What’s Changing with the Mercedes-Maybach GLS Facelift?
If you’ve been keeping an eye on luxury SUVs, you might’ve noticed the Mercedes-Maybach GLS quietly making moves behind the scenes. While electric SUVs often steal the spotlight these days, the Maybach GLS is getting a refresh that’s worth a closer look—especially if you’re a fan of subtle design tweaks and next-level tech.
How Is the Grille Design Evolving?
First things first: the grille. For years, the Maybach GLS has stood apart from its Mercedes siblings with those unmistakable vertical chrome bars and a bold, upright presence. That’s not changing, but look closer and you’ll spot a more heart-shaped outline this time around. The sides of the grille are now more tightly angled, making the lower edge noticeably shorter. It’s a small detail, but it gives the front end a sharper, more refined look—think of it as a tailored suit versus an off-the-rack blazer.
Interestingly, while the standard GLS models like the 580 are moving toward a more traditional Mercedes grille with horizontal bars (a nod to the brand’s heritage), the Maybach version is doubling down on its unique identity. The iconic iPhone-style notch at the top, housing the Maybach name, remains. It’s a subtle evolution rather than a revolution, but that’s often the Maybach way: quiet confidence over brash statements.
What’s New with Lighting and Exterior Features?
Lighting is another area where Mercedes isn’t holding back. The facelifted GLS is set to adopt star-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs) up front—a design cue already seen on the new GLC with EQ Tech. These DRLs aren’t just for show; they make the SUV instantly recognizable, day or night. Expect matching rear LED lights to follow, although the latest prototypes haven’t revealed those just yet.
The changes aren’t just about aesthetics. Modern lighting tech improves visibility and safety, and Mercedes has been at the forefront of adaptive LED systems for years. According to a 2023 report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, advanced LED headlights can reduce nighttime crash rates by up to 20% compared to halogen units. So, these upgrades aren’t just eye candy—they’re genuinely useful.
Is the Interior Getting a Major Tech Overhaul?
While spy shots haven’t given us a full peek inside the new Maybach GLS, there’s strong evidence pointing to a significant tech upgrade. Mercedes is rumored to be introducing a pillar-to-pillar digital display, stretching across the dashboard. This isn’t just a bigger screen—it’s a reimagining of how drivers and passengers interact with the vehicle.
Think about the S-Class and EQS interiors: seamless digital interfaces, customizable layouts, and voice-activated controls. The GLS is likely to follow suit, making it as much a tech lounge as a luxury cruiser. For buyers who value both comfort and cutting-edge features, this is a big deal.
Will Performance or Pricing See Big Changes?
Under the hood, the Maybach GLS 600 is expected to stick with its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, currently rated at 542 horsepower (550 PS). There’s speculation Mercedes might squeeze out a few extra ponies, but don’t expect a radical jump. What’s more certain? The price tag. With the current model starting around $180,000, industry analysts predict the refreshed version will edge even higher, reflecting both inflation and the added tech.
It’s worth noting that Mercedes-Maybach buyers aren’t typically swayed by sticker shock. For them, exclusivity and craftsmanship matter more than a few thousand dollars here or there. Still, if you’re budgeting for one, it’s smart to factor in a little extra for the facelifted model.
How Does the Maybach GLS Stand Out from Other Luxury SUVs?
In a market crowded with ultra-luxe SUVs—from the Bentley Bentayga to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan—the Maybach GLS carves out its own niche. It’s less ostentatious than some rivals, focusing on understated elegance and comfort. The vertical grille, signature lighting, and plush interior set it apart, but so does the driving experience: smooth, quiet, and effortlessly powerful.
Real-world owners often praise the Maybach GLS for its balance of presence and practicality. One executive I spoke with described it as “the only SUV that feels like a private jet on wheels, but still fits in a city parking garage.” That’s the sweet spot Mercedes is aiming for—luxury without the baggage of excess.
What’s the Big Takeaway for Potential Buyers?
If you’re in the market for a flagship SUV that doesn’t follow the crowd, the updated Maybach GLS is shaping up to be a compelling choice. The design tweaks are subtle but meaningful, the tech upgrades promise a more immersive experience, and the overall package remains true to the Maybach ethos: exclusivity, comfort, and quiet confidence.
The big takeaway? Luxury isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.