News / 4 April 2023 / Michael Taylor

Updated Mercedes-Benz GLS – Where peak performance and ultimate luxury meets

Following in the footsteps of other recent model updates, Mercedes-Benz has just upgraded its entire GLS range, including its AMG and Maybach derivatives.

The SUV is expected to go on sale in markets around the world towards the end of the year, though there has yet to be any announcement on when South Africa will receive the facelifted model.

New engines

The engine line-up of the GLS family has seen a few changes over the previous iteration, with the SUV now having four different inputs to choose from.

The AMG and Maybach’s powerplants remain largely unaltered, though the entire range now benefits from the addition of 48V mild-hybrid technology for greater efficiency.

The selection consists of the petrol-powered 450 and 580, and diesel-driven 350d and 450d drivetrains – all of which feature a 9G-tronic automatic gearbox and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive layout.

The 450 produces 280kW and 500Nm and has a fuel consumption of 10.2l/100km. It can reach 100km/h in 6.1 seconds as well as a top speed of 250km/h.

The 580, in comparison, puts out 380kW and 730Nm, though it is the thirstiest of the engines with a consumption of 13.4l/100km. With this model, 100km/h arrives in 4.9 seconds.

Both the diesel units offer a much better fuel usage of 8.0l/100km, with the 350d offering 230kW and 650Nm while the 450d makes do with 270kW and 750Nm.

Consequently, the two powertrains’ acceleration times are pegged at 6.7 and 6.1 seconds, respectively, and the 350d is the only GLS with a lower max speed of 238km/h.

As previously mentioned, the AMG is still holding onto its 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, which is capable of putting out 450kW and 850Nm while consuming petrol at a rate of 12.8l/100km.

Naturally, this makes it faster than the other GLS variants, sprinting from 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds while capping out at 280km/h.

It’s a similar story with the Maybach, which also has a 4.0-litre, turbo-petrol engine with 410kW and 730Nm at its disposal.

The Maybach surprisingly matches the AMG’s acceleration, though it maxes out at 250km/h and its drinking habit works out to 13.8l/100km.

Enhanced features

The flagship Mercedes SUV’s look has been updated with a galvanized silver-shadow radiator grille, integrated air inlets, 20-inch light alloy wheels in Himalayas grey, and a high-gloss black finish to several exterior components.

The seven-seater now has a choice of two leather upholstery colours – Catalana beige and Bahia brown – and the trim features a gloss wood and piano lacquer finish, which was previously reserved for the Maybach.

The air vents are finished in galvanized silver, and the dashboard sports an updated MBUX system with two displays for the driver and infotainment.

Other features include a 360-degree camera, Off-Road driving mode with an on-board compass and inclination display, and Trailer Maneuver Assist.

The ultra-luxurious Maybach has also had a few changes, including a new sodalite metallic blue paint scheme, additional USB ports in the rear, and an “energizing air control” climate control system with two-stage filters, which was previously an optional extra.

The rear seat entertainment screens are now running the latest version of the MBUX operating system, too.

Finally, the AMG is decked out with a new set of reverse LED lights, multibeam LED headlights, red brake calipers, a performance exhaust, and 21-inch, 10-spoke alloy rims. It also has two new colour schemes – alpine grey and sodalite blue – and the Mercedes star at the front has been replaced by an AMG badge.

New puddle lamp projectors will also play an AMG-themed light animation whenever the doors are opened.

Standard equipment on the sporty model comprises adaptive suspension, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, a Burmester sound system, a 360-degree camera, keyless go, and blind-spot assist.

A heated steering wheel can be had as an optional extra, and it can also be customized to have a carbon fibre finish.

The new Mercedes GLS is expected to go on sale worldwide from October 2023, and Mercedes-Benz South Africa is expected to make an announcement on the local availability closer to the global launch date.