Mercedes-Benz GLS (X167)

The Mercedes-Benz GLS (X167) is the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLS full-sized luxury crossover SUV produced since October 2019. It replaces the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class/GLS (X166).

Development and launch

The third generation X167 GLS debuted at the 2019 New York International Auto Show. It is launched in October 2019 in the United States and at the end of 2019 for Europe and rest of the world. The X167 is 7.7 cm longer and 2.2 cm wider than X166. The wheelbase is 6 cm longer, which increases interior space for the second row seats. Additionally, X167 GLS is first SUV from Mercedes-Benz to have fully electrically adjustable three rows of seats and to offer the optional six-seat configuration with captain seats for second row. The second and third row seats can be folded electrically flat with a touch of a button.[5]

Models

Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic

A first Maybach version of the GLS, the GLS 600 4Matic, was unveiled at 2019 Guangzhou International Motor Show on 21 November 2019.[6] The engine is a detuned version of the M177 V8 Biturbo found in the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+, but with a 48-Volt mild hybrid system. Although Mercedes-Benz has registered both GLS 600 4Matic and GLS 680 4Matic nomenclatures, the latter was designated exclusively to the Chinese market due to the auspicious nature of number 8, closely associated with luck and wealth, as the manufacturer also did with Mercedes-Maybach S 680 (known as the S 650 in other markets).[7][8] The GLS 600 4Matic isn't based on the Mercedes-Maybach Vision Ultimate Luxury concept vehicle shown at 2018 Shanghai Motor Show.[9] This version is the first time that a three-point star stand-up ornament affixed to the hood/bonnet on an SUV, rather than the large "jet-engine" three-point star filling up the grille space as found in every SUV from Mercedes-Benz since 1979.

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic+

The second generation AMG version of the GLS-Class, GLS 63 4Matic+, was introduced at the same time as Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic. The 4.0-litre M177 V8 Biturbo is rated at 455 kW, making the GLS 63 4Matic+ the most powerful GLS ever. The novel feature is the "reintroduction" of classical AMG monoblock alloy wheels, which were popular option in the 1980s and 1990s.[10]

Due to its large size and negative environmental impact, Environmental Action Germany gave the car their Goldener Geier (Golden Vulture) award in 2020.[11]

Engines (2019–present)

Transmission (2019–present)

Recall

In March 2024, Mercedes-Benz recalled over 116,000 GLE and GLS cars, built from 2019 to 2024, due to a loose 48-volt ground cable that may not have been tightened properly during assembly. The ground cable is located under the front passenger seat that could pose a potential safety risk when the cables become hot.[13]

2023 facelift

The first facelift for the GLS X167 was unveiled on 4 April 2023 for the 2024 model year.[14][15] The changes includes a redesigned front fascia with a larger four-louvre grille, updated graphics for the LED taillights and new exterior colours. Inside, the MBUX infotainment system receives new display choices, improvised standard features, and new trim and upholstery options.

2026 facelift

The second facelift for the GLS X167 was unveiled on 31 March 2026 for the 2027 model year.[16]

References

  1. The GLE 450 4MATIC Coupé AMG Line Mercedes-Benz Indonesia, November 2020^
  2. The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS was held back by a confusing feature 9 January 2021^
  3. Mercedes-Benz GLS Meaning and History Mercedes-Benz of Modesto^
  4. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Consumer Guide, 22 June 2016^
  5. The new GLS. The S-Class of SUVs Mercedes-Benz^
  6. The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS: A new form of luxury Mercedes-Benz USA, retrieved 22 November 2019^
  7. Mihnea Radu. GLS 600, GLS 680, and S 680 Trademarks Hint at Mercedes-Maybach Models Auto Revolution, 6 January 2019, retrieved 23 November 2019^
  8. W.E. Ning. Mercedes-Maybach S680 And S560 Launched On The Shanghai Auto Show In China Car News China, 19 April 2017^
  9. Ronan Glon. 2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is business class without the jet lag Autoblog, 21 November 2019^
  10. Patrick George. The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Is A 603 Horsepow—Oh My God, Look At Those Wheels Jalopnik, 21 November 2019^
  11. Goldener Geier 2020 Deutsche Umwelthilfe e.V.^
  12. 2020 GLS 450 4MATIC SUV Mercedes-Benz USA, retrieved 23 November 2019^
  13. Christopher Smith. Mercedes Recalls 116K GLE, GLS Models for Fire Risk Under Passenger Seat Motor1, 2024-03-20^
  14. Chris Bruce. 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Lineup Debuts With Refreshed Body And Cabin Motor1.com, 2023-04-03, retrieved 2025-05-18^
  15. Tushar Kelshikar. Mercedes-Benz GLS & Maybach GLS facelift revealed Team-BHP, 2023-04-05, retrieved 2025-05-18^
  16. Chris Rosales. The New Mercedes GLS Has "Cloud-Based" Suspension Motor1.com, 2026-03-31, retrieved 2026-04-01^