Mercedes-Benz has revealed updated versions of its largest SUV in all three flavours.

    The Mercedes-Benz GLS, Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, and Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 all receive similar detail changes to the recently updated GLE range.

    The updated models will arrive in Australia during the third quarter of this year.

    It’s a subtle update overall, with the interior largely unchanged visually.

    There’s no enormous portrait-style touchscreen or MBUX Hyperscreen like in newer Mercedes-Benz models, with all GLS models sticking with the standard 12.3-inch dual-screen set-up.

    While the screen sizes haven’t changed, there’s an updated generation of the MBUX infotainment system with a choice of three different styles – classic, sporty, discreet – with the latter reducing the amount of information on display.

    A MBUX Multi-Seat Entertainment system is optional, giving rear-seat occupants access to a range of infotainment and comfort features.

    The GLS also gets a new steering wheel with touch controls on its spokes; AMG models get their own unique wheel design.

    The Mercedes-AMG GLS’ roll stabilisation and air suspension have received a software update and new configuration, aimed at increasing the spread between dynamic handling and comfort, while Mercedes-Benz says it has “recompiled the scope” of the standard GLS’ available Off-Road Engineering package, with an underride guard and 30mm more ground clearance.

    Externally, the Mercedes-Benz GLS gets a revised grille with four louvres finished in Silver Shadow; this finish is also found on the side air vents. There’s also a redesigned front bumper, with air inlets surrounded by high-gloss black trim.

    A new 20-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheel design in Himalayas Grey with a high-sheen finish is now available on the standard GLS.

    Changes to the Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach models are much more subtle. AMG models get a new AMG emblem up front and new projected AMG logos, while the Maybach gets a new 23-inch forged wheel option.

    All GLS models, regardless of badge, get subtly refreshed lighting, plus the option of Sodalite Blue metallic and Manufaktur Alpine Grey non-metallic exterior finishes.

    New interior colourways on the Benz and AMG GLS include Bahia Brown and Catalana Beige.

    Glossy brown lime wood is now the standard trim applique on Mercedes-Benz models, and becomes an option on Mercedes-AMG models.

    The Maybach’s gloss black piano lacquer Manufaktur trim, with its flowing lines, is also now optional on both.

    The Maybach GLS gets new diamond quilting for the leather upholstery, plus ambient lighting with a special Mercedes-Maybach animated projection.

    It’s available in two exclusive colourways: Crystal White/Silver Grey Pearl and Mahogany Brown/Macchiato Beige.

    The powertrain range continues to consist of 48V mild-hybrid inline-six petrol and diesel engines, plus twin-turbo V8 engines also with 48V set-ups.

    The GLS450 uses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine producing 280kW of power and 500Nm of torque. The claimed 0-100km/h time is 6.1 seconds.

    Two 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-diesels are offered, with the GLS350d producing 230kW and 650Nm for a 0-100km/h time of 6.7 seconds and the GLS450d producing 270kW and 750Nm for a sprint time of 6.1 seconds.

    A V8-powered GLS580 is also available elsewhere, though in Australia the GLS currently offers eight-cylinder power only in Maybach and AMG guises.

    In the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 produces 410kW and 730Nm while in the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 it pumps out 450kW and 850Nm.

    Both models have a claimed 0-100km/h time of 4.2 seconds.

    All engines have a 15kW/200Nm boost available from their 48V systems, or 16kW/250Nm in V8 models.

    The current GLS has been on sale in Australia since 2019.

    It was the second best-selling vehicle in its segment last year, behind only the BMW X7. A total of 840 X7s were sold against 803 GLSs.

    MORE: Everything Mercedes-Benz GLS
    MORE: Everything Mercedes-AMG GLS
    MORE: Everything Mercedes-Maybach GLS

    William Stopford

    William Stopford is an automotive journalist based in Brisbane, Australia. William is a Business/Journalism graduate from the Queensland University of Technology who loves to travel, briefly lived in the US, and has a particular interest in the American car industry.

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