The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Adds Flat-Plane V-8 Power
Mercedes upgrades its flagship SUV with S-Class-derived mild-hybrid powertrains, a Superscreen cabin, and AI-driven luxury tech.
Summary
- 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class facelift adds S-Class engine technology and a new dashboard-spanning Superscreen
- GLS580 model features a new flat-plane-crank twin-turbo V-8 making 530 horsepower
- Cabin upgrades include an AI-powered virtual assistant, advanced massage seats, and built-in videoconferencing
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is receiving a mid-cycle facelift that injects an array of powertrain upgrades and high-tech luxury features into the brand’s largest SUV. Expected to hit the streets later this year with a slight price bump, the updated GLS integrates heavy-hitting mechanical components directly derived from the flagship S-Class, amplifying both its on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Under the hood, engineers have equipped the GLS with two new mild-hybrid powertrains tied to an integrated starter generator and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The top-tier GLS580 is now powered by a flat-plane-crank 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine pushing a massive 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the base GLS450 model features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that delivers 375 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Both models retain standard full-time all-wheel drive with a low-range reduction gear, alongside a standard air suspension system. The V-8 model can also be dialed up with an E-Active Body Control suspension that can iron out curves or literally bounce the vehicle out of deep sand.
Inside, the 2027 GLS-Class adopts a dashboard-spanning Superscreen layout, integrating three 12.3-inch displays under a single glass panel while retaining physical climate and off-road controls. The cabin interface is driven by a supercharged MBUX virtual assistant equipped with artificial intelligence integrations, along with videoconferencing capabilities via a built-in camera to take Microsoft Teams meetings on the go. Passenger comfort is elevated with upgraded vibrating front massage seats, while an optional Executive Rear Seat Package adds multicontour seating, dual entertainment screens, wireless chargers, and headrest pillows. Exterior tweaks are rounded out by redesigned grilles and new lighting elements that feature an available illuminated three-pointed star hood ornament.
