After the GLE facelift, we were expecting the Mercedes GLS facelift to be announced any minute now. The first photo has leaked on the internet, and we can see the first details.
The big brother of the GLE, the Mercedes GLS, was launched in 2019 (X167), and now it’s time for a facelift. As seen in the first photo that leaked on the internet and appears to be from a service manual, we can see a new, more massive radiator grille and a new front bumper that stands out more.
At the rear, only the arrangement of the lights on the inside of the taillights has changed, and they have kept the same shape. New wheel designs are also offered. The facelift also applies to the Mercedes-Maybach GLS superluxury model.
Second-generation MBUX system
The Mercedes GLS will take over the second-generation MBUX multimedia system with the occasion of the model change. The dashboard layout is unchanged, but the multimedia system can also be operated by touch and is more interactive now; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, and standalone over-the-air apps can be installed. The GLS will also get the S-Class’s dual double-spoke steering wheel.
100% hybrid engine range
Due to restrictions some European countries impose on heavy models with large engines, Mercedes will only offer hybrid versions in Europe. So, as with the GLE facelift, both inline 6-cylinder diesel engines in the GLS 350 d 4Matic and GLS 400 d 4Matic will get 48V mild hybrid technology with an integrated 20 hp starter generator to help the engine start and acceleration.
The V8 petrol versions of the GLS 580 4Matic (489 PS), AMG GLS 63 4Matic (612 PS), and Maybach GLS 600 4Matic (557 PS), which already have 48V mild hybrid with integrated 22 hp starter generator will remain unchanged in the range.
So far, there is no PHEV version because the GLS comes standard with seven seats, and there was no room for the battery. So here is the only question mark: if Mercedes offer any PHEV version, they will have to drop the standard seven seats for such a version.
The new Mercedes GLS, including AMG and Maybach versions, will debut in summer 2023, just after the launch of the GLE facelift expected in July 2023.
