Since 2016, the GLS has been at the top of the Mercedes SUV lineup. That year, the GL, launched in 2012, underwent a name change to better harmonize the range around the common name. GL, which stands for Geländewagen, is a nod to the very first G-Class launched in 1975. This abbreviation means “all-terrain vehicle”, and the abbreviation Mercedes chose for a number of… off-road vehicles. So the old GLK became the GLC, the ML changed to the GLE, and the GL to the GLS, so. This is the last SUV in the line, if you exclude the much more elite G-Class, and especially 4X4. The GLA and GLB rounded out the range, although the latter denoted a minivan. Let’s figure out who can. Anyway, The GLS/ex-GL is currently undergoing a facelift, just four years after the launch of its current generation.

Evolution in small strokes

As we are used to the latest restyling of Class A / Class B and GLA / GLB external changes are quite minimal. At the front, the spotlights are unchanged, but the nose is equipped with a an enlarged grille and a new shield. This is less true at the rear, with tapered headlights and a new light signature. We will also note the appearance of 20-inch wheels, as well as two new body colors – blue and gray. Mercedes-Benz also equips it with a new Off-Road package that gives it more of an adventurer look. Road clearance up to 3 cm, here and there plastic shields. On board, it is also quite minimalistic. Two new upholstery colors one beige, the other brown were added. As on the latest novelties of the brand, it is built-in MBUX multimedia system update.

All engines are electric

Under the hood, all engines get 48V electrification. In fact, there are two engines: GLS 450 with a capacity of 381 horsepower and GLS 580 with a capacity of 517 horsepower. Not forgetting, of course, the radical option 63 AMG and its 612 stallions. Two diesel engines are available: 350d with 269 horsepower and 450d with 367 horsepower. The ultra-luxury version is at the top of the range The Maybach 600 retained its 557-horsepower gasoline engine. This “new” GLS, however, ignores the battery hybrid engine and will therefore be content with micro-hybrid units for the rest of its career. The prices of this mastodon over 5.20 meters have not yet been announced.. The current GLS starts for comparison with more than 110,000 eurosburdened with an environmental fine, and a weight fine… Expected in concessions in the fall.