Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 Body Kit Upgrade Review

Transform Your Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 with a Maybach Body Kit

Owners of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 are increasingly looking to update their vehicle's exterior to match the styling of newer models. As the GLS has undergone significant design and system changes with its facelift, there's a growing demand from previous model owners to modernize their car's appearance. Installing a new Maybach body kit can effectively give an older GLS a contemporary edge. This review explores how such an upgrade can significantly enhance the vehicle's presence, drawing from actual installation examples.

What's Included in a Maybach Body Kit?

A comprehensive Maybach body kit typically includes essential exterior components that redefine the vehicle's look. The standard package features Maybach-specific front and rear bumpers, a Maybach grille, a hood star emblem, Maybach logos on the trunk, and C-pillar emblems. Complementing these are B-pillar chrome moldings that complete the side profile.

Beyond the core components, owners can opt for additional upgrades such as Maybach-specific wheels, electric side steps, and interior trim enhancements. This modular approach allows for a customized transformation tailored to individual budgets and aesthetic preferences, enabling owners to upgrade incrementally.

Redefining the Front: Maybach Grille and Air Ducts

The most striking change is often to the front fascia. The new Maybach grille, featuring the distinctive Maybach insignia, offers a refined and sophisticated design compared to older versions. The hood star emblem is replaced with the latest genuine Mercedes-Benz part, and the lower air ducts are adorned with clear Maybach logos.

While the increased number of logos might initially seem bold, they integrate harmoniously with the vehicle's overall design over time. The scarcity of older Maybach body kit installations in favor of the newer design clearly indicates the current trend and desirability of this upgrade.

Wheel Upgrades: Timing is Key for 23-Inch Wheels

The 2020 GLS 580 comes standard with 22-inch wheels. This particular upgrade involved moving to 23-inch wheels, which was conveniently timed with the need for new tires.

Upgrading to 23-inch wheels necessitates a tire replacement. Sourcing 23-inch tires can be challenging domestically, which is why some owners opt for the more readily available 22-inch size. However, specialized shops can source 23-inch tires within approximately two weeks at more competitive prices than premium international brands. Unlike large-scale importers of brands like Continental or Pirelli, which may struggle with rapid fulfillment, these specialized providers offer both quick supply and cost-effectiveness.

The installation of 23-inch wheels and tires dramatically alters the vehicle's stance, lowering its center of gravity and enhancing stability.

Completing the Rear: New Tail Lights

While the rear bumper shares a similar basic form between the new and old GLS models, the Maybach version features the updated Maybach lettering. The most significant visual enhancement at the rear is the replacement with new tail lights.

The tail lights represent one of the most distinct exterior differences between the old and new GLS generations. Swapping to the latest genuine GLS tail lights ensures the rear profile is completely modernized. This tail light upgrade is popular even without a full Maybach body kit installation and can be performed as a standalone modification.

Side Profile Details: B-Pillar Molding and Side Steps

The B-pillar chrome molding is typically a complimentary aftermarket part, but in this specific installation, genuine Mercedes-Benz chrome B-pillar moldings were applied for a superior finish.

Installation process:

1. Component Preparation: All new body kit components (bumpers, grille, emblems, moldings) are inspected and prepared for fitment.
2. Front and Rear Bumper Replacement: The original bumpers are carefully removed, and the new Maybach-specific bumpers are installed, ensuring all mounting points align correctly.
3. Grille and Emblem Installation: The Maybach grille and hood star are fitted, followed by the application of all Maybach emblems and logos on the trunk and C-pillars.
4. B-Pillar Molding and Side Step Fitment: Chrome B-pillar moldings are attached, and if included, electric side steps are wired and mounted.
5. Tail Light Upgrade: The original tail lights are removed and replaced with the new generation units.
6. Final Inspection: All parts are checked for proper fit, finish, and function, ensuring a seamless transformation.

This comprehensive body kit upgrade transforms the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580, giving it the sophisticated and modern appearance of the latest Maybach models. The attention to detail, from the grille and bumpers to the wheels and tail lights, creates a cohesive and impressive aesthetic enhancement.