Mercedes Benz has kick started 2024 in a grand manner by launching the facelifted GLS. The updated iteration of the flagship SUV is available in two variants– GLS 450 and GLS 450d, priced at Rs 1.32 crore and Rs 1.37 crore (both ex-showroom), respectively. Initially launched in India in 2020, the facelifted model of the current-gen GLS made its global debut in April last year.
Mercedes Benz GLS facelift: Updated exterior
The facelifted flagship SUV from Merc gets subtle yet noticeable visual upgrades– the most prominent of all is a revised front grille which houses four new horizontal louvres finished in Silver Shadow finish. The grille is flanked by restyled headlamps with updated internals. Additionally, a new front bumper with air inlet grilles and high-gloss black surrounds, and new tail-lamps that get three horizontal block patterns, forming a new motif.
Side profile remains unchanged with multi-spoke alloy wheels and a flat roofline with roof rails being the only highlights. At the rear, taillights are also updated with new tri-LED elements. The bumper gets a faux diffuser housing twin exhaust outlets with chrome finish. The 2024 GLS will be offered with five exterior paint schemes– Obsidian Black, Polar White and three new additions– Sodalite blue, High-tech Silver and Selenite Grey.
Mercedes Benz GLS facelift: Interiors & features
Cabin interiors wear a new look courtesy of two new upholstery options– Catalana Brown and Bahia Brown. The twin screen setup now runs on the latest version of the MBUX OS which is available in three variants namely Classic, Sporty, and Discreet.. In India, the GLS is offered only as a seven-seater with no option of captain seats in the middle row. Buyers can also opt for a rear-seat entertainment package.
Other novelties offered in the GLS include five-zone climate control, wireless phone charger, 64-colour ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, powered second-row seats, a Parking Package that comprises a permanent low-speed 360-degree camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant, a13-speaker Burmester® surround sound and a powered-tailgate among many others.
Safety is ensured by nine airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Mercedes Benz GLS facelift: Powertrain options
There are two powertrain options on offer with the new Mercedes GLS. The 450 is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that pumps out 375 bhp and 500 NM of peak torque.The 450d, on the other hand, gets a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel motor under its hood which dishes out 362 bhp and 700 Nm of torque.
Both engines are paired with a new 48V mild hybrid system with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) which gives additional power (20 bhp) and torque (+200 Nm) when driving conditions require it. In both cases, transmission duties are carried out by a 9-speed automatic gearbox which sends power to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system.