BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the facelift of the GLS with a number of new design features, upgraded equipment and a fully electrified engine portfolio with 48-volt technology.
What’s new?
The latest Mercedes-Benz GLS models come with a more aggressive looking radiator grille. The four louvres are galvanised in high-quality Silver Shadow. It features integrated air inlet grilles, combined with a surround in high-gloss black. It features a redesigned under-guard. New 20-inch multi-spoke light alloy wheels will carry the GLS.
When it comes to the interior of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS, you’re welcomed by the highest quality of detail and comfort. It is available with a wide range of interior trim finishes and will bolster two new leather colours.
The infotainment system, MBUX, in the Mercedes-Benz GLS brings a new look for the displays. The displays can be individualised with the help of three different styles (classic, sporty and discreet) and has three modes (Navigation, Assistance and Service).
The “classic” is mainly for the driver opting for familiar content between the two displays. “Sporty” is dominated by the colour red, a dynamic design for the central rev counter. In “discreet” style, the content is reduced to what is essential.
The GLS also has a voice assistant that can be activated without the keyword “Hey Mercedes”, it features the latest steering wheel generation with touch controls on the spokes and these are just a few of the features on the Mercedes-Benz GLS range.
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, which is very helpful when avoiding potholes.
Model Range: Power and Acceleration 0-100 km/h:
GLS 450 4MATIC: 280kW / 6.1 seconds
GLS 580 4MATIC: 380kW /4.9 seconds
GLS 350 d 4MATIC: 230kW / 6.7 seconds
GLS 450 d 4MATIC: 270kW / 6.1 seconds
The upgraded Mercedes-Benz GLS will be available in Q4 2023/ Q1 2024 for South African customers. However, it has not yet been confirmed which Mercedes-Benz GLS models will be available for the South African market.
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
Retail new vehicle sales continue to surge in South Africa despite global and regional conflicts, local floods and droughts.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout performance in March 2026, extending its domestic growth trajectory to the strongest level seen in nearly two decades.
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