What’s New for the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS?

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV receives a substantial update with stronger powertrains, revised exterior details, a new digital operating system, three standard dashboard displays, and expanded rear-seat technology. It remains the largest SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, offering three power-adjustable seating rows and room for up to seven passengers.

For Birmingham families and luxury SUV buyers, the new GLS combines full-size passenger space with standard 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC® air suspension, and technology designed to make long trips and daily driving more comfortable. Mercedes-Benz says the updated GLS 450, GLS 580, and Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 will reach U.S. dealerships later in 2026.

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS Highlights

• Seating for up to seven across three power-adjustable rows
• Updated GLS 450 and GLS 580 powertrains with increased torque
• Standard 4MATIC® all-wheel drive with Torque on Demand
• Standard AIRMATIC® air suspension with intelligent damping
• Standard MBUX Superscreen with three 12.3-inch displays
• New Mercedes-Benz Operating System, known as MB.OS
• Available dual-screen rear entertainment system
• Updated MB.DRIVE assistance and parking technologies
• Revised Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 with 603 horsepower
• Expected U.S. arrival later in 2026

What Is New on the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV?

The 2027 GLS retains its upright full-size SUV proportions but receives several exterior changes that connect it more closely with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. A Mercedes-Benz Star now sits on the hood and can be optionally illuminated. The redesigned grille features an available illuminated chrome surround, while the headlamps and taillights incorporate Mercedes-Benz Star patterns.

The next generation of DIGITAL LIGHT is also available for the first time on the U.S.-market GLS. The system uses micro-LED technology and adds a partial high-beam function designed to improve nighttime illumination while limiting glare for surrounding traffic. The Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 receives its own revised front fascia with changes intended to support airflow and distinguish it from the standard GLS models.

The larger changes are found beneath the bodywork and inside the cabin. The GLS 450 and GLS 580 gain additional torque, the suspension can use connected road information to prepare for certain surface imperfections, and the infotainment system now runs on the new MB.OS platform. Together, these updates make the 2027 GLS more than a cosmetic refresh.

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS Engine and Performance Options

The 2027 GLS lineup includes two standard Mercedes-Benz models and one Mercedes-AMG® performance model. The GLS 450 uses a turbocharged inline-six, the GLS 580 has a V8, and the AMG® GLS 63 uses an AMG®-built biturbo V8. Every model includes all-wheel drive and mild-hybrid electrical assistance.

The GLS 450 should remain the most balanced choice for many Birmingham drivers. Its six-cylinder engine produces 375 horsepower, while torque rises to 413 lb-ft. That additional torque should be most noticeable during highway merging, passing, and acceleration with passengers or cargo aboard. An integrated starter generator can temporarily contribute another 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.

The GLS 580 increases output to 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft from its 4.0-liter V8. Its estimated 4.6-second sprint to 60 mph is quick for a three-row SUV of this size. The GLS 580 also offers E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, a hydraulically supported suspension system designed to manage individual wheel movements and reduce body motion.

The AMG® GLS 63 sits at the top of the performance range with 603 horsepower, 627 lb-ft, and an estimated 3.9-second 0-to-60-mph time. Its electronically limited top speed reaches 174 mph. Those figures place it firmly in high-performance territory, even though it retains seating for seven and the everyday utility expected from a GLS.

How Will the 2027 GLS Handle Birmingham Roads?

Every 2027 GLS includes 4MATIC® all-wheel drive with Torque on Demand. The system can vary power distribution based on traction requirements, acceleration, steering input, and other driving conditions. This can provide added support during heavy Alabama rain and on loose or uneven surfaces without requiring the driver to switch manually between two-wheel and four-wheel drive.

Standard AIRMATIC® air suspension is equally important to the GLS’s road manners. The system can adjust damping and ride height to account for speed, vehicle load, and road conditions. Its new intelligent damping function can use road data stored in the Mercedes-Benz Cloud to help prepare the suspension for certain bumps before the SUV reaches them.

That technology could be useful across Birmingham’s mix of interstates, suburban roads, expansion joints, and aging pavement. It should also help the GLS maintain a controlled ride on longer trips along I-65, I-20, or I-459. Drivers interested in the drivetrain can read more about how Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® differs from other all-wheel-drive systems.

Three Rows Built for Passenger Comfort

The GLS is the flagship choice for Mercedes-Benz buyers who regularly need three rows. It accommodates up to seven passengers and provides power adjustment for all three seating rows. That makes it easier to change the seating arrangement when switching between school drop-offs, airport trips, business transportation, and family travel.

Unlike the optional third rows found in smaller SUVs, the GLS is designed from the outset as a full-size three-row vehicle. Its larger body provides more space for passengers to enter, exit, and settle into the rear cabin. Buyers can also choose configurations and packages that place greater emphasis on second-row comfort or executive transportation.

The additional room should suit Birmingham households carrying children, teenagers, grandparents, or visiting family members. It also gives the GLS an advantage for trips to Lake Martin, the Gulf Coast, Atlanta, or Nashville, particularly when passengers will spend several hours in the vehicle.

Buyers who are comparing passenger and cargo needs can review our guide to the Mercedes-Benz SUVs with the most cargo space. The Mercedes-Benz GLS vs. BMW X7 comparison also provides context for shoppers deciding between two full-size European luxury SUVs.

What Is the 2027 GLS MBUX Superscreen?

The standard MBUX Superscreen combines three individual 12.3-inch displays beneath one continuous glass surface. The layout includes a digital instrument display for the driver, a central touchscreen, and a separate display for the front passenger. This gives the passenger access to compatible entertainment, navigation, media, and vehicle functions without taking over the center screen.

The displays run through the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System, or MB.OS. This platform connects the infotainment, assistance, comfort, and vehicle systems through one digital framework. It also supports over-the-air updates and provides the foundation for the latest MBUX and MB.DRIVE technologies.

The newest MBUX Virtual Assistant uses generative artificial intelligence to understand more conversational requests. Navigation is provided through Google Maps®, while MBUX Surround Navigation can display nearby vehicles, road markings, and route information in a visualized format. An enhanced Zero Layer interface is designed to surface relevant functions without requiring the driver to move through several menus.

Available MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation can place route guidance over a live camera view of the road. For a closer look at the display layout, read our guide to how the MBUX Superscreen changes daily driving in Alabama.

Rear-Seat Entertainment and Executive Features

The 2027 GLS places more emphasis on rear-seat technology than the smaller GLE. The available MBUX High-End Rear Seating Entertainment system includes two 11.6-inch HD displays for second-row passengers. Integrated HD cameras can support compatible video calls, while the screens can also be used for films, music, and other media.

The available Executive Rear Seat Package Plus is intended for buyers who place a higher priority on second-row comfort and amenities. Exact U.S. package contents and pricing have not yet been announced, but Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that it will be offered with the updated GLS.

Wireless phone charging and USB charging ports help keep devices powered across the cabin. ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL adds multistage cabin filtration, while the panoramic roof provides more than 10.8 square feet of glass. Together, these features make the GLS particularly well suited to families, executive transportation, and buyers who frequently travel with passengers.

What Is MB.DRIVE on the 2027 GLS?

MB.DRIVE is the name Mercedes-Benz uses for the updated GLS driver-assistance and parking systems. These technologies combine cameras, radar sensors, vehicle data, and software to assist with functions related to following distance, lane positioning, surrounding traffic, and low-speed maneuvering.

MB.DRIVE and MB.DRIVE ASSIST are included as standard or available depending on the specific function and model. Mercedes-Benz has also announced available MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO, MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST, and MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST 360. Over-the-air updates can be delivered through the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud.

Exact package contents and operating conditions will be clearer when U.S. production details are released. These systems remain driver-assistance technologies and do not make the GLS autonomous. The driver remains responsible for monitoring traffic and operating the vehicle safely.

What Changes on the 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63?

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 retains its 4.0-liter biturbo V8 but receives revisions intended to sharpen its response. Output remains at 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft, while the integrated starter generator can temporarily add 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. Mercedes-Benz estimates that the AMG® GLS 63 can reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds.

AMG® Performance 4MATIC®+ all-wheel drive uses fully variable torque distribution, while the AMG® SPEEDSHIFT® nine-speed transmission manages gear changes. AMG® RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, AMG® DYNAMIC SELECT, an AMG® Performance exhaust system, and AMG®-specific displays are also included.

The AMG® GLS 63 is not simply a GLS 580 with more power. Its brakes, suspension calibration, transmission behavior, exhaust, exterior details, and drive programs are developed around higher-performance use. It remains an unusual combination of three-row passenger capacity and acceleration comparable to many dedicated sports cars.

Drivers considering the AMG® model can review current Mercedes-AMG inventory in Birmingham.

How Does the GLS Compare With Other Full-Size Luxury SUVs?

The GLS competes with vehicles such as the BMW X7 and Cadillac Escalade, but each approaches the full-size luxury category differently. The GLS places particular emphasis on suspension technology, digital integration, all-wheel-drive performance, and comfort across all three rows.

The BMW X7 offers a similar European three-row format, while the Escalade uses a larger, more traditional full-size SUV layout with additional cargo capacity. Birmingham buyers deciding among these vehicles should consider how often they use the third row, how much luggage they carry, and whether they prefer road-focused comfort or maximum interior volume.

For more detail, review our Mercedes-Benz GLS vs. BMW X7 comparison and our Mercedes-Benz GLS vs. Cadillac Escalade comparison.

When Will the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS Be Available?

Mercedes-Benz says the 2027 GLS SUV and Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 SUV will arrive at U.S. dealerships later in 2026. Exact arrival dates for Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham, starting prices, packages, and initial allocations have not yet been announced.

Buyers who do not plan to wait can currently shop GLS 450, GLS 580, and Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63 models. You can view current Mercedes-Benz GLS inventory in Birmingham or contact our team for information about incoming 2027 models.

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV FAQs

Is the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS fully redesigned?

The 2027 GLS receives an extensive update rather than moving to an entirely new generation. Changes include revised exterior styling, stronger torque figures, new digital systems, updated assistance technology, and additional passenger features.

How many people can the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS seat?

The 2027 GLS accommodates up to seven passengers across three power-adjustable seating rows.

What engines are available in the 2027 GLS?

The confirmed lineup includes a 375-horsepower inline-six in the GLS 450, a 530-horsepower V8 in the GLS 580, and a 603-horsepower biturbo V8 in the Mercedes-AMG® GLS 63.

Does the 2027 GLS have all-wheel drive?

Yes. The GLS 450 and GLS 580 use 4MATIC® all-wheel drive with Torque on Demand. The AMG® GLS 63 uses AMG® Performance 4MATIC®+ with fully variable torque distribution.

Does the 2027 GLS have the MBUX Superscreen?

Yes. The MBUX Superscreen is standard and includes three individual 12.3-inch displays beneath one continuous glass surface.

When will the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS arrive in Birmingham?

Mercedes-Benz says the 2027 GLS family will arrive at U.S. dealerships later in 2026. Exact availability at Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham has not yet been announced.

Stay Updated on the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2027 GLS builds upon its flagship three-row format with stronger performance, revised suspension technology, a new digital architecture, and additional passenger amenities. The result should appeal to Birmingham drivers who need genuine three-row space but still want the road manners, technology, and cabin quality associated with Mercedes-Benz.

Contact Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham for updates on pricing, ordering, and local arrival timing, or browse current GLS models online.

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