The flagship Mercedes-Benz GLS has been given an update for 2024. Here’s a look at what’s changed across the range.

Mercedes-Benz has been hard at work updating its SUV range, and we’ve seen facelifts of the GLA, GLB and GLE. Now its the turn of the 7-seater GLS, which gains some mild tweaks in terms of design, specification and options. The AMG and Maybach derivatives also gain some updates, which we’ll touch on in this article.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets a new-look front with a new large grille finished in Silver Shadow. The air intakes get some revisions too, while the rear gains new tail-lamps. The new GLS is now available with 20-inch alloy wheels.

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Inside, the MBUX infotainment system has been given an update and an offroad-mode has been added too. The Off-Road engineering package now includes an underride guard and 30 mm additional ground clearance. If you tow frequently, you’ll appreciate the new trailer maneuvering assist system. Customers can choose from two new leather colours.

The European lineup will comprise GLS 450 4Matic (280 kW/500 Nm), GLS 580 4Matic (380 kW / 730 Nm), GLS 350d 4Matic (230 kW / 650 Nm) and GLS 450d 4Matic (270 kW / 750 Nm). For the performance fanatics, the GLS 63 4Matic+ has made a return. All models feature a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that adds 15 kW and 200 Nm for short periods.

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The GLS 63 4Matic+ is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine which develops 450 kW and 850 Nm, and its able to sprint to 100 kph in a claimed 4.2 seconds. The standard equipment list for the GLS 63 4Matic+ has grown to now include a panoramic sunroof, AMG performance exhaust, Burmester sound system, heated/cooled front seats, memory package and 360-degree parking pilot. AMG says the software for the air suspension and roll stabilisation has been tweaked for enhanced handling and comfort.

Maybach-Mercedes GLS Facelifted

The luxury Maybach-Mercedes GLS has also received some updates, both externally and inside. There’s a new lower grille with chrome surrounds and its been repositioned. There are new air intakes and customers can choose from new 23-inch forged wheels. There are new lights that projects the Maybach logo onto the road when the doors are opened.

Inside, there are new seat covers with diamond-pattern quilting on the plush leather seats. Customers can choose from two new exterior colours and there’s a new steering wheel. The MBUX Multi-seat entertainment system features three touchscreens, two USB ports, 100W device charger and a two-stage air filter to help keep the dust out.

Mercedes-Maybach is offering the GLS with just one engine, which is the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 which produces 410 kW and 730 Nm. It too features a 48V mild-hybrid system and is good for a 0-100 kph in 4.2 seconds.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Coming to SA?

As it stands, we have had zero indication of the new flagship 7-seater SUV arriving on our shores. The American market will be receiving this model in the middle of September 2023, so if we were to have a guess, we expect the newcomer to be touching down in early 2024.