The Mercedes-Benz GLS gets a facelift for 2026, but will it be launched here?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is quite literally the S-Class of SUVs. For 2026, the company has decided against an all-new generation product and instead are giving the 3rd generation model a 2nd facelift which extensively changes the look and feel of the vehicle. As a reminder, the third generation GLS was launched in 2019.
Design
The biggest change that old-school Benz enthusiasts will appreciate is the return of the upright star. This is the first time a GLS gets an upright star and in certain markets, there is an option to get an illuminated version of this hood ornament. The radiator grille has also been enlarged with a thick chrome frame and contour lighting.
Both front and rear bumpers have been redesigned. At the rear, the bumper has a new design trim with a black panel linking the taillights. Star designs now feature heavily in both headlight and taillight graphics. Finally, there are new 21″ and 22″ alloy wheel designs and two new paint finishes, ‘Dark Petrol’ and ‘Manufaktur Patagonia Red Metallic’.
Inside, the MBUX Superscreen is now standard. It features a single glass surface that stretches across the cockpit and houses 3 12.3″ displays. The steering wheel features galvanized metal physical roller switches. There are optional multi-contour rear seats with massage function and removable MBUX remote controls.
There’s also a five-zone climate control system with roof-mounted vents. Round vents replace rectangular ones and a new Beech Brown interior colour has been added. The front seats feature a new vibration function to enhance the massage programme.
Powertrain & Technology
The engines all feature integrated starter generators and an 48-volt electric system as standard. On the top end, the V8-powered GLS 580 4MATIC has been uprated to 537hp and gets a new flat-plane crankshaft. Mercedes-Benz claims there’s a new AI-powered supercomputer that controls MB.OS functions.
The AIRMATIC suspension system uses cloud-based data to predicatively adjust damping before the vehicle hits a bump in the road. Standard headlights are now 40% brighter and use 50% less energy than the outgoing ones. Mercedes-Benz also now allows for biometric two-factor authentications for in-vehicle payments via a face-facing camera in the cabin.
