2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV Specs & Pictures

For 140 years, Mercedes-Benz has been synonymous with automotive excellence. The new GLS powerfully continues this tradition: intuitive to operate, an unmistakable presence and first-class in every detail. As the S-Class of SUVs, it embodies a contemporary vision of luxury, comfort and digital intelligence. Its unmistakable “Welcome home.” feeling arises from the moment customers enter the GLS and a space of safety, tranquility and wellbeing becomes tangible.
 

Thanks to the new range of engines, the new GLS provides a new, more nimble driving experience with more agile, powerful acceleration. Each model is equipped with an array of ten exterior cameras, up to five radar sensors and twelve ultrasonic sensors. This suite of sensors works together with a powerful control unit running MB.OS, the Mercedes-Benz Operating System. Over-the-air updates for the entire vehicle software keep the GLS up to date and refreshed. The completely redesigned display architecture with the standard MBUX Superscreen impresses. With new cloud-based damper regulation with AIRMATIC, fitted standard, the vehicle automatically adjusts the damping shortly before encountering a bump. This makes every journey even more comfortable – especially for second and third row passengers.
 
The new standing Mercedes-Benz star on the hood – an established hallmark of the S-Class – gives the new GLS an iconic touch of tradition and prestige. With optional illumination, it further underscores the exclusivity of the GLS. This impression is reinforced by the new radiator grille. With its striking chrome frame and contour lighting, distinctive chrome fins and shimmering Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, the face of the GLS radiates modern luxury and unmistakable presence. The new GLS is more than an SUV – it is a statement of contemporary luxury and innovative technology.
 
Powertrain, chassis and driver assistance systems
Thanks to the new range of engines, the new GLS provides a new, sportier driving experience. Numerous innovations make the powertrains more dynamic. The engines are also designed to meet future emissions standards and deliver the brand’s hallmark high level of refinement.
 
The top-of-the-range GLS 580 4MATIC is now also noticeably more agile, especially in the partial load range. The V8 powertrain responds more quickly to accelerator inputs, operates more efficiently and provides smoother power delivery. Output has increased from 510 hp to 530 hp, and 553 lb-ft (previously 538 lb-ft) of torque is available across a wide range – from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm.
 
In preparation for future emission standards, the V8 now features a flat-plane crankshaft instead of the previous cross-plane configuration. The ignition sequence alternates between both cylinder banks. Optimizations compared with the previous engine include the injection system, exhaust gas aftertreatment with particulate filter, cylinder head intake and exhaust ports, and intake camshaft. Mercedes-Benz also redesigned the impeller and housing of the exhaust gas turbocharger, while two Lanchester balance shafts provide outstanding refinement.
 
In the GLS 450 4MATIC, the six-cylinder engine is now even more responsive and refined. This is due to the improved torque under partial load range and increase in peak torque to 413 lb-ft. These improvements stem from a new, more powerful electric auxiliary compressor, a cylinder head with optimized intake and exhaust ports as well as a modified intake camshaft. Further refinements to the combustion process and exhaust aftertreatment round out the upgrades.
 
Both engines feature an integrated starter generator (ISG 2.0), which provides intelligent support at lower engine speeds. When combined with turbocharging, this ensures outstanding power delivery. The system includes a 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as coasting, boost and recuperation to maximize efficiency. Thanks to the ISG, operation of the start-stop function and the transition from coasting with the engine off to powerful acceleration with engine power are nearly imperceptible. At idle, the intelligent interaction between the ISG and the engine delivers exceptional smoothness.
 
The NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics of the powertrains have been optimized through additional insulation measures. The transmission tunnel and engine bulkhead are now lined with a particularly high-quality non-woven material. The engine cover is fitted with a special heavy mat that effectively absorbs high-frequency combustion noises. Plus, acoustic foam is used in select bodyshell cavities to reduce engine, road and wind noise.
 
4MATIC all-wheel drive: superior when off-road, agile on the road
All-wheel drive has been a tradition at Mercedes-Benz for over 120 years. Since the introduction of the 4MATIC name in 1985, the system has been continually refined to meet the highest standards of driving stability, safety and dynamics. The advantages of 4MATIC offer enhanced traction capabilities make every journey smoother and safer, including off-road.
 
All GLS models are equipped standard with 4MATIC fully variable all-wheel drive (Torque on Demand). The system continuously adjusts distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles, from 0 to 100 percent, based on the driving situation. Torque is adjusted as needed by the electronic multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, taking both the driver’s preferences and the driving situation into account. This ensures 4MATIC delivers sporty and safe handling, even on varying road surfaces.
 
Torque on Demand ensures the best possible traction, even in icy or snowy winter conditions. The physical operating principle of the clutch corresponds to that of a center differential lock. In addition, maximum lateral stability at the front axle during dynamic driving can be achieved by reducing the drive torque at the front wheels.
 
The new transfer case also improves longitudinal dynamics and ride comfort, as a reduction in engine torque is no longer necessary for load reversal damping. The transfer case features a 1:2.93 low range reduction gear, which allows even higher torque transfer to the wheels. When operating with inter-axle locking, this ensures optimum traction at both drive axles during off-road driving, including on sand and other rugged terrain. Power output can also be controlled more finely when off-road, especially at low and crawling speeds.
 
Balanced ride comfort and agility
Standard AIRMATIC air suspension delivers a modern, well-balanced driving experience and features firmer, sportier tuning than previously offered, while also delivering a high level of ride comfort.
 
E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL: One of the most intelligent suspension systems
Active suspension systems have a long tradition at Mercedes-Benz. More than 40 years ago, research was already being conducted on spring and damper systems that would allow the power at each wheel to be individually controlled. The objective: to improve both ride comfort and vehicle dynamics. ABC (Active Body Control) first entered series production in 1999. In subsequent years ABC was continuously developed further, with the ROAD SURFACE SCAN function added in 2013 to produce the first predictive suspension that already responds to surface undulations before these are reached.
 
This tradition continues with optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL for the GLS 580 4MATIC. Developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz, the system is based on the AIRMATIC air suspension and keeps the vehicle level, regardless of payload. It allows the vehicle to be raised to increase ground clearance or lowered. Different levels can also be selected in special off-road driving modes.
 
With five multi-core processors and more than 20 sensors, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL responds predictively to any driving situation, elevating the driving experience. The control units analyze the driving situation 1,000 times per second and adapt the suspension accordingly. E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL enables a broad range of handling characteristics. With the DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, customers can prioritize ride comfort or dynamic handling. The active suspension can individually control the spring and damper forces on each wheel to counteract roll, pitch and lift movements. The body also no longer dips when braking and accelerating.
 

E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL also includes the following functions:
– Free-wheel mode: If, for example, the GLS gets stuck in a sand dune, this mode – only available in the Off-Road drive program – can help free the vehicle more easily. Where possible, the level is automatically raised and lowered several times, which alternately increases or reduces the pressure of the wheels on the ground to improve traction, effectively rocking the GLS free.
– Individual wheel control: After selecting the Off-Road drive program, the suspension level can be adjusted individually for each wheel via MBUX. This improves the vehicle’s alignment on rough terrain.
– Rear lowering during loading/unloading: The rear of the vehicle can be lowered by over two inches at the touch of a button for easier loading and unloading of the trunk.
 
Optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL operates at 48 volts and can even recuperate energy on rough road surfaces, making the system particularly efficient. The 48-volt motor-pump units on all four wheels are coordinated by a central control unit.
 
Support in almost every driving situation
The new GLS is equipped with a new, water-cooled supercomputer with extensive power reserves for future functions. Every new GLS is equipped with ten exterior cameras, up to five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors. These sensors work together with a powerful control unit running MB.OS. Artificial intelligence processes the sensor data to assess the driving situation.
 
Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE ASSIST and Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC are among the extensive standard driver assistance technologies. Optional MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO offers even more expanded features. The “CITY PRO” feature that enables a seamless point-to-point driving experience, even in dense city traffic, will be available at a later date.
 
Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST, fitted standard, can better and more quickly detect parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle. It also detects spaces that are not marked by white lines. In addition, the system can now assist with leaving a parking space – even if the vehicle was previously parked manually. If the function is activated, the system automatically carries out the parking maneuver.
 
The Digital Extra: Reverse maneuvering function enables the vehicle to automatically reverse part of the route most recently driven, with system support available under certain conditions. While this feature is active, the image from the reversing camera and a graphic representation of the planned route are displayed on the central multimedia display.
 
Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST 360 with its 360 degree camera is also standard and offers improved surround view displays. The Digital Extra: Rim Protection Warning displays a top-view distance alert when maneuvering in tight spaces, helping the driver avoid damage to the wheels.
 
Exterior and interior design and new generation DIGITAL LIGHT
For 20 years, Mercedes-Benz has enriched the automotive world with an exceptional full-size SUV. Initially introduced as the GL, this generously proportioned seven-seater has since set benchmarks for space, comfort, technology and poise. An SUV that creates experiences and stands as a symbol of elegance, strength and Mercedes-Benz’s distinctive “Welcome home.” feeling. As part of a facelift in 2015, the second generation received even more luxury, personality and expressive power. And with the introduction of the GLS name, an unmistakable statement was made: the GLS became the S-Class among SUVs. With the new 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS, countless details further strengthen the model’s position.
 
The new standing Mercedes-Benz star on the hood is an iconic symbol of automotive excellence. It also acts as a graceful homage to the S-Class, where this detail has long embodied tradition, prestige and understated confidence. An optional illuminated standing Mercedes-Benz star is also available to add a subtle special touch to every journey. Framed by an illuminated chrome surround, three horizontal chrome fins, one vertical fin and the shimmering Mercedes-Benz star pattern, the new grille design conveys a commanding presence and modern luxury. The AMG Line package offers an equally distinctive expression with a central Mercedes-Benz star adorning the grille.
 
The redesigned front bumper contributes to the confident and expressive presence of the new GLS. A sleek black panel visually unites the headlamps and radiator grille, creating a well-balanced, modern look. The headlamps and taillights, with signature Mercedes-Benz star design, ensure the GLS is unmistakable day and night, while subtly emphasizing the model’s refined character. At the rear of the vehicle, a trim element with an integrated Mercedes star visually connects both taillights into one flowing element, highlighting the vehicle’s impressive width.
 
Two new paint finishes – Dark Petrol and MANUFAKTUR Patagonia Red Metallic – enrich the exterior color palette, while two new available 21-inch wheel designs and two new optional 22-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels further expand the possibilities for personalization.
 
As the Mercedes-Benz SUV flagship, the GLS exemplifies the extensive customization options of the MANUFAKTUR program. A wide range of exclusive MANUFAKTUR exterior colors and Nappa leather upholsteries allow to tailor the vehicle to individual tastes.
 
Every GLS is fitted standard with a large panoramic roof. With over 10.8 sq ft of glass, it ranks among the largest of its kind in a production SUV, featuring glass panels that span the full width and length of the roof. At the touch of a button, a front section raises and slides far over the fixed rear glass panel.
 
DIGITAL LIGHT with micro-LED technology
The new GLS is fitted standard with the new generation DIGITAL LIGHT system, featuring micro-LED technology and a powerful chip. The high-resolution lighting field is noticeably larger, enabling increased brightness for the high beam and for road projections. The light module also consumes up to 50 percent less energy than the previous generation. The headlamps also weigh 25 percent less than the previous design as a result of the more compact micro-LED design and use of only one control unit. All software components are integrated into the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and were predominantly developed by Mercedes-Benz.
 
The new partial high-beam function – available on the GLS in the U.S. for the first time – improves the detection of poorly lit road users without dazzling others. Using combined camera data and map information, the cornering light now responds even more precisely to the road ahead.
 

New interior color and trim elements, steering wheel control concept
New trim elements and additional comfort features further elevate the interior of the GLS. The climate control air vents, positioned on each side of the MBUX Superscreen, are now a round design rather than angular and integrate ambient lighting.
 
Atmospheric ambient styles for the MBUX Superscreen, available as background motifs in a separate app, enhance the experience. The UI designers at Mercedes-Benz created these high-resolution welcome animations with remarkable attention to detail. The striking designs range from calm to invigorating, cold to warm and technical to emotional. These allow customers to create a personal atmosphere in the vehicle. The color scheme of the driver display, including the instruments and ambient lighting, is coordinated with these motifs.
 
Standard comfort seats with an elegant new upholstery design and moccasin stitching combine modern style with outstanding comfort.
 
The newly available warm Beech Brown/Black interior colorway expands the selection of classic interior colors such as Black, Macchiato Beige and Bahia Brown. The new upholstery color combination is available in MB-Tex and leather. Two new trim finishes, Natural Grain Dark Brown Birch Wood and Natural Grain Brown Walnut Wood, offer customers further opportunities for personalization.
 
Where no front passenger is present, the passenger screen displays the Mercedes-Benz star pattern or a decorative image. Customers can also generate a personalized decorative image via the Mercedes-Benz app.
 
The new steering wheel Mercedes-Benz features a new control concept with a rocker for Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC and a roller for volume control. The metal roller design enhances the tactile, analog user experience.
 
MB.OS and MBUX
MB.OS, the Mercedes-Benz Operating System, transforms the GLS into an intelligent companion that thinks, learns, and evolves with customers. MB.OS integrates and controls every aspect of the vehicle. This supercomputer uses AI and powerful chips and is connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. This enables over-the-air updates for the entire vehicle software to keep the GLS up to date and refreshed.
 
It also allows customers to customize the GLS even after purchase with a growing portfolio of Digital Extras in the Mercedes-Benz Store and the Mercedes-Benz app. This includes on-demand functions, entertainment and productivity apps, and driver assistance features.
 
MBUX Superscreen with standard front passenger display
The new MBUX Superscreen brings the digital world into the GLS. Three 12.3-inch displays are positioned under a large, seamless glass surface. The MBUX Zero Layer displays the most relevant information, recently used apps and suggestions. In the app grid, customers can arrange and group apps into personalized folders, much like a smartphone. A wide selection of apps are currently available, spanning audio, video, gaming, among other services.
 
At the touch of a button, the optional 3D instrument cluster enhances the driver display with a striking sense of depth.
 
The front passenger display of the MBUX Superscreen enables entertainment features for the front passenger while the vehicle is in motion as long as the driver’s gaze is kept on the road and not on the passenger screen. This includes streaming video from Disney+, YouTube, Sony RIDEVU and more.
 
Full HD screens for the rear: MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment
The new MBUX High-end Rear Seat Entertainment system, available in the optional Rear Seat Entertainment package, transforms the rear cabin of the GLS into a space that adapts effortlessly to every need – from relaxed entertainment to focused productivity. Regardless of the vehicle’s seat configuration is chosen, second row passengers can enjoy streaming audio and video on two brilliant 11.6-inch HD displays. Integrated HD cameras open the door to seamless in-car productivity apps. Content can be accessed intuitively via the touchscreens or with the new optional, individually configurable and removable MBUX remote controls. These remotes also give passengers easy access to comfort features such as climate control, window blinds and the settings for the Executive Rear Seat Package Plus. Sound can be enjoyed through the vehicle’s speakers, via Bluetooth or wired headphones, creating a personal audio experience for every passenger.
 

MBUX Virtual Assistant with multiple avatars
The new generation MBUX integrates artificial intelligence (AI) from Microsoft, Google and ChatGPT for an even more intelligent and personalized digital companion. Multiple AI agents unite the collective knowledge of the internet, enabling the new MBUX Virtual Assistant to engage in complex, multi-part conversations.
 
As a “living” avatar, the MBUX Virtual Assistant is always present on the Zero. In the standard setting, it is blue, or silvery blue on AMG Line models. The virtual assistant also uses various animations to signal whether it is currently speaking, listening or processing information. Movement, brightness, intensity and color interact seamlessly for intuitive communication with the driver.
 
In addition to the star avatar, there are two other representations of intelligence. One is a human-like avatar that emerges from a densifying cloud of stars. It embodies intelligence in a technological, futuristic way. With its expressive face, the other avatar creates an even stronger personal connection, encouraging playful interaction.
 
Navigation with familiar user interface, new MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation
In the new GLS, the navigation experience is based on Google Maps. Digital Extra: MBUX Navigation offers Mercedes-Benz customers the best of both worlds: Google Maps technology combined with the familiar Mercedes-Benz user interface.
 
Digital Extra: MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation overlays graphic navigation and traffic cues onto real-time visuals, which is particularly helpful in complex turning situations (e.g. unfamiliar routes or complex freeway interchanges). Three-dimensional animated arrows guide the driver, while a forward-facing camera captures the area ahead of the vehicle. Virtual objects and information are then overlaid onto this live video feed on the central display.
 
Intuitive visual support is also provided by the new MBUX Augmented Navigation Head Up Display. Available in the GLS for the first time, the system presents relevant information and route guidance for the driver in the field of view.
 
The Digital Extra: Digital Vehicle Key enables customers to lock, unlock and start the GLS using their smartphone. With this latest generation system, the vehicle automatically locks or unlocks when the customer approaches or moves away from the vehicle. This feature can also be deactivated via the central display, if desired.
 
Video conferencing
A variety of video conferencing apps are available via the in-car app store, including a new version of the “Meetings for Teams” app, to transform the GLS into a mobile office. Drivers can use the in-car camera while the vehicle is in motion, allowing other participants to see them during a meeting. Given the brand’s emphasis on safety, the use of the camera complies with the laws of the respective country and has been approved for use while the vehicle is in motion. To prevent driver distraction, the meeting video automatically turns off as soon as the camera is activated. Drivers do not see shared screens or slides – and the camera can be switched off at any time.
 
Interior, expanded comfort features and cloud-based damping
The GLS is the largest and most luxurious SUV from Mercedes-Benz, offering more of everything: more space, more comfort and more luxury. Its commanding presence stems from its majestic proportions: 205 inches in length and 77 inches in width, radiating pure strength and elegance. Its generous dimensions create an interior that feels open and inviting, with space for up to seven passengers to travel in first-class comfort. The long 123.4-inch wheelbase – 2.4 inches more than the GLE – contributes to the exceptional spacious feel of the interior, especially for second row passengers. All three rows of seats are power adjustable, and even the third row provides two full-size seats that comfortably accommodate passengers up to 6’4″.
 
Access to the third row is made wonderfully simple thanks to the power Easy Entry function. Passengers in the third row enjoy thoughtful details like USB charging ports and available seat heating. With the optional five-zone climate control, third row occupants benefit from a dedicated climate zone with roof-mounted air vents, ensuring personalized comfort for every passenger.
 
First-class rear cabin: Executive Rear Seat Package Plus
With the optional new Executive Rear Seat Package Plus, the GLS transforms the rear cabin into both a serene place of relaxation and a mobile office. Multi-contour seats with the Pro massage function, new MBUX remote controls and electric sun blinds in both rear doors create an environment that adapts effortlessly to every need. Other expanded features, including heated third row seats, luxury headrests, wireless charging for mobile devices and adaptive lighting also contribute to the exceptional comfort.
 
The multi-contour seats ensure rear passengers enjoy the same level of comfort as those in the front. Generous power adjustability allows for a perfectly tailored seating position with excellent lateral support. Gradually adjustable seat temperatures and soothing massage programs turn every journey into a moment of serene relaxation.
 
New MBUX remote controls replace the previous tablets and put access to comfort and entertainment functions at the fingertips of rear passengers. The Executive Rear Seat Package Plus also adds refined details such as leather grab handles, an extended comfort center armrest with an illuminated storage compartment, and a center console with two cupholders. The occupant seated behind the front passenger seat can also move the front seat forward at the touch of a button – for even greater legroom and an exceptionally relaxed, spacious experience.
 
New massage functions and improved seat climate control
A new vibration function in the front seats deepens the invigorating or relaxing available massage programs (standard on GLE 580 4MATIC). Four precisely placed vibration motors in the seat cushion deliver an exceptional deep-tissue effect that melts away tension. With the optional Executive Rear Seat Package Plus, this soothing experience extends to the second row seats.
 
Seat climate control, standard on all GLS models, adds another layer of comfort by gently ventilating the front seats. It refreshes, regulates moisture and maintains a pleasant seating temperature – even on longer journeys. The system integrates new radial fans instead of the previous axial units in the seat cushions and backrests to increase airflow and improve efficiency.
 
Electric cabin air filter
The new GLS continuously works to purify the air for all occupants – completely renewing the interior air approximately every 90 seconds. At the heart of the standard-fit system is an advanced, multi-stage filtration concept with an electric filter, ensuring exceptionally clean air and further reducing unpleasant odors. The incoming outside air is effectively cleaned using this multi-stage concept. In the first stage, the outside air passes through a pre-filter that traps larger particles from the airflow. Next, an electric filter ionizes fine dust particles, enabling excellent filtration at the interior filter. While the pre-filter only cleans the outside air in the first filtration stage, the interior filter is also active in recirculation mode.
 
ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, also equipped standard, intelligently monitors air quality inside and outside the vehicle using fine dust and air quality sensors. Through the intelligent networking of sensor data, the system detects nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO) and fine dust particles of size PM2.5 in the outside air. PM2.5 particles have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, which can only be seen under an electron microscope. When the air quality and fine dust sensor readings reach a certain level, the climate control system automatically switches between fresh air and recirculation mode.
 
Cloud-based intelligent damper control
The new standard cloud-based damper regulation with AIRMATIC delivers exceptional ride comfort. The intelligent damping control provides noticeably greater ride comfort over bumps. Once the intelligent damper control function is activated, the damping is automatically adjusted shortly before the respective bumps. This increase in comfort is especially noticeable for rear seat occupants. Mercedes-Benz developed the function in-house and has applied for a patent.
 
The damping adjustment is based on “Car-to-X” information from Mercedes-Benz vehicles driving ahead – transmitted to the Mercedes-Benz Cloud in real time via the mobile network and anonymized. “Car-to-X” refers to communication between vehicles. By leveraging the sensors of other cars, the technology significantly extends the coverage area of the vehicle’s own radar or camera systems, effectively enabling the vehicle to “see around corners.”