German automaker Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV globally. Mercedes’ biggest model has been updated with a new design, better dynamics, new interior and new technology. It now gets a flat-plane crankshaft V8, a triple-screen dashboard and a “cloud-based” suspension setup. The SUV will first go on sale in the US and European markets, with its India launch expected by the end of this year. The 2026 GLS will continue as Mercedes-Benz’s flagship SUV, sitting at the top of its lineup. It will compete with Audi Q7, BMW X7, Land Rover Defender and Volvo XC90.
powertrainGlobally, the new GLS will be offered with two diesel variants – 350d 4MATIC and 450d 4MATIC – and two petrol options, 450 4MATIC and 580 4MATIC. Both diesels use a six-cylinder engine with an electrically heated catalyst to meet the upcoming Euro 7 norms. The 450 4MATIC has a six-cylinder petrol engine, and Mercedes claims it offers better refinement, response and better torque under partial load.
The 580 4MATIC features a flat-plane V8 replacing the earlier cross-plane M177 unit. The updated M177 Evo, first seen in the facelifted S 580 4MATIC, has been developed to conform to Euro 7 requirements. The V8 produces 530hp at 750Nm of torque, with both petrol variants electronically limited to 210kph. All powertrains come with the updated ISG 2.0 mild-hybrid system. 48-volt integrated starter-generator supports power boost, energy recovery and engine-off coasting. The 9G-Tronic automatic transmission takes over the responsibility of the gearbox. Only 3.0-litre, six-cylinder turbo petrol and diesel engine options are expected to be available in the Indian market. go cloud-based suspension! The GLS now features Airmatic air suspension with cloud-based damper control, which allows the system to adjust damping in advance of road conditions. The optional e-Active Body Control system in the 580 4MATIC can analyze driving situations up to 1,000 times per second. The updated driver assistance system includes five radar sensors, 10 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, supported by a more powerful control unit running on MB.O.design The updated Mercedes-Benz GLS introduces its major design changes at the front, with a larger, more upright grille featuring a star-pattern design. The grille is wider and more square, giving the SUV a strong stance. While maintaining the overall shape, the LED headlamps have been revised with a new lighting signature, including updated daytime running light elements and slimmer housing.
The front bumper has been redesigned with cleaner surfaces and more defined, vertically oriented air intakes. In profile, the GLS is largely unchanged, retaining its long wheelbase, tall roofline and upright proportions. Updates are limited to a new alloy wheel design and minor trim modifications, while the shoulder line and large glass area have been retained.
At the rear, the SUV gets updated LED tail-lamps with a new internal pattern, which are now connected by a gloss-black strip to increase visual width. The rear bumper has also been revised with changes to the lower section, including updated inserts and exhaust surrounds. Two new paint options have been introduced – Dark Petrol and MANUFAKTUR Patagonia Red Metallic, as well as new 22- and 23-inch alloy wheel designs.
interior part Moving inside, the dashboard now comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX SuperScreen, consisting of three 12.3-inch displays under a glass panel. Rear passengers also get two 11.6-inch screens. The system runs updated MBUX software with expanded connectivity and personalization functions. Material finishes have been revised, with new trim and upholstery options available under the MANUFAKTUR program, including updated wood, metal and leather combinations. The center console and controls have been reworked for a cleaner layout with fewer physical buttons. The ambient lighting has also been updated, with additional themes extending throughout the cabin.
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