Mercedes-Benz's Flagship SUV, the GLS, Receives an Update
Mercedes-Benz Japan has announced and begun sales of the updated GLS SUV and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Electrification Across All Models with ISG
As its name suggests, with "GL" denoting Mercedes-Benz SUVs and "S" indicating its top-tier status, the GLS, Mercedes-Benz's most premium SUV, has undergone a minor change.
Mercedes-Benz's lineup includes the GLS 400d 4MATIC with a 3-liter inline-six diesel turbo engine, the GLS 580 Sport with a 3-liter inline-six gasoline turbo engine, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ with a 4-liter V8 gasoline twin-turbo engine. For ultimate luxury, Mercedes-Maybach offers the GLS 600 4MATIC, also powered by a 4-liter V8 gasoline twin-turbo engine.
This minor update includes exterior design revisions. The GLS 400d 4MATIC is now paired with a mild-hybrid system ISG, becoming the GLS 450d 4MATIC, thus electrifying all models.
Furthermore, all models now come standard with the "MUBX" conversational infotainment system, "MBUX AR Navigation" which displays real-world scenery on the navigation screen for more intuitive use, and a 360° camera system with "Transparent Bonnet" functionality that virtually projects the view of the road beneath the front of the car, useful for off-road situations.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 Sport
Let's look at the details of the changes within the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
For the GLS 450 and GLS 580, the facelift includes a new front grille with four powerful horizontal louvers, a redesigned front bumper and air intakes, and updated wheels. The taillight design has also been modified across all models, including the GLS 63.
Inside, the Burmester® surround sound system is now standard on all models, and the doors are equipped with a soft-close function for effortless and secure closing.
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+
For the engines, all models, including the Maybach, feature an electric motor between the engine and transmission, producing a maximum output of 16 kW and 200 Nm of torque. This motor, combined with the "48V electrical system," also functions as an alternator and starter, charging a lithium-ion battery with approximately 1 kWh capacity through regenerative braking.
When the engine is at low RPMs, this electrical power is used to supplement propulsion, contributing to efficiency, strong acceleration, and enhanced quietness.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, a thoroughly refined version based on the GLS and finished as the ultimate luxury SUV, features a revised design for the internal elements of the rear combination lamps. The interior seats have been updated with a new design featuring diamond stitching, creating an even more luxurious ambiance.
Pricing is as follows: the GLS 450d 4MATIC is ¥15.3 million, the GLS 580 Sport is ¥20.3 million, the AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ is ¥27.8 million, and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is ¥32.2 million.
