Following the recent updates of the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz GLS and Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic have been launched in updated guise too. Numerous design, technology and equipment changes take the comfort, connectivity and ambience of Mercedes-Benz’s flagship SUV models to new heights.
Visual enhancement and functional off-road features for the GLS
The updated Mercedes-Benz GLS can now be recognised by an even more striking radiator grille that comprises four louvres which have been galvanised in high-quality Silver Shadow. The bumper is now more visually prominent, featuring integrated air inlet grilles, combined with a surround in high-gloss black. Underneath, the large simulated under guard has also been redesigned. The rear lights now feature an eye-catching design which comprises three horizontal blocks within. New 20-inch multi-spoke light alloy wheels in Himalayas grey and with a high-sheen finish have been to the list of available wheel options.
Inside, the GLS remains a seven-seater as standard, but the variety of interior trim finishes has been revised. Manufaktur gloss black piano lacquer, is now available for the GLS family for the first time and the louvres of the centre and side air vents are galvanised in Silver Shadow, another detail that will be familiar from the Mercedes-Maybach GLS.
Catering for off-road adventures is a reconfigured off-road engineering package which includes an underride guard and 30mm of additional ground clearance.
Enhanced driver integration through updated MBUX
The MBUX infotainment system has been updated with a new look for the displays, which can be individualised with three different styles and three modes. The classic style offers the tried and tested two-tube design with familiar content between the two round displays. Sporty offers a red background, with a dynamic design for the central rev counter. In the discreet style, the content is reduced to what is essential. Both displays can be customised with seven colour schemes in conjunction with the ambient lighting.
The off-road mode that forms part of the updated MBUX combines special content such as gradient, lateral inclination, compass and steering angle into a visual experience. Thanks to the standard Parking Package with 360-degree camera, the transparent bonnet function is offered, which facilitates a virtual view of under the vehicle which is composed of images from the 360-degree camera, aiding in the identification of large obstacles such as rocks and washaways.
Extraordinary luxury further refined in the Mercedes-Maybach GLS
The top of the range Mercedes-Maybach GLS has received subtle exterior updates which include a high-quality radiator grille featuring vertical chrome bars and the Maybach lettering. The air inlet grille features a Maybach pattern and a chrome surround. A 23-inch forged wheel in typical Maybach design with forged wheel bolt cover is new to the options list.
Inside, ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes-Maybach pattern has been added. A new design for the seat covers, comprising centre sections of the seat surfaces and backrests incorporating high-quality diamond-pattern quilting with specific perforations, emphasises the particularly luxurious character of the Mercedes-Maybach.
A variety of additional upgrades
Both models also feature a variety of additional upgrades including new paint finishes and the latest steering wheel offering which incorporates touch controls and a voice assistant that can be activated by more simple commands, without the need for the keyword “Hey Mercedes”.
With the optional MBUX multi-seat entertainment system, rear seat occupants experience the same comprehensive range of infotainment and comfort features as those upfront thanks to the use of up to three touchscreens and a variety of intuitive control options such as voice assistant.
Under the bonnet
A variety of engines are available, all of which are befitting of these models and their place in the Mercedes model range.
The GLS 580 4Matic is fitted with a turbocharged 4.0 litre engine that offers 380kW and 730Nm allowing for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.9 seconds. The GLS 450 d 4Matic utilises a 3.0 litre turbodiesel engine that offers 270kW and 750Nm.
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic is equipped with a 4.0 litre turbocharged engine that offers 410kW and 770Nm allowing it to also complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds.
Model range and pricing
Pricing includes a five-year/100 000km service and maintenance plan
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d R2 304 700
Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 R2 840 600
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 R4 500 000
Credit: Reuben van Niekerk
