2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS Overhaul Moves the Goalposts for Luxury SUVs

Over the course of just a few weeks, Mercedes-Benz has announced a comprehensive revamp of several core models. These include the 2027 S-Class, 2027 GLE-Class, and 2027 GLE-Class Coupe. For customers seeking a combination of ultimate luxury and versatility, the 2027 GLS-Class has now been revealed. As with the smaller GLE, the GLS arrives with new front/rear designs, an updated dashboard with pillar-to-pillar screens, a new supercomputer with AI integration, and new engines. In the high-end three-row luxury segment, this may be the new SUV to beat.

2027 GLS-Class Adopts New Family Look

The imposing GLS mirrors the changes applied to the latest GLE, such as the updated radiator grille with a chrome frame and contour lighting. There are updated headlights and taillights, and like the S-Class and GLE, these now have Mercedes star motifs in them. Those headlights are worth another mention, as they now come with new-generation Digital Light technology, with micro-LEDs. Not only does this design save energy, but the lighting field is larger than before. For the first time on U.S.-spec GLS SUVs, a partial high-beam function that prevents dazzling other road users is available.

Dark Petrol and Manufaktur Patagonia Red Metallic are new additions to the exterior color palette, and there are a few new 21- and 22-inch wheel designs. Every GLS also gets a standard panoramic roof with over 10.8 square-feet of glass, one of the largest of its kind. 

A new, illuminated standing star is also available for the hood, adding a touch of grandeur to this SUV.

New MBUX Superscreen, Materials, and Steering Controls

Moving inside, the S-Class of SUVs is as opulent as ever. From behind the steering wheel, the door panels and lower center console are familiar, but the dashboard is entirely new. The outgoing GLS dash was a slightly fussy affair, with an unusually large amount of space occupied by ventilation outlets. In the new one, the vents have been reshaped and made smaller, freeing up space for the new MBUX Superscreen.

This new display architecture is standard and is made up of three 12.3-inch screens beneath a single panel, including a passenger-side screen. Behind the scenes, a supercomputer with AI integration forms the backbone of the MB.OS system, which integrates all functions and keeps the GLS fresh with over-the-air updates. Anyone driving the GLS for the first time will need patience to familiarize themselves with all the tech, from the MBUX Virtual Assistant with multiple avatars to the new MBUX augmented reality navigation system.

The tech overload extends to the rear seat, where buyers can specify a new MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System with dual 11.6-inch HD displays. From here, second-row passengers can enjoy their own video and audio content, which will be accessible via Bluetooth or wired headphones. 

The following additions are also new for 2027 GLS SUVs:

• New vibration function in front seats (standard for GLE 580)
• New electric cabin air filter
• New Beech Brown upholstery color
• New multi-function steering wheel with rocker and roller switches
• New Natural Grain Dark Brown Birch Wood and Natural Grain Brown Walnut Wood interiors

As before, the GLS seats six or seven occupants, with even the rearmost seats offering power adjustments. With ample space, top-class materials, and elaborate lighting, the GLS cabin is very inviting.

GLS-Class Performance and Suspension Updates

The engines in the 2027 GLS are either new or revised, promising greater performance and even better refinement. In the GLS 450, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo engine delivers more torque than before, while the GLS 580 has a new 4.0-liter turbo V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft. Both variants have an integrated starter generator that improves power delivery, efficiency, and smoothness.

Both models come with the company’s 4Matic fully variable all-wheel-drive system, which continuously distributes drive power between the front and rear axles based on the driving situation. A new transfer case with a 1:2.93 low range reduction gear enhances traction when driving on loose surfaces—not that many GLS SUVs are expected to be used off-road.

The Airmatic air suspension is standard. While ride comfort is still paramount, Mercedes says a sportier tune than before is offered, so handling should feel a little sharper. On the GLS 580, E-Active Body Control is optional, which always keeps the SUV level, regardless of the payload. This advanced system uses five multi-core processors and over 20 sensors to predictively respond to any driving scenario. It also comes with additional modes, such as Free-Wheel Mode that can help free the GLS if it’s stuck in sand by raising and lowering the vehicle several times.

Contributing to the overall refinement of the GLS are new sound insulation materials that further absorb high-frequency combustion noises. And, when you want the vehicle to assume more control of driving duties, the car relies on ten cameras, five radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors to run its next-gen driver-assistance functions. One of the most exciting additions is City Pro, which will allow point-to-point driving in dense city traffic—this will become available via an update at a later date.

The 2027 GLS is expected to arrive at U.S. dealers in the second half of 2026. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but the 2026 model already starts at $90,250, so the new one will be closer to the six-figure mark.

Related: Long Distance Luxury: I Drive a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 Over 1,000 Miles – With Kiddos

Final Thoughts

The 2027 GLS is one of the most luxurious SUVs in the world, and the new one adds to that with its fresh technologies, enhanced computing power, more potent engines, and quieter interior. With Audi planning to release an ultra-luxury Q9 and BMW dealers calling for an Escalade rival, competition is heating up in the luxury three-row segment, so the updates to the GLS have come just in time.

​Read More