Mercedes-Benz has facelifted yet another one of its SUVs, this time the GLS, shortly after launching updated versions of the GLA, GLB, and GLE.
The visual updates made to the 2024 GLS aren’t revolutionary but do garner attention. The front end, for example, is now highlighted by a large grille with four horizontal louvers with a Silver Shadow finish. Mercedes-Benz’s designers have also taken inspiration from the refreshed GLE with tweaks to the front air intakes and the surrounds.
Changes made to the rear are more subtle and consist of new taillights. The new GLS can also now be ordered with 20-inch multi-spoke wheels with a Himalayas Grey finish.
We’ve long been fans of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system and for the 2024 GLS, it has been updated and can be individualized in three different styles. An Off-Road Mode has also been incorporated into the system the showcases gradient, lateral inclination, compass, and steering angle details. Models equipped with the Parking Package and 360-degree camera also have a ‘transparent bonnet’ function that shows a virtual view under the front of the SUV. A new Trailer Maneuvering Assist system has been added as well..
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS comes standard as a seven-seater, has two new leather colors available and comes with glossy brown lime wood as standard. Gloss black piano lacquer elements have also been lifted from the pre-facelift Maybach GLS 600 to the rest of the GLS family.
Mercedes-Benz has also updated the Off-Road Engineering Package to include an underride guard and 30 mm of additional ground clearance.
Read: The Window Trim On Your Mercedes GLE And GLS Needs To Be Repaired Again
In Europe, the updated model will be offered in GLS 450 4Matic, GLS 580 4Matic, GLS 350d 4Matic, and GLS 450d 4Matic guises. The entry-level model is good for 381 hp and 367 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque while the GLS 580 4Matic is rated at 517 hp and 538 lb-ft (730 Nm), the GLS 350d 4Matic has 269 hp and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm), and the GLS 450d 4Matic is good for 367 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm). All models also have a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that adds an extra 20 hp and 147 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque, although the GLS 580 4Matic gets a 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) torque boost from the electric motor.
Then we get to the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+. It can be immediately distinguished from lesser models thanks to the more aggressive panels, as well as its rear LED light signature. Two new colors of Manufaktur Alpine Grey Non-Metallic and Sodalite Blue Metallic are also available.
A host of features now come as standard equipment on the GLS 63 4Matic+. These include a panoramic sunroof, AMG Performance exhaust system, Burmester sound system, heated and climatized front seats, a Memory package, and 360-degree Parking Pilot. Mercedes-AMG has also updated the software for the roll stabilization and air suspension systems to increase the spread between the dynamic handling and comfort settings. Tweaks have also been made to the ESP, electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential, and the all-wheel drive system.
Continuing to power the GLS 63 4Matic+ is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 rated at 612 hp and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque, plus an additional 22 hp and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) from the 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It is good for 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).
