Midsize SUVs have never been more technologically advanced than with the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class. The GLE Class continues to set the bar high for luxury SUVs with its menacing good looks, outstanding craftsmanship, and state-of-the-art technology. The front grille of the GLE is the show-stopper thanks to its fusion of modern design with the long and storied heritage of the brand. The ordinary model’s grille features conventional horizontal slats, in contrast to the AMG Line’s striking diamond-studded appearance. The large three-pointed star that appears on the grille of every Mercedes-Benz is instantly recognizable. In particular, the illuminated symbol gives particular trim levels an air of contemporary elegance when the lights are turned off.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Class Unveiled – Mercedes Most Magnificent Luxury Mid-size SUV
The BMW X7 would laugh all the way to the bank if the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLS looked like this. Fortunately, it won’t, as these are unofficial digital illustrations that have nothing to do with the scoops of pre-production testers.
It’s clear that Q Cars on YouTube, which signed these renderings, used the current Mercedes-Benz GLS as a starting point for these CGIs. However, instead of also looking at spy shots of the real deal, the pixel manipulator decided to take a strange approach.
For one, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS’ front fascia won’t look anything like this. Here, it’s been inspired by the company’s EQ models, hence the quirky approach. Moreover, don’t look for those squared quad tailpipes unless you pick the range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLS 63.
The front and rear bumpers don’t have anything in common with those on the real car, and the same goes for the lighting units at both ends. The headlamps and taillights will feature a star-like signature, which certainly suits the three-pointed star’s flagship crossover. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the brand’s upcoming models will get this design feature, as we think it looks great on modern-day Mercedes vehicles.
Back in the real world, it seems that Mercedes is taking its time developing the upcoming GLS. However, it’s not a brand-new generation but a second mid-cycle refresh. This move should keep the model competitive for a few more years until Mercedes decides what’s best for its future. The rumor mill speaks of a possible introduction late next year, but we think it might be due a little sooner, at least in the Benz guise.
Unsurprisingly, Mercedes will also give a similar look to the AMG and Maybach versions of the current GLS, as all will feature the starry-like gizmo in the front and rear lighting units, as well as other potential visual and technical upgrades. However, the AMG and Maybach variants will get some exclusive touches revolving around their bumpers, grilles, wheels, and paint finishes, as well as the interior, as while the former is a sporty model, the latter is all about luxury.
We have yet to learn whether the cockpit will undergo some serious modifications (for a facelift) or if Mercedes decides to call it a day after giving it new software and perhaps new upholstery and trim. Our bet is on more extensive upgrades, as this model will stick around for a few more years. Guess we’ll learn more about it as time passes and the camouflage becomes thinner. Meanwhile, all we’re left with is the occasional spy shot and rendering.
So, do you think the GLS looks better with a traditional face or an EQ-inspired makeover? We lean on the former, as we’ve always considered the brand’s EQ models to be unappealing to the eye.
