Mercedes-Benz is not ready to say goodbye to the GLS just yet. Instead, the German automaker is extending the life of its flagship SUV with a second facelift for the 2027 model, following a similar strategy as seen with the GLE and S-Class. This move is a clear attempt to keep the GLS competitive in the ever-evolving luxury SUV market, especially as the future of a fourth-generation GLS remains uncertain.
Spy shots from the Nürburgring and public roads reveal that the 2027 GLS will see updates primarily at the front. The prototype captured on the track shows camouflaged front-end details, hinting at a redesigned bumper, grille, and possibly tweaked headlights. Inside, the dashboard is also masked, indicating that Mercedes plans to introduce updates to the infotainment system, and potentially, a revised center console and controls.
More intriguing is the prototype of the AMG GLS 63, spotted with minimal camouflage on the hood and headlight areas. Despite rumors of increased electrification across Mercedes’ lineup, this AMG model notably lacks a charging port flap, suggesting that it won’t adopt the plug-in hybrid V8 setup seen in the S 63 E PERFORMANCE, which boasts 791 horsepower and a mind-blowing 1,055 lb-ft of torque. This decision indicates that Mercedes might be opting for traditional powertrains for its high-performance SUV, at least for now.
The decision to facelift the GLS instead of introducing a new generation is financially prudent, especially as the luxury SUV market remains fiercely competitive. While sales of the S-Class sedan have slumped—forcing Mercedes to reduce production shifts at its Sindelfingen plant—GLS sales are on the rise. In the first half of 2024, the GLS saw a 22% increase in the U.S., with 14,247 units sold, making it the third-best-selling Mercedes SUV after the GLC and GLE.
For the U.S. market, the 2025 GLS lineup will continue to offer a range of options starting with the six-cylinder GLS 450, priced at $89,200 before destination charges. Moving up the ladder, the GLS 580 brings twin-turbo V8 power, while the AMG GLS 63 offers even more muscle. At the top of the spectrum, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 features a 550-horsepower V8, developed by AMG, with all models benefiting from mild-hybrid assistance.
As Mercedes prepares to unveil the refreshed 2027 GLS, the brand is clearly aiming to maintain its stronghold in the luxury SUV segment, offering updated tech and design tweaks while preserving the traditional performance that has made the GLS a favorite among luxury SUV buyers.
