# Mercedes-Benz GLS (X167)
The Mercedes-Benz GLS (internal designation X167) is the third generation of Mercedes-Benz's full-size, three-row luxury SUV, produced since 2019 at the [Tuscaloosa, Alabama](https://www.edgepedia.org/tuscaloosa-alabama) plant and positioned by the maker as the "S-Class of SUVs".[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) It replaced the X166 GL-class and is offered as the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 and GLS 580, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software)
| Key fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Generation | Third-generation GLS, chassis code X167; world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in April 2019, U.S. sales from the end of 2019[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) |
| Size growth over X166 | Length +77 mm, width +22 mm, wheelbase +60 mm[3](https://media.mercedes-benz.com/article/0843adee-6c76-4e02-a83a-13f5ee45f5ee) |
| Seating | Three fully electrically adjustable seat rows for up to seven occupants; third row folds into the floor, cargo volume up to 2,400 liters; first six-seater variant with second-row Captain's Chairs[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) • [3](https://media.mercedes-benz.com/article/0843adee-6c76-4e02-a83a-13f5ee45f5ee) |
| Electrification | All engines carry EQ Boost, a 48-volt onboard electrical system with an integrated starter generator adding up to 21 hp for short periods[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) • [4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide) |
| Suspension | Optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, an electrohydraulic system that individually controls spring and damping forces at each wheel, with camera-based Road Surface Scan[4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide) • [5](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/passengercars/services/manuals.html/gls-suv-2020-09-x167-mbux/e-active-body-control/function-of-e-active-body-control) |
| Facelift | Updated GLS, Maybach GLS 600 and AMG GLS 63 presented April 4, 2023; U.S. launch mid-September 2023, European dealerships from end of October 2023[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software) • [6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_P7NM2dJaPI) |
| U.S. pricing (MY2025) | GLS 450 4MATIC $89,200; GLS 580 4MATIC $114,800; AMG GLS 63 $149,500; Maybach GLS 600 $178,450[7](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2025-mercedes-benz-model-line-updates) |
## Development and launch
The X167 was designed from the outset as a luxury vehicle and a closer relation to the S-Class sedan, in contrast to its predecessor, which began as a GL-class on older architecture and was renamed GLS only midway through its life.[8](https://www.autocarindia.com/car-reviews/2020-mercedes-benz-gls-india-review-test-drive-417846) It premiered at the New York show in April 2019 and went on sale in the United States by the end of that year.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) Production is based at Mercedes-Benz's Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, the home of the brand's SUV family; in March 2026 the plant's five-millionth vehicle coincided with the world premieres of comprehensively updated GLE and GLS models there.[9](https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/production/5-mil-vehicles-tuscaloosa.html)
## Dimensions and interior
The X167 is larger than its predecessor in every key dimension: 77 mm longer, 22 mm wider, with a 60 mm longer wheelbase that chiefly benefits second-row space.[3](https://media.mercedes-benz.com/article/0843adee-6c76-4e02-a83a-13f5ee45f5ee) All three seat rows are fully electrically adjustable, and the third-row seats are described as fully fledged seats suitable for people up to 1.94 m (6.4 ft) tall, heated for the first time in the model line and served by two USB charging ports.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) The third-row seats lower electrically into the floor and the second row folds flat; an "ALL" button folds all rear seats simultaneously to create a flat load floor, with cargo volume reaching up to 2,400 liters.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) • [3](https://media.mercedes-benz.com/article/0843adee-6c76-4e02-a83a-13f5ee45f5ee) A six-seater layout with two luxury individual Captain's Chairs in the second row was available for the first time in a GLS.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020)
Rear passengers are the focus of the option list. The Executive Rear Seat Package adds a foldable center console with a 7-inch MBUX tablet, wireless charging, and comfort headrests, and the Package PLUS adds heated, ventilated multicontour rear seats.[4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide) Other available features include a head-up display with 720 x 240 pixel resolution, five-zone automatic climate control (standard on the GLS 580), active multicontour front seats with massage, the Burmester High-End 3D surround sound system, and the Air Balance cabin fragrance system.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) • [4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide)
## Powertrain
At launch the GLS 580 4MATIC introduced a new electrified V8 with EQ Boost, the 48-volt onboard electrical system with an integrated starter generator, while the GLS 450 4MATIC used a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 with the same system.[1](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020) The integrated starter motor adds up to 21 hp for short periods, enables "sailing" with the combustion engine off, and recovers energy through high-efficiency recuperation.[4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide)
After the 2024 facelift, the U.S. lineup's outputs were: GLS 450 4MATIC, 2,999 cc, 375 hp plus 20 hp of boost and 369 lb-ft plus 148 lb-ft of boost torque, 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.8 s; GLS 580 4MATIC, 3,982 cc, 510 hp plus 21 hp and 538 lb-ft plus 184 lb-ft, 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.7 s; both limited to 130 mph. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 makes 550 hp from the same 3,982 cc V8 with a 155 mph top speed.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software) All-wheel drive and a pulling-oriented gear ratio give a tow capacity of up to 7,716 lbs with a tongue weight of up to 309 lbs, supported by Trailer Maneuvering Assist.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software)
## Suspension and off-road features
**E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL.** The flagship suspension option is an electrohydraulic system with variable damping in which spring and damping forces can be controlled individually at each wheel; hydropneumatics overlay the air suspension forces to support and damp the body during acceleration, cornering, and on uneven roads.[4](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide) The all-round level control keeps ground clearance constant even when laden, and the vehicle lowers itself automatically at speed to improve safety and reduce fuel consumption.[5](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/passengercars/services/manuals.html/gls-suv-2020-09-x167-mbux/e-active-body-control/function-of-e-active-body-control) The camera-based Road Surface Scan detects unevenness in the road before the wheels reach it and adjusts damping accordingly.[5](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/passengercars/services/manuals.html/gls-suv-2020-09-x167-mbux/e-active-body-control/function-of-e-active-body-control)
For off-road use, the facelifted GLS carries an Off-Road Mode in the MBUX system that displays gradient, lateral inclination, compass, and steering angle, and with the standard Surround View system offers a "transparent hood" virtual view under the front of the vehicle. The Off-Road Package for the GLS 580 adds an underride guard and, with the standard AIRMATIC suspension, 1.2 inches of extra ground clearance.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software)
## 2024 facelift
The mid-cycle update was announced on April 4, 2023, alongside the facelifted GLE. Visually it brought a more striking radiator grille with four louvers in Silver Shadow finish, a more prominent front bumper with high-gloss black surround, a redesigned underride guard, and new Twilight Blue Metallic and MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey paint finishes.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software) Inside, the update added the latest-generation steering wheel with touch controls on the spokes, the newest MBUX software generation, and two 100 W USB ports at the rear of the center console.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software) The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 gained vertical chrome grille bars, an optional 23-inch forged wheel, animated Maybach-pattern ambient lighting, and diamond-quilted exclusive Nappa leathers, while the AMG GLS 63 received a new LED rear light signature, red brake calipers, and an AMG-specific door projection animation.[2](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software) For the 2025 model year Mercedes added four MANUFAKTUR Signature paints, three matching Nappa leather colors, and a standard biometric fingerprint sensor.[7](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2025-mercedes-benz-model-line-updates)
## Market position and reception
The GLS competes chiefly with the [BMW X7](https://www.edgepedia.org/bmw-x7), which was launched in 2019 as BMW's first entry in the full-size three-row luxury segment after years of the GLS-class having no direct BMW rival.[10](https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison-test/a30384873/2019-bmw-x7-vs-2020-mercedes-benz-gls/) [Consumer Reports](https://www.edgepedia.org/consumer-reports) describes the GLS as a top player among posh three-row SUVs, praising the roomy cabin, a third row usable by teens and adults, and the comfortable, steady ride of the standard air suspension, while criticizing convoluted controls and below-average predicted reliability; it lists one recall for the 2025 model and an EPA combined figure of 21 mpg.[11](https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/gls/2025/road-test-report/) Reviewers in India noted that the second row's 100 mm of powered fore-and-aft sliding creates a limousine-like middle row at the cost of third-row space compared with the previous generation.[8](https://www.autocarindia.com/car-reviews/2020-mercedes-benz-gls-india-review-test-drive-417846)
Several recalls have affected the platform. Mercedes-Benz AG determined that on certain 167-platform GLE and GLS vehicles the 48V ground connection under the passenger seat might have come loose, prompting a check and correction campaign from August 2024.[12](https://recall.cpa.gov.om/getpdf.ashx?NewsContentId=91404&lang=en) A separate campaign (number 5494206) covered GLS 450 4MATIC, GLE 450 4MATIC, and Maybach GLS 480 4MATIC vehicles built from June 2019 to July 2023 for a transmission control software update to correct an engine stalling issue.[13](https://www.vr.org.vn/contents/notice/Lists/Notice/Attachments/2927/11.%20Mercedes%20GLS450%20ma%20so%205494206_%20NK_ALL.pdf)
## References
1. [The new Mercedes-Benz GLS, Mercedes-Benz USA Newsroom (April 17, 2019)](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-mercedes-benz-gls-2020)
2. [The new GLS models: fresh look, new software, Mercedes-Benz USA Newsroom (April 4, 2023)](https://media.mbusa.com/news/the-new-gls-models-fresh-look-new-software)
3. [Der neue Mercedes-Benz GLS: Die S-Klasse unter den SUV, Mercedes-Benz Media (April 17, 2019)](https://media.mercedes-benz.com/article/0843adee-6c76-4e02-a83a-13f5ee45f5ee)
4. [2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV Quick Reference Guide, Mercedes-Benz USA Newsroom](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2022-mercedes-benz-gls-suv-quick-reference-guide)
5. [Function of E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, GLS SUV (X167) Owner's Manual, Mercedes-Benz](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/passengercars/services/manuals.html/gls-suv-2020-09-x167-mbux/e-active-body-control/function-of-e-active-body-control)
6. [New 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS FACELIFT, Planet Car News (April 4, 2023)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_P7NM2dJaPI)
7. [2025 Mercedes-Benz Model Line Updates, Mercedes-Benz USA Newsroom (October 16, 2024)](https://media.mbusa.com/news/2025-mercedes-benz-model-line-updates)
8. [2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS India review, test drive, Autocar India (July 3, 2020)](https://www.autocarindia.com/car-reviews/2020-mercedes-benz-gls-india-review-test-drive-417846)
9. [World premieres of new GLE and GLS marked by five-millionth model assembled at MBUSI in Tuscaloosa, Mercedes-Benz Group (March 31, 2026)](https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/production/5-mil-vehicles-tuscaloosa.html)
10. [2019 BMW X7 vs. 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, Car and Driver (January 3, 2020)](https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison-test/a30384873/2019-bmw-x7-vs-2020-mercedes-benz-gls/)
11. [2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS Road Test Report, Consumer Reports](https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/gls/2025/road-test-report/)
12. [Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS recall notice, 48V ground connection, Oman Consumer Protection](https://recall.cpa.gov.om/getpdf.ashx?NewsContentId=91404&lang=en)
13. [Recall campaign 5494206, GLS 450 4MATIC / GLE 450 4MATIC / Maybach GLS 480 4MATIC (X167), Vietnam Register](https://www.vr.org.vn/contents/notice/Lists/Notice/Attachments/2927/11.%20Mercedes%20GLS450%20ma%20so%205494206_%20NK_ALL.pdf)
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*Topic: Encyclopedia › Technology and the built world › Transport and spaceflight › Road transport › Automobiles › German automobile models › Mercedes-Benz models*
*Initially written Sep 17, 2026 · Reviewed: Oct 15, 2026 · Edited: Oct 15, 2026 · Last review: Oct 15, 2026*
*Copyright 2026 EdgeChat AI, a subsidiary of Biostate AI.*
License: Edgepedia Community License 1.0, https://www.edgepedia.org/edgepedia/license