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. 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 500 Nm of torque while the
GLS 580 4Matic is rated at 517 hp and 730 Nm, the GLS 350d 4Matic
has 269 hp and 650 Nm, and the GLS 450d 4Matic is good for 367 hp
and 750 Nm. All models also have a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that
adds an extra 20 hp and 200 Nm of torque, although the GLS 580
4Matic gets a 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 850 Nm of
torque, plus an additional 22 hp and 250 Nm from the 48-volt
mild-hybrid system. It is good for 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a limited
top speed of 280 km/h.
