Mercedes-Benz GL-Class facelift caught testing with new front end
Camouflaged prototypes of the updated Mercedes-Benz GL-Class have been spotted on the road, revealing changes to the SUV’s front design ahead of its expected 2015 debut.
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a facelift for its GL-Class SUV, with heavily camouflaged prototypes recently photographed during road testing. The revised model is set to bring updated styling to the second-generation GL (X166), which has been on the market since 2012.
The latest spy shots show substantial camouflage across the front end, pointing to changes in the bumper, grille and headlamps. These tweaks are expected to bring the GL-Class’s appearance closer to newer Mercedes models, such as the S-Class Coupe and the facelifted E-Class, which have both adopted the brand’s latest design cues. The rear of the prototype appears largely unchanged, suggesting the main visual updates will focus on the front.
Front-end redesign aligns GL-Class with Mercedes range
The camouflage on the test vehicles covers the entire front fascia, including the bumper and grille, as well as the lighting units. Mercedes has followed a similar approach with recent facelifts across its line-up, including the E-Class and A-Class, typically updating the front to reflect the evolving family look. The GL-Class’s new front is likely to feature reshaped headlights, a revised grille and a more sculpted bumper. These changes are intended to keep the large SUV visually competitive in a segment where rivals are also introducing refreshed designs.
No evidence from the test cars or available information suggests major changes to the rear or the interior. The focus appears to be on exterior styling, with the mechanical package expected to carry over. The current GL-Class engine line-up includes a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, a 4.6-litre V8 petrol, and a 5.5-litre biturbo V8 for the AMG variant. Mercedes has not indicated any new powertrains for the facelifted model at this stage.
What the facelift means for buyers and dealers
For buyers, the facelift will bring the GL-Class’s looks and equipment in line with the rest of the Mercedes SUV range, helping to maintain resale values and showroom appeal. Dealers can expect the updated model to attract renewed interest from customers considering alternatives such as the BMW X7 or Range Rover. As with previous Mercedes facelifts, pricing and equipment levels are likely to see minor adjustments, but the core offering will remain focused on luxury and space.
Facelifted GL-Class joins other refreshed Mercedes models
The GL-Class facelift follows a series of similar updates across the Mercedes-Benz range. The E-Class received a substantial facelift for the 2014 model year, and the A-Class has also been spotted testing in revised form. Mercedes is clearly working to keep its SUV line-up fresh as competition intensifies in the luxury segment.
- Second-generation GL-Class launched in 2012
- Facelifted model expected to debut in 2015
- Engine line-up to remain unchanged
- Front-end styling updates to match newer Mercedes models
More on recent Mercedes-Benz facelifts:Mercedes-Benz debuts facelifted E-Class range at Detroit
