The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class was last fully redesigned for the 2020 model year, and it’s due a mild refresh in 2026. Though the GLS is a full-size SUV, it shares the same unibody architecture as the mid-size GLE-Class. Key competitors include the BMW X7, the Cadillac Escalade, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Lexus LX. For the 2026 model year, we expect three SUV variants: the GLS 450 4Matic, the GLS 580 4Matic, and the AMG GLS 63, as well as an all-new AMG GLS 63 Manufaktur Arctic Silver Edition.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Even though the last full redesign was in 2020, we won’t be getting a next-gen SUV in 2026, but we do expect a refresh, as spy photos are afoot. There will likely be a new exterior lighting signature, an updated grille, and an upgraded infotainment system. Additionally, we will see a new AMG GLS 63 Manufaktur Edition, with unique interior and exterior accents, as well as an exclusive exterior paint option.
Design
The overall profile of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is bold and upright, and the design tweaks to the front fascia and headlights modernize it. Standard wheels ring in at 21-inches, but 22- and 23-inch wheels are available—as are multiple wheel design options per model. In non-AMG models, AMG Line and Night Package options include special exterior accents and upgraded wheels. The AMG models will offer a special AMG Night Package with gloss black exterior accents and side window surrounds, as well as black chrome tailpipes and matte black roof rails.
Powertrain
For 2026, all Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUVs will have standard all-wheel drive, denoted by the 4Matic moniker. There are three available powertrains: a 375-hp 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo with a mild hybrid system, a 510-hp 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with a mild hybrid system, and a hand-built AMG 603-hp 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with hybrid assist. Even with the mild hybrid and hybrid assist systems, these SUVs are more about performance than fuel economy, and which is reflected in the city/highway/combined mpgs. The GLS 450 gets 19/24/21 mpg, the GLS 580 gets 14/19/16 mpg, and the AMG GLS 63 gets 14/18/15 mpg. The GLS-Class has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.
Interior
The GLS-Class is a three-row SUV with room for up to seven, though a six-seat cabin configuration is a zero-cost option on all models. Synthetic leather seats are standard, and real leather is an option. There are multiple upholstery colors and trim accents available with each model. A panoramic sunroof is standard, and if you’re looking for more luxury for second-row passengers, you can opt for the Executive Rear Seat Package Plus, which includes heated-and-ventilated second row seats with seat massagers, wireless phone charging, and a second-row MBUX tablet. A Manufktur Signature Interior Package with high-end details and trimmings is also available. The GLE SUV offers 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.7 cubic feet behind the first row.
Technology
As the brand's flagship SUV, the GLS-Class gets a lot of premium tech as standard, and there is no shortage of options. All GLS-Class SUVs will come standard with an adaptive air suspension, adaptive LED headlights, a hands-free power liftgate, customizable ambient lighting, four-zone automatic climate controls, heated-and-ventilated front seats, augmented video navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. Available tech features include heated second-row seats, rapid-heating front seats, illuminated running boards, soft-close doors, five-zone climate control, heated-and-cooled front cup holders, head-up display, and a premium 29-speaker Burmester sound system.
