The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a refreshed luxury three-row SUV with new Digital Light headlamps, an illuminated grille surround, and a standard MBUX Superscreen interior.
Often called the “S-Class of SUVs,” it pairs true seven-seat comfort with strong performance, including a V8 option, and some of the most advanced technology in its segment. It’s a strong pick for US and UK buyers who want prestige and space without giving up comfort.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 2026: Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.0L turbo inline-6 mild hybrid (GLS 450), 4.0L V8 biturbo mild hybrid (GLS 580, Maybach GLS 600), handcrafted 4.0L V8 biturbo (AMG GLS 63) |
| Horsepower | 375 hp (GLS 450) – 603 hp (AMG GLS 63) |
| 0–60 mph | 5.8 sec (GLS 450), 4.7 sec (GLS 580), 4.1 sec (AMG GLS 63), 4.8 sec (Maybach GLS 600) |
| Drive Type | 4MATIC all-wheel drive (standard across the range) |
| Transmission | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic |
| Seating Capacity | 7 (6 with optional captain’s chairs; Maybach GLS available with a 4-seat VIP layout) |
| Cargo Space | 17.4 cu ft behind the third row, 84.7 cu ft with all rows folded |
| Starting Price (US) | Around $91,600 for the GLS 450 4MATIC |
| Starting Price (UK) | Around £110,920 |
Pricing varies by trim, options, and market the AMG GLS 63 starts near $150,000 in the US, while the ultra-luxury Maybach GLS 600 starts around $178,450. Pricing is confirmed via Kelley Blue Book’s GLS pricing page for the US and Carwow’s Mercedes-Benz GLS review for the UK, both of which update figures regularly.
What Makes The GLS Stand Out?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS stands out as the “S-Class of SUVs” by blending unpretentious luxury, effortless performance, and first-class space for up to seven passengers:
- True three-row luxury. Unlike some “3-row” SUVs where the last row is an afterthought, the GLS’s third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips, and every row gets a comfortable, well-insulated ride.
- A real prestige SUV. The GLS is frequently chosen by executives and public figures who want SUV practicality without stepping down from S-Class-level presence.
- A wide performance range. From the composed, efficient GLS 450 to the handcrafted, 603-hp AMG GLS 63, the lineup covers everything from family comfort to genuine performance.
- Cutting-edge technology. Standard tech includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 13-speaker Burmester sound system (26-speaker system optional), and augmented-reality navigation. Rear-seat passengers can option the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System with twin screens for streaming and video calls a similar concept to what we covered in our BMW Theatre Screen guide, if you’re comparing luxury rear-seat tech across brands.
- A genuine status symbol. Between its size, presence, and the range-topping Maybach variant, the GLS remains one of the most recognizable luxury SUVs on the road.
GLS Trim Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is available in three core luxury trims the GLS 450 4MATIC SUV, GLS 580 4MATIC SUV, and high-performance AMG GLS 63 SUV plus an ultra-luxury Maybach tier:
- GLS 450 4MATIC The entry point, built around a 375-hp turbocharged inline-6 mild hybrid. Best for buyers who want GLS luxury without stepping into V8 territory.
- GLS 580 4MATIC Steps up to a 510-hp bi-turbo V8 mild hybrid, with added comfort features like multi contour massage seats and a five-zone climate system.
- AMG GLS 63 The performance flagship, with a handcrafted 603-hp V8 biturbo, AMG-specific suspension tuning, and sports-car-like acceleration in a seven-seat body.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 The ultra-luxury variant, available with a 4-seat VIP lounge layout, exclusive design elements, and the most opulent finishes in the lineup.
How The GLS Compares To Rivals?
The GLS’s closest competitors are the BMW X7 and the Range Rover (long-wheelbase). The GLS beats the X7 on third-row cargo space (17.4 cu ft versus 12.8 cu ft), while the Range Rover LWB out-hauls both with 92.8 cu ft of maximum cargo space.
If you’re cross-shopping, the decision usually comes down to whether you prioritize Mercedes’ tech-forward cabin, BMW’s driving dynamics, or Range Rover’s off-road pedigree and outright cargo capacity. Full specs and configurator options are available on Mercedes-Benz’s official GLS page.
If you’re also weighing a large luxury SUV against something more versatile for daily driving, our Petrol Vs Diesel guide can help you think through engine choice regardless of which brand you land on. And once you’ve settled on a model, our guide to the best websites for buying and insuring cars walks through where to shop and how to get competitive insurance quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GLS just a bigger GLE?
No. Beyond size, the GLS offers a genuinely usable third row, a higher trim ceiling (including AMG and Maybach versions), and a more prestige-focused positioning compared to the GLE.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz GLS cost?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS starts at $90,250 for its base model, with prices reaching up to $181,250 for top-tier ultra-luxury variants.
Does the GLS compete with the Range Rover?
Yes the GLS is a direct competitor to both the Range Rover and the BMW X7 in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
Is there a Maybach version of the GLS?
Yes. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is the ultra-luxury version, available with a 4-seat VIP lounge layout and the brand’s most exclusive interior finishes.
What technology comes standard on the GLS?
Every Mercedes-Benz GLS comes equipped with the intelligent MBUX User Experience featuring “Hey, Mercedes” voice control, dual 12.3-inch displays, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Bottom Line
The Mercedes-Benz GLS earns its “S-Class of SUVs” reputation through a genuinely comfortable three-row cabin, a wide spread of performance options, and some of the most advanced in-car technology available in a full-size SUV.
Whether you land on the efficient GLS 450, the powerful GLS 580, the performance-focused AMG GLS 63, or the ultra-luxury Maybach GLS 600, it remains one of the most complete choices for US and UK buyers who want space, status, and cutting-edge tech in one package.
