get the GLS with all-wheel drive?
Yes, the GLS comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.
What is the price range for the new Mercedes GLS?
Pricing for the new GLS varies depending on the trim level, optional packages, and chosen engine. As a flagship luxury SUV, it represents a significant investment, with base models starting in the six-figure range and higher trims with more options exceeding that.
The New Mercedes GLS Redesign: A Masterclass in SUV Evolution
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has long been a benchmark for large luxury SUVs, offering unparalleled comfort, space, and technology. With the latest redesign, Mercedes-Benz has not just updated this flagship model; they have redefined it. This is more than just a facelift; it’s a comprehensive evolution that solidifies the GLS’s position as the ultimate SUV for those who demand the best. From the moment you approach it, the redesigned GLS exudes an imposing yet elegant presence, hinting at the luxury and capability that lie within.
This isn’t just about looking good; it’s about a meticulously engineered package designed to provide an exceptional experience for drivers and passengers alike. Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a cross-country adventure, or simply enjoying a family outing, the GLS delivers. Let’s dive into the specifics that make the new Mercedes GLS redesign so compelling.
Exterior Evolution: A Command of the Road
The exterior of the new GLS redesign strikes a perfect balance between commanding presence and refined elegance. Mercedes-Benz has subtly yet effectively updated the styling to give it a more contemporary and distinct look, ensuring it stands out in any environment.
Front Fascia: The grille is more prominent, often featuring vertical louvers that convey strength and prestige. The updated LED headlights are sharper, with distinctive daytime running light signatures that enhance its recognizable silhouette. Air intakes are sculpted to improve aerodynamics and cooling, contributing to both form and function.
Side Profile: The GLS maintains its substantial proportions, emphasizing its generous interior volume. Crisp character lines flow elegantly from front to rear, while optional larger alloy wheels (often up to 23 inches) add to its assertive stance. The characteristic upright roofline ensures maximum headroom for all occupants.
Rear Design: The taillights feature updated LED graphics, mirroring the front’s modern aesthetic. A chrome strip often bridges the taillights, enhancing the vehicle’s perceived width and sophistication. The integrated exhausttips and a redesigned bumper complete the upscale and powerful rear appearance.
Interior Sanctuary: Luxury Redefined for Seven
Step inside the new Mercedes GLS, and you enter a sanctuary of comfort, quality, and advanced technology. The cabin is meticulously crafted to pamper occupants, offering spaciousness unparalleled in its class, even for the third row.
Premium Materials: Expect the finest materials, including supple Nappa leather upholstery, genuine wood trims, and meticulously finished metal accents. The attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the stitching on the seats to the feel of the buttons.
Spacious Seating: The GLS comfortably seats up to seven passengers. The first and second rows offer ample legroom and headroom, with power-adjustable seats that include heating and ventilation for ultimate comfort. The third row is surprisingly accommodating for adults on shorter journeys, a rarity in the SUV segment.
Ergonomics and Ambiance: Every control is intuitively placed, and the overall layout is clean and uncluttered. The ambient lighting system, with its vast array of customizable colors, can transform the cabin’s mood to suit any occasion. Enhanced sound deadening further contributes to a serene and quiet ride.
Seating Configuration and Flexibility
The GLS excels in its ability to adapt to various needs. The second and third rows feature power-folding capabilities, allowing for effortless configuration changes to maximize cargo space or ease of access.
Standard Configuration:
Row 1: Two captain’s chairs (Driver & Front Passenger)
Row 2: Bench seat for 3 passengers (standard) or captain’s chairs for 2 passengers (optional)
Row 3: Bench seat for 2 passengers
Maximum Cargo Space: With both the second and third rows folded flat, the GLS offers an expansive cargo area, perfect for hauling luggage, sporting equipment, or even large purchases.
Technological Marvel: The MBUX System and Beyond
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its pioneering technology, and the new GLS redesign is no exception. The centerpiece is the latest evolution of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which is more intelligent, intuitive, and integrated than ever before.
Dual Screen Setup: A prominent feature is the large, seamless display that spans from the driver’s instrument cluster to the center console. This typically consists of two 12.3-inch screens under a single glass panel, offering crystal-clear graphics and responsive touch control.
Intuitive Controls: The MBUX system can be controlled via touch screen, the steering wheel’s touch control buttons, or the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. This natural language voice control allows you to adjust climate settings, navigate, change music, and much more, simply by speaking.
Augmented Reality Navigation: For an even more intuitive navigation experience, the GLS can optionally feature augmented reality. This overlays navigation arrows and street names onto a live video feed from the front of the car, making complex intersections easier to understand.
Connectivity and Entertainment: Staying connected is effortless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, multiple USB ports, and available wireless charging. For rear passengers, optional entertainment screens provide individual media access and gaming capabilities.
Performance and Powertrain: Effortless Power, Enhanced Efficiency
Underneath its luxurious skin, the new GLS packs a punch. Mercedes-Benz offers a refined powertrain lineup, balancing potent performance with impressive efficiency and a quintessentially smooth Mercedes-Benz ride.
Powertrain Options
The GLS typically features robust engines enhanced by Mercedes-Benz’s mild-hybrid technology, known as EQ Boost. This system uses a 48-volt integrated starter-generator to provide an electric boost, smooth out gear changes, and enable functions like intelligent engine start/stop.
| Engine Option (May vary by market/year) | Horsepower (approx.) | Torque (approx.) | Drivetrain | Transmission |
| :————————————– | :——————- | :————— | :————– | :—————————— |
| GLS 450 4MATIC | 375 hp | 369 lb-ft | 4MATIC AWD | 9G-TRONIC Automatic |
| GLS 580 4MATIC | 483 hp | 516 lb-ft | 4MATIC AWD | 9G-TRONIC Automatic |
| AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ | 603 hp | 627 lb-ft | 4MATIC+ AWD | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed Auto |
Note: Specifications are subject to change and can vary by model year and region. Always consult official Mercedes-Benz documentation for precise details.
GLS 450 4MATIC: This is the entry point, offering a potent inline-six engine paired with EQ Boost. It provides more than enough power for daily driving and comfortable cruising, with smooth acceleration and excellent refinement.
GLS 580 4MATIC: Moving up, the GLS 580 features a powerful V8 engine, also enhanced by EQ Boost. This option delivers significantly more acceleration and towing capability, fitting for the flagship SUV.
AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+: For those seeking ultimate performance, the AMG GLS 63 takes the GLS experience to exhilarating new heights. It boasts a hand-built AMG V8 engine, retuned suspension, and performance-oriented AMG systems for a truly dynamic driving experience.
E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL
A standout feature that elevates the GLS’s ride quality is the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension. This advanced system uses a stereo camera to scan the road ahead, proactively adjusting each wheel’s suspension dynamically. It can lean into corners, counteract body roll, and even “rock” the vehicle out of sand, providing an incredibly smooth and stable ride that feels almost unreal. For more information on advanced suspension systems, you can explore resources from institutions like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which often discusses safety and technology in vehicles.
Safety Suite: Protecting What Matters Most
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety above all else, and the new GLS redesign is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) designed to protect you and your passengers.
Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: This adaptive cruise control system can maintain a set speed and distance to the vehicle in front, automatically braking and accelerating as needed, making highway driving far less fatiguing.
Active Steering Assist: Working in conjunction with DISTRONIC, this system can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, even on curves, providing additional steering support.
Active Brake Assist: This system can detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t react, helping to mitigate or avoid accidents.
Blind Spot Assist: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes.
Traffic Sign Assist: Recognizes and displays speed limits and other traffic signs to keep you informed.
360-Degree Camera: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier and safer.
These systems, along with a robust body structure and multiple airbags, contribute to the GLS’s excellent safety credentials, offering peace of mind for every journey.
Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Capability
The GLS delivers a driving experience that perfectly encapsulates its “S-Class of SUVs” moniker. It prioritizes serene comfort and effortless cruising, yet possesses the capability to handle various conditions with confidence.
Smooth and Quiet Ride: Thanks to its advanced suspension systems (especially with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL) and extensive sound insulation, the GLS isolates occupants exceptionally well from road noise and imperfections. It feels planted and supremely comfortable, even on rougher surfaces.
Effortless Acceleration: The available powertrains provide ample power for swift acceleration, whether merging onto a highway or overtaking slower vehicles. The 9-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and unobtrusively, contributing to the overall sense of refinement.
Confident Handling: While its size might suggest otherwise, the GLS handles with surprising agility for a vehicle of its class. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip, and the steering is precise, providing a secure feeling behind the wheel.
Off-Road Capability: While primarily a luxury cruiser, the GLS is equipped with 4MATIC AWD and often features off-road driving modes that can adjust drivetrain settings for improved traction on uneven terrain, making it capable of light off-roading.
Why the New GLS Redesign is the Ultimate SUV
The latest redesign of the Mercedes-Benz GLS solidifies its status as the ultimate SUV for discerning drivers. It masterfully combines:
Unrivaled Luxury: From the premium materials and spacious seating for seven to the serene ambiance, the interior is a testament to automotive craftsmanship.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The intuitive MBUX system, augmented reality navigation, and comprehensive ADAS ensure you’re always connected, informed, and safe.
Exceptional Comfort: The ride quality, particularly with optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, is simply outstanding, making long journeys feel effortless.
Potent Performance: The range of engines, enhanced by mild-hybrid technology, provides brisk acceleration and confident power delivery.
* Versatile Space: With flexible seating and generous cargo capacity, the GLS effortlessly accommodates families, luggage, and adventure gear.
It’s a vehicle that doesn’t compromise, offering a perfect synthesis of opulence, innovation, and practicality. For those seeking the pinnacle of the SUV experience, the new Mercedes GLS redesign is not just a choice; it’s the definitive answer.
Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Luxury SUVs
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS redesign represents a significant leap forward, reinforcing its position as the ultimate large luxury SUV on the market. It’s a vehicle that excels in every conceivable aspect, from its commanding exterior presence and sumptuously appointed interior to its advanced technological integrations and powerful, yet refined, performance. The thoughtful evolution of its design, coupled with Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to comfort, safety, and innovation, makes the GLS an unparalleled choice for families and individuals who demand the absolute best.
Whether you prioritize a smooth and quiet ride for long journeys, the latest in infotainment and driver assistance, or simply the prestige of driving a finely crafted machine, the new GLS delivers. It’s an SUV that truly redefines what’s possible, offering an experience that is both deeply luxurious and incredibly functional. The latest GLS is more than just a car; it’s a statement of arrival, a haven of tranquility, and a capable partner for life’s many adventures. It embodies the culmination of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and design philosophy, setting a new standard for the segment.
