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2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2017 is the new GLS name, which replaces GL-Class. Mercedes-Benz also gave its large three-row SUV a light mid-cycle update with refreshed styling, revised cabin controls, and a 9-speed automatic on non-AMG models.
About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS
X166 second generation (2013-2019), mid-cycle refresh year and first year renamed GLS.
Mercedes positions the GLS as its full-size three-row family luxury SUV with car-like road manners, not a truck-based people hauler. The core appeal is adult-friendly space in all three rows, a smooth ride from the air suspension, strong towing ability, and a cabin that feels closer to the brand’s large sedans than to a traditional body-on-frame SUV. That mix of family usefulness, comfort, and prestige is what sets the GLS apart.
The 2017 GLS is a large, comfort-focused three-row luxury SUV, with the GLS 450 serving as the all-purpose V6 family model. The GLS 350d emphasizes diesel pulling power and long-distance cruising, while the GLS 550 adds a 449-hp twin-turbo V8, leather, ventilated front seats, navigation, and a surround-view camera.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The non-AMG GLS 350d, GLS 450, and GLS 550 switched from a 7-speed automatic to a 9-speed automatic. Engine output also increased for the diesel and V8 versions.
Styling
Mercedes-Benz revised the front-end design and added new LED taillamps as part of the light exterior refresh.
Tech
The cabin received revised controls. An 8-inch central display was used in the GLS 450 and GLS 550, with navigation standard on the GLS 550.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0L | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.7L | V6, Turbo Dsl, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Auto, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Auto, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 14 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 18 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 362 hp | 449 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 455 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7500 lb | 7500 lb | 7500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 93.8 cu-ft | 93.8 cu-ft | 93.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Massage Front Seat | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS a full redesign?
No. The 2017 GLS is a light mid-cycle update of the existing X166 model, not a full redesign. It remains on the same platform introduced for the 2013 model year.
Did the GLS replace the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class for 2017?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz renamed the GL-Class as the GLS for 2017 to fit its newer SUV naming structure. The name change came with refreshed styling and cabin updates.
What changed from the 2016 GL-Class to the 2017 GLS?
The 2017 GLS brought a new model name, a revised front end, LED taillamps, updated cabin controls, and a 9-speed automatic for non-AMG models. Output also increased for the diesel and V8 versions.
Do the non-AMG 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS models have a 9-speed automatic?
Yes. The 2017 GLS 350d, GLS 450, and GLS 550 use a 9-speed automatic, replacing the previous 7-speed transmission on non-AMG versions.
Which 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS trim has the V8?
The GLS 550 is the V8 model among the trims covered here. Its 449-hp twin-turbo V8 is paired with a 9-speed automatic, and the trim also has leather, ventilated front seats, navigation, and a surround-view camera.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS.
4.3
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS
(409 reviews)
“The GLS550 is very comfortable and roomy. It offers plenty of power with reasonable mileage for a large SUV. It offers all of the luxuries and reliability of a Mercedes.”
“Like the size, great that it is now a 6 cylinder, much better gas mileage. Handles very well, comfortable interior.”