Mercedes-Benz GLS Three Generations (2007-present)

Three generations. 1st gen (X164, 2007-2012): launched as 'GL-Class' for 2007 model year — Mercedes' first dedicated full-size 3-row luxury SUV (the smaller GL was always 3-row from inception, distinct from the M-Class which was 5-passenger then). Built at Mercedes-Benz US International, Tuscaloosa, Alabama. 4.6L V8 (350 hp), 5.5L V8 on AMG (510 hp), 3.0L V6 BlueTEC diesel option. 7-speed automatic. 4MATIC AWD standard. 2nd gen (X166, 2013-2019): significant refresh — exterior restyled, cabin updated, new transmissions. 4.6L V8 GL450 (362 hp later), GL550 / GL550 4MATIC (4.6L V8, 429 hp / 516 lb-ft), GL63 AMG (5.5L twin-turbo V8 M157, 550 hp / 560 lb-ft, 7-speed AMG MCT). 2017 model year renamed from GL-Class to GLS to align with new SUV nomenclature ('GL' became 'GLS', 'ML' became 'GLE', etc.). 3rd gen (X167, 2020-present): complete redesign on platform shared with GLE / GLS-Class. Powertrains: GLS 450 (3.0L M256 turbo I6 with 48V mild-hybrid integrated starter-generator, 362 hp / 369 lb-ft + 21 hp EQ Boost, 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic, 4MATIC standard), GLS 580 4MATIC (4.0L M177 twin-turbo V8 with 48V mild-hybrid, 510 hp / 538 lb-ft + 21 hp EQ Boost, 9G-TRONIC, 4MATIC), AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ (4.0L M177 twin-turbo V8 — same engine, AMG-tuned to 603 hp / 627 lb-ft + 21 hp EQ Boost, 9-speed AMG TCT (clutch-pack-based wet auto, NOT a torque converter), 4MATIC+ AWD with rear-axle bias under load, electronic locking rear differential, AMG Active Ride Control air suspension, 4.1 sec 0-60, ~174 mph electronically governed top speed). And the flagship Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC ($170k+ starting, 4.0L M177 twin-turbo V8 with 48V mild-hybrid, 550 hp / 538 lb-ft + 21 hp EQ Boost, 9G-TRONIC, 4MATIC, Maybach-specific cabin with quilted Nappa leather, executive rear seats with reclining function and footrests, refrigerated rear console, dedicated Maybach exterior trim with chrome and unique 22-inch wheels). Cabin: MBUX dashboard standard with dual 12.3-inch displays, optional MBUX Hyperscreen added 2024 (the 56-inch curved glass with three integrated displays). AIRMATIC adaptive air suspension standard, 48V active hydraulic body control optional (AMG / Maybach). Burmester 3D 21-speaker premium audio standard mid-trim. Trims: GLS 450 (base), GLS 580 (V8), AMG GLS 63 (top non-Maybach), Maybach GLS 600 (top luxury). The GLS 63 AMG is one of Mercedes' most popular AMG products in the US — V8 SUV halo continues to sell despite emissions pressure.