2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size luxury SUV with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers and cargo capacity from 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row to 84.7 cubic feet. It competes with models such as the BMW X7, Range Rover, and Lexus LX, and offers towing capacity up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. The 2026 model year includes a mid-cycle refresh with updated exterior styling that features new LED headlights, revised bumpers, and a bolder grille, plus subtle interior modifications. The standard GLS 450 4MATIC trim employs a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid engine rated at 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The GLS incorporates the MBUX infotainment system via dual 12.3-inch digital displays for gauges and multimedia, compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, augmented reality navigation, and the "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant for tasks including route changes and climate control. For 2026, changes include a redesigned steering wheel with touch controls and more physical buttons, plus expanded driver assistance capabilities such as enhanced Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function and updated blind-spot monitoring. The Mercedes me connect app supports remote start, location tracking, and status checks, while over-the-air updates address software for navigation and assists, though certain advanced features require subscriptions beyond the trial period.

What You're Really Signing Up For

• Extensive data collection from in-vehicle cameras and microphones with confusing privacy policies.
• Mercedes can deactivate remote services at any time, including remote start behind subscriptions.
• Automatic over-the-air updates that can't be turned off.
• Glitchy CarPlay connections and clunky control interactions.