2023 Mercedes GLS luxury SUV revealed
New Mercedes GLS luxury SUV gets refreshed looks, an upgraded infotainment system and mild hybrid technology for AMG versions. Here’s everything you need to know...
On sale October 2023 | Price from £90,000 (est)
As anyone who’s walked into work with a newly styled hairdo will tell you, a small change can make you the talk of the town in no time. Let's hope, then, that the changes made to this facelift Mercedes GLS have been enough to earn it a second glance among the luxury SUV crowd.
On the outside, the front grille has been revised for a bolder look, and the rear lights are now structured as three horizontal blocks rather than the two seen in the previous version.
Inside, two 12.3in digital screens (for the instruments and infotainment) run the latest version of Mercedes’ MBUX operating system, which now includes a 360-degree camera to help you park.
Most of the car’s functions are operated via touch controls on the steering wheel or through the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, so you can use your phone’s apps if you prefer.
There’s new technology for your passengers, too: each second-row seat can be had with its own infotainment screen, along with USB ports with enough power to charge your phone or laptop. As before, the GLS has seating for up to seven, matching both the rival BMW X7 and Range Rover.
There’s a choice of two petrol engines for the GLS: a 375bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit in the GLS 450 and a 510bhp 4.0-litre V8 in the GLS 580. Two diesel models are also available for high-mileage drivers: the 308bhp 3.0-litre GLS 350d and the 362bhp 3.0-litre GLS 450d. All versions come with Mercedes’ 4Matic four-wheel drive system.
A Maybach version, called the GLS 600, promises even higher levels of performance and luxury, with a 550bhp version of the 4.0-litre petrol V8 and 23in alloy wheels. However, if you just want to go fast, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 gets even more power from its petrol V8 (603bhp), plus mild hybrid electrical assistance to help boost the car away from standing starts.
Prices for the updated GLS are expected to start from £90,000, which is higher than you’d pay for the rival X7, but significantly cheaper than the Range Rover Long Wheelbase seven-seater, which starts from £112,020.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
Read more: Best luxury SUVs >>
Best luxury SUVs 2024 – and the ones to avoid
The best luxury SUVs are as practical as they are classy and as desirable as they are relaxing to drive. Here we count down the top 10 – and reveal the one to avoid
