“The front driver and passenger seats need to be more luxurious and comfortable. I thought they would be softer and more comfortable than my GLS 450, but that is not accurate.”
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a light-update model, led by a panoramic sunroof becoming standard across the lineup. The GLS 450 also gains standard metallic paint, while the rest of the SUV is largely unchanged.
About the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS
3rd generation (X167, 2020-2023 pre-refresh), fourth year and last year before the 2024 styling update.
Mercedes-Benz positions the GLS as its full-size three-row luxury SUV with the feel of a flagship sedan. The brand’s message is essentially “three rows, all in first class”: lots of passenger space, a quiet cabin, air-suspension comfort, and upscale tech for families who need real third-row usability without giving up Mercedes luxury. Its main draw versus rivals is the blend of roomy seating, smooth ride quality, and a polished, premium cabin.
Mercedes positioned the GLS 450 as the core three-row luxury SUV, with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, AWD, air suspension, dual 12.3-inch displays and Burmester audio. The GLS 580 adds a twin-turbo V8 for stronger acceleration while keeping the same roomy layout and comfort-focused character.
What changed, by category
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter w/EQ Boost | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter w/EQ Boost |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 362 hp | 483 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7700 lb | 7700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 48.7 cu-ft | 48.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Side Steps | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| 4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Massage Front Seat | ||
| Massage Rear Seat | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Ventilated Rear Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The main change for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a panoramic sunroof becoming standard across the lineup. The GLS 450 also adds standard metallic paint, and the rest of the vehicle largely carries over from 2022.
Was the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS redesigned?
No, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS was not redesigned. It is the final model year of the pre-refresh third-generation GLS before the updated styling and cabin changes arrived for 2024.
Does every 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS have a panoramic sunroof?
Yes, a panoramic sunroof is standard on every 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS. It was optional in the prior model year.
How do the 2023 GLS 450 and GLS 580 differ?
The 2023 GLS 450 uses a turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist, while the GLS 580 uses a more powerful twin-turbo V8 with mild-hybrid assist. Both have AWD, air suspension, dual 12.3-inch displays and three-row seating.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS much different from the 2022 model?
No, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is not much different from the 2022 model. Its meaningful updates are the newly standard panoramic sunroof across the lineup and standard metallic paint on the GLS 450.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS.
“Get ready to drive the beast. It is a fun car to drive, it maneuvers easily in and out of traffic. I wish I had this car 10 years ago!”
“This is an SUV that is roomy (family friendly) AND has the power to get up and go.”