- Mercedes GLS renderings imagine a design inspired by the Vision concept.
- Next-gen SUV adopts a large illuminated grille and smoother proportions.
- Current model faces another facelift before a full redesign arrives in a few years.
Concept cars have a habit of leaning too far into fantasy, often looking like props from a science fiction film rather than machines built for real roads. Mercedes-Benz took a different approach with its new Vision Iconic concept, managing to strike a nice balance between modern and retro.
Now, there’s no official word on whether an actual car will, in some form, ever reach the production line, but it could influence future models, perhaps an S-Class coupe grand tourer.
Another model that would greatly benefit from some concept-car looks is the GLS, which is starting to feel a little old.
Read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS Will Leave You Starry-Eyed
Production of the GLS has been ongoing since 2019 and it was facelifted in 2023. Next year, it will undergo a refresh for a second time, although the changes made will probably be relatively small.
These renderings from Sugar Design, who previously applied the same creative touch to the S-Class sedan, envision the GLS in a next-generation form that feels both familiar and refreshed. It’s a concept Mercedes’ own designers would do well to study closely.
Modern Looks
Like the Vision Iconic, this interpretation of the GLS has been imagined with a large illuminated LED front grille and a set of small headlights with star-shaped daytime running lights. It has more flowing lines than the current SUV, giving it an altogether softer look, yet still exuding luxury.
In Maybach form, it looks near flawless, finished in a two-tone red and silver paint scheme that perfectly suits its stature.
Although the combination of the sharp headlights, the large grille, and the lower bumper somewhat reminds us of the Mazda CX-90, it still looks good.
At the rear, the SUV has been imagined with simple LED taillights, an illuminated Mercedes badge, and a chrome strip running across the bumper.
Given that the current GLS will soon be updated for the second time, we’re likely at least three or four years away from an all-new generation hitting the market.
That’s some time away, but if Mercedes’ designers are able to design a flagship SUV that looks as good as this, we figure it’ll be worth the wait.
Illustrations Sugar Design/Instagram
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