2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-class Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
Mercedes-Benz’s largest and most luxe SUV is the 2026 GLS, blending three-row practicality with cutting-edge tech and upscale comfort. Often called the “S-Class of SUVs,” it delivers flagship refinement with commanding presence.
Luxury full-size three-row SUV competitors include the BMW X7, Infiniti QX80, and Cadillac Escalade.
What’s New
Limited to 450 units worldwide, the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 Manufaktur Arctic Silver Edition is new this year. Features of the appearance special include:
Exterior
- Model-specific Manufaktur Cirrus Silver Magno paint with black and red accents
- Matte black and red 23-inch AMG forged wheels
- Red AMG brake calipers
- AMG Night package with gloss-black AMG front splitter and bumper air inlets, side mirror caps, side sill panel inserts, window surrounds, and rear fascia trim
- Dark chrome exhaust finisher
- Matte black roof rails
- Rear tinted windows aft of the B‑pillars
Interior
- Manufaktur Carmine red and black Nappa leather upholstery with quilted seats
- AMG Performance steering wheel and front handrest with embossed AMG crest
- Model specific AMG carbon-fiber trim with red accents with bright chrome Manufaktur Arctic Silver branding on the passenger side of the dash
- Manufaktur black door sill trim with model-specific illuminated white AMG lettering
- Deep-pile floormats with a red AMG logo embroidered on black leather
What We Think
Mercedes-Benz’s flagship SUV, the GLS, mostly delivers on its promises of capability, practicality, and legitimate luxury.
The interior is lined with high-end materials, sleek design elements, and vibrant ambient lighting that complements the expansive digital displays. It feels like a premium experience, but the GLS doesn’t quite match the ultra-luxury standard set by the S-Class, with more plastic present than one might expect at this level. Still, considering its intended versatility and utility, that trade-off is somewhat understandable.
Performance-wise, the 2026 GLS is impressively refined. The transmission could be a bit smoother, but its engines are strong and deliver seamless power. Despite its size, the GLS handles with surprising agility, and the AMG-tuned GLS63 brings thrilling performance that highlights the brand’s sporty edge.
As a three-row SUV, the GLS falls slightly short in terms of third-row space and cargo capacity compared to some rivals. However, if you're more focused on luxury, driving refinement, and overall presence, it remains a highly compelling choice at the top of Mercedes-Benz’s SUV range.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
The GLS can be outfitted with an inline-six engine, but most models use a V-8. All of them are turbocharged. A nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD are also standard on every version.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS450
- Engine: 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six
- Horsepower/Torque: 375 hp/369 lb-ft
- Acceleration (0–60 mph): 5.5 seconds
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS580
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8
- Horsepower/Torque: 510 hp/538 lb-ft
- Acceleration (0–60 mph): 4.1 seconds
2026 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8
- Horsepower/Torque: 550 hp/538 lb-ft
- Acceleration (0–60 mph): 4.2 seconds
2026 Mercedes-AMG GLS63
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8
- Horsepower/Torque: 603 hp/627 lb-ft
- Acceleration (0–60 mph): 3.7 seconds
MPGs and Range
No GLS excels in fuel economy, but that could probably be said about most big three-row SUVs. With its smaller six-cylinder engine, the GLS450 base model returns the best ratings of the lineup, at 19/24 mpg city/highway. It can also deliver up to 500 miles of driving range.
The GLS580 gets 14/19 mpg and as much as 381 miles of range. With 14/18 mpg, the AMG is only slightly better than the Maybach, with 13/18 mpg, but both can see as much as 357 miles of range.
Safety Features
- Automatic emergency braking
- Rear and side cross-traffic alerts
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane keeping
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high-beams
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Emergency evasive steering assist
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Second-row legroom compares favorably to the X7 and QX80, but as is typical in this class, the third row feels tight. Standard cargo capacity (with all three rows in use) is also more than what the BMW offers.
Technology
Infotainment
A 12.3-inch driver display and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen come with every GLS, as does wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mercedes also includes a wireless phone charger and eight USB ports.
Sound System
A Burmester 13-speaker surround sound system is standard. Mercedes also offers a 29-speaker 3D surround sound setup from the same maker.
Available Upgrades
Many premium niceties are among upgrades, like soft-close doors, heated armrests, heated and cooled front cupholders, and a cabin fragrance system. The second row can be outfitted with a wireless phone charger and heated, ventilated, and massaging seats.
Value
Standard Features
Generous tech and capable powertrains come with every GLS, plus most models provide an upscale cabin. Driving manners are mostly good, too.
Recommended Trim
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class comes in four trims: GLS450, GLS580, AMG GLS63, and Maybach GLS600. For most drivers seeking a Mercedes three-row SUV, the inline-six-powered base model is so solid and capable, it makes the V-8 versions feel almost unnecessary.
