The largest SUV in the family is not the BoF model. It is strange, knowing the G-Wagon is using a ladder frame to improve the performance. Also, the BMW X7 came out with the body-on-frame architecture. However, it seems like the German company doesn’t care about that. The 2024 Mercedes GLS is coming unchanged, and the redesign scheduled for the following model is not going to switch platforms. Why would it? The GLS sells well. Buyers are happy with the luxury and space the SUV is offering.
The company doesn’t offer a coupe version of the full-size SUV like it’s the case with the GLE. But, there will be plenty of options to upgrade the performance, luxury, comfort and technology. The base model comes out as the GLS 450. Don’t let the price trick you -this model is using an I6 engine. Pretty potent, though. Of course, fans want a V8, but it costs more than $100k. The AMG is a high-performance version. But, not the most expensive model in the lineup. What can beat it? The Maybach package! That is not the end of the surprises the 2024 Mercedes GLS is going to offer. An all-electric drivetrain is on the way and it can debut as the EQS model.
Base Configuration
Under the hood of the 2024 Mercedes GLS 450 is a 3.0-liter turbocharged I6 engine with 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. This is not bad for the full-size class, but again, not enough for the luxury segment and Mercedes. Of course, an all-wheel drive is standard. That is the company’s famous 4Matic system. The gas mileage is not so great thanks to the size of the SUV. But, it can accelerate 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds.
The list of features is really long. Here are just some of the highlights: adaptive air suspension, 20-inch wheels (you can pick even bigger), automatic high-beam headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a hands-free liftgate on the outside, and in the cabin, you can find customizable ambient lighting, a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate, power-adjustable front seats with memory, heating and cooling, MBUX infotainment system with a 12-inch screen, navigation, and Burmester surround-sound system. All that is worth $80,000.
2024 Mercedes GLS 580 Adds a V8 Engine
The GLS 580 SUV upgrades the lower trim with more advanced features. But first and most important – a turbocharged V8 engine is there to crack 483 hp. That is Mercedes performance that makes the SUV sprint 0-60 mph in 5.1 sec. The engine also delivers 516 lb-ft. The GLS 450 already offers plenty of premium options, but something is saved for higher trims. For example, the GLS 580 adds larger wheels, illuminated running boards, soft-close doors, an additional zone for climate control, genuine leather upholstery and a massage function for seats. This version is already in the six-digit price realm, and the best upgrades are yet to be reviewed.
AMG Performance SUV and Maybach Super-Luxurious Model
Of course, the company is delivering the AMG package for its largest SUV. A handcrafted 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine is producing 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, making the 2024 Mercedes GLS AMG 63 one of the most powerful SUVs in the market. It stops the clock just after 4 seconds when it hits 60 mph from zero. To handle such power, engineers revisit a nine-speed auto gearbox and the AWD system. Also, the suspension system features active roll stabilization. Steering, braking and exhaust are also performance-tuned. The AMG package also includes unique sports seats, a heated second-row, and blind-spot intervention for a safer ride.
The AMG package is the most powerful, but not the most luxurious and most expensive model in the lineup, although it costs $140,000. The 2024 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is priced $170,000 and this indicates the expectations. Well, the company is not pushing the engine to the limits. The 4.0-liter biturbo V8 comes with 550 hp. The SUV rolls on the 22-inch wheels and uses E-Active Body Control adaptive suspension. Inside, you can find a pair of 7-inch screens in the back, wireless charging pads and upgraded Burmester sound system. Drivers are getting even more help from the state of art safety system. There are also a few additional options available, even for the Maybach version of the GLS SUV. Those are unique 2-tone paintjobs, folding tables for passengers in the second row, or 23-inch wheels.
Mercedes EQS Electric
The SUV is already using a mild-hybrid system that saves fuel. It is not big, but the MHEV helps. The EQS is a zero-emission electric SUV that can debut already as the 2024 YM. The base version should be the EQS 450+ with 300 miles of range. Other versions are yet to be announced, as well as the price. A hefty price is certain, while the release date is unknown.