2024 Mercedes GLS Arrives To Fight The BMW X7 With Refreshed Styling, More Power, And New Levels Of Luxury

Apr. 03, 2023 9:00 PM ET by Jarryd Neves Reveal / 15 Comments

The GLS 63 AMG should handle even more sharply, the Maybach benefits from a plusher interior, and the regular GLS gets a healthy horsepower boost.

Subtle exterior revisions include new bumper designs and revised lighting elements
AMG and Maybach engines are unchanged, but GLS 450 and 580 models benefit from more horsepower
Latest-generation MBUX infotainment system
New exterior paint colors and interior leather upholstery options available
Arrives at dealerships later this year

Mercedes-Benz has lifted the lid on the revised GLS-Class lineup, which arrives for MY2024 with revised exterior styling, improved technology, and even more scope for personalization. The regular GLS, ultra-luxury Maybach GLS 600, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63 have benefitted from this mid-cycle update, making the big Benz an even greater threat to the competent BMW X7.

The automaker has revealed several updates in recent weeks, and, like the rest of them, the changes made to the GLS are rather subtle. Before we get into any cosmetic revisions, let's take a look at what's happening under the hood. The AMG GLS 63's power outputs remain unchanged, with the 4.0-liter V8 still producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

Thanks to the Integrated Starter Generator, an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft are added into the mix under certain conditions. Despite its size and heft, this leviathan can rocket to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds before hitting the electronic limiter at 174 mph.

Mercedes-Benz

What has changed, however, is the GLS 63's dynamic capabilities. The roll stabilization and standard air suspension have received a software update and revised setup. According to the automaker, this has increased the spread between dynamic handling and comfort, providing the sporty GLS with an even greater breadth of abilities.

The software for the 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system, ESP, and electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential have also been enhanced. As a reminder, the GLS 63 receives Active Ride Control - which minimizes body roll during cornering - as standard. Mercedes-Benz makes no mention of mechanical changes to the Maybach GLS, which gains motivation from a 550-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 538 lb-ft.

It's a different story for the regular GLS. The entry-level 450 now produces 375 hp (13 more than before). Torque remains unchanged at 369 lb-ft of torque. In the 580, buyers can look forward to 510 horses and 538 lb-ft. The same changes were made to the facelifted GLE-Class, which was updated earlier this year.

Mercedes-Benz

Minor exterior updates modernize the exterior of the GLS. Up front, you'll find a redesigned radiator grille which now features four prominent louvers in a Silver Shadow finish. The front bumper includes integrated air vents which, together with the high-gloss black surround, gives the seven-seater a more aggressive persona.

Changes at the rear have been kept to a minimum, with new LED taillights with restyled lighting elements. The GLS, Maybach GLS 600, and GLS 63 AMG benefit from new paint colors, including Twilight Blue Metallic and Manufaktur Alpine Grey. The high-end Maybach takes things a step further. To complement the model-specific traditional grille, the GLS 600 gains a new air inlet grille design that features the Maybach pattern and chrome trimmings.

Buyers can also choose from a new 23-inch forged wheel, available at extra cost. The menacing AMG receives a redesigned LED light signature at the rear, along with an AMG emblem on the hood, an addition that is being applied to all new models from Affalterbach's sporty division.

Mercedes-Benz

To underscore the sporting nature of the 63 variant, Mercedes has also fitted red brake calipers. As before, the GLS 63 receives 21-inch wheels as standard, with 22- and 23-inch alloys available at extra cost.

Inside, you'll find even more standard equipment and personalization options. The AMG receives performance seats that can be specified in Macchiato Beige/Black or the new Bahia Brown/Black colorway, among other shades. Interior decorations now include the classy Manufaktur Piano Lacquer Flowing lines (previously a Maybach GLS 600 exclusive) and High-Gloss Brown Linden Wood.

The latest AMG Performance heated steering wheel is now standard and can be trimmed in carbon fiber.

Of course, the MBUX infotainment system has been updated to the latest generation, with the GLS 63 benefiting from AMG-specific designs and functions. Already a well-equipped brute, Mercedes has bolstered the high-performance SUV's equipment levels with standard heated and ventilated front seats, along with a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone integration, and Adaptive High Beam Assist.

Mercedes-Benz

Options include an AMG Performance exhaust and the Burmester surround sound system, among other things.

But if you want a truly luxurious experience, it's the Maybach GLS 600 that you'll be interested in. Mercedes has heightened the luxurious ambiance by applying a new diamond quilt pattern to the center sections of the seats and backrests. Buyers can choose from Manufaktur leather upholstery, including Crystal White/Silver Grey Pearl and Mahogany Brown/Macchiato Beige Nappa leather, which are both reserved for this luxury model.

As standard, the Maybach GLS gains a new ambient lighting design that projects the Mercedes-Maybach pattern. The regular GLS-Class interior has been spruced up too. Like the AMG, it too can be specified with new trim inlays and leather upholstery finishes, including Catalana Beige and Bahia Brown.

The Silver Shadow hue, applied to the center and side air vents, has been lifted straight from the Maybach. Other changes include a new steering wheel with touch controls on the spokes and two 100W USB ports for rear passengers.

Mercedes-Benz

As mentioned, the MBUX system has been updated and brings several configurable looks (Classic, Sporty, and Discreet) for owners to choose between. Classic provides all the necessary vehicle information, while Discreet shows only the essential data. Sporty sets itself apart with racy red accents and a central tachometer.

There's also an Off-Road Mode, which presents all sorts of useful information, including steering angle, lateral inclination, and gradient, packaging it into an immersive visual display. While few are likely to venture off-road with the GLS, it is packed with several features aimed at making dirt driving easier. The Surround View 360-degree camera has a "transparent hood" function that lets drivers spot potential obstacles far earlier than before.

Lastly, the GLS 580 can be equipped with an Off-Road Engineering Package which provides an additional 1.2 inches of ground clearance, along with an underride guard.

Pricing is yet to be revealed, but we expect it to be in line with 2023 pricing when the revised GLS models hit dealerships later this year.