What’s new?

Several design, technology and equipment changes take the comfort, connectivity and ambience of this flagship SUV model to the next level, the manufacturer says.

Exterior:

Mercedes-Benz GLS boasts several visual enhancements with a new, more striking radiator grille. The bumper is also visually more prominent. It features integrated air-inlet grilles, combined with a surround in high-gloss black. The large, simulated under guard (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 Himalayas grey with a high-sheen finish has been added to the range of wheels.

Interior:

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 galvanised 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 millimetres more ground clearance.

Equipment:

The updated generation of the infotainment system, MBUX, brings with it a new look for the displays. The displays can be individualised with the help of three different styles (classic, sporty, discreet) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).

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 a 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.

… and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS:

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 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.

Models and prices:

• Mercedes-Benz GLS:

GLS 580 4MATIC - 4 litre V8 turbo petrol, delivering 380 kW and 780 Nm - R2 840 600.

GLS 450d 4MATIC – 3 litre turbodiesel, delivering 270 kW and 750 Nm - R2 304 700.

• Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600:

GLS 600 – 4 litre V8 turbo petrol, delivering 410 kW and 770 Nm – R4 500 000.