GLS-Class SUV

Segment
SUV

The refreshed design of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has leaked ahead of the scheduled reveal in April.

A rough image, published by the Instagram account @Cochespias1 but originating from another by the name of @pershoo, shows a lightly revised front fascia. The German automaker has blessed the luxury three-row SUV with more sculpted headlamps, bringing the vehicle in line with the rest of the contemporary Benz range.

The grille has also been adapted and appears brasher than before. Four horizontal bars provide the GLS with an imposing look, but we anticipate different grille designs - such as the Star and Panamericana patterns - will be available for AMG and AMG Line variants.

Elsewhere, the lower elements of the front bumper have also been slightly changed. The vents, along with the trim and license plate holder, have also been reshaped for the new model year.

Like the recently updated GLE-Class, it appears as if Mercedes will be keeping things simple with the GLS-Class facelift. In another Instagram post by @liucunyi_starandcar, we see the same image with wheels, revealing a classic dual five-spoke design. We suspect new wheels will also be available.

While we can't see it in the leaked images, if it mirrors the smaller GLE, we can expect a subtly tweaked rear end. The smaller Mercedes SUV also received more powerful engines, including a compact 2.0-liter. We doubt the large GLS will receive this admittedly powerful four-cylinder, but it's safe to assume it will gain the updated 450 and 580 powerplants. In the GLE, these options have been given a power boost and now produce 375 and 510 horsepower, respectively.

Hopefully, Mercedes will add the 400e plug-in hybrid setup to the 2024 GLS. With 381 horses on tap, it nicely blends electrification and ample power.

Inside, the plush cabin will almost certainly benefit from a new steering wheel design, Maybach-inspired touches around the air vents, and, perhaps, new color schemes for the upholstery. Mercedes has also given the GLE the updated MBUX infotainment system that now boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

While the facelifted GLE is almost a disappointment compared to the heavily revised BMW X5 and X6, the GLS-Class will compete with the larger X7. BMW's biggest offering is certainly luxurious, but last year's facelift brought a controversial look with split headlights and a more aggressive persona.

The more conservative GLS-Class will appeal to those with more subtle tastes and, thanks to the expected bump in technology and comfort, can finally go head-to-head with the X7 without feeling outdated or stodgy.