Mercedes-Benz has updated its flagship SUV, the GLS, with refreshed styling that brings it into line with the recently facelifted S-Class saloon.
What's changed with the 2026 Mercedes GLS?
On the exterior, the GLS is now fitted with a larger grille design that brings it into line with the rest of the company's line-up, including the updated Mercedes GLE and GLE Coupe.
The illuminated frame around the grille complements new-look headlight units, which feature darker inner sections and twin-stacked Mercedes-Benz star-shaped daytime running lights.
In selected markets where such technology is legal, the GLS can be specified with an illuminated three-pointed star, too.
The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned to give the massive SUV even more presence. At the rear, new light clusters feature the Mercedes star logo (three on each side) and are now linked via a gloss-black panel on the revised tailgate.
Mercedes has added two new paint colours for the GLS - Dark Petrol Flat and Manufaktur Patagonia Red metallic.
There are also two new 21-inch wheel designs, including an aerodynamically optimised cross-spoke pattern and another that Mercedes describes as a 'status-orientated' disc wheel with a black centre.
There are also 22-inch wheel options from the Mercedes-AMG side for a sportier look.
What's changed on the interior of the GLS?
As with other current Mercedes models, the GLS is equipped with the MBUX Superscreen that spans the dashboard. It's made up of three 12.3-inch displays that all appear as one panel, and the native operating system has been upgraded to provide more processing power plus a digital virtual assistant.
All GLS models get a seven-seat, three-row configuration as standard. Passengers in the rear can stay entertained with the option of 11.6-inch displays mounted in the backs of the front seats.
These also run the car's infotainment system and can play various media from movies to music.
There are also new colour and trim options inside, including a particularly tasteful Beech Brown upholstery.
Any electric or hybrid versions of the GLS?
While there have been significant upgrades to the engines offered, there are no electric, plug-in-hybrid or indeed regular hybrid versions of the Mercedes GLS. Saying that, all powertrains include 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance in the form of a 17kW electric motor.
The two turbodiesel models will be of most interest to Irish buyers. Badged GLS 350d and 450d, these share the same core six-cylinder engine, a 3.0-litre, inline unit. Peak outputs are 313hp/650Nm and 367/750Nm, respectively, while CO2 emissions are never lower than 205g/km.
A turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine powers the GLS 450, producing up to 381hp and 560Nm of torque, enough to make it faster-accelerating than either of the diesels. Topping the non-AMG range is the V8-engined GLS 580, with up to 537hp and 750Nm of torque at its driver's disposal. It manages 0-100km/h in just 4.7 seconds.
All versions of the GLS feature a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
How much will the new Mercedes GLS be in Ireland?
Irish prices for the updated GLS have yet to be confirmed, but expect modest increases from the current car, which starts on the wrong side of €160,000 and rises to over €276,000.