Mercedes-Benz GLS Body Kit Review — Cost & Upgrade
Service Price
$approx. $1,500+
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Mercedes-Benz GLS electric running board body kit: Approx. $1,800-$2,000. Enhances luxury and practicality with Maybach-style design.
Elevating the Mercedes-Benz GLS with a Maybach-Style Body Kit
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is renowned for its performance and luxurious presence, but some owners find the standard fixed side steps, often finished in basic plastic, detract from the vehicle's overall premium aesthetic. This is particularly true for those aspiring to the refined look of the Maybach GLS 600. An electric side step conversion offers a sophisticated solution, seamlessly integrating functionality with high-end design. This review details an installation on a GLS that sought to address these very concerns, aiming to elevate the vehicle's styling to Maybach-like standards.
Before: The Desire for Enhanced Aesthetics
The factory-fitted GLS side steps provide practical assistance for entry and exit. However, their coarse plastic finish lacks the visual refinement expected of a luxury SUV. The transition from the step to the fender cladding often reveals a mismatch in color and texture, especially when compared to the gloss finishes found on competitors like the EQS SUV 580. This subtle inconsistency can diminish the perceived luxury of the vehicle's lower profile.
The Transformation: Electric Side Steps in Three Hours
The installation of electric side steps typically takes around three hours. This process involves removing the original fixed steps, fitting a new frame, and integrating the electric deployment system. The kit used in this case is designed to replicate the genuine Maybach 600 style, achieving an impressive 99% visual similarity to the factory original. Upon completion, the most striking improvement is the enhanced visual harmony of the vehicle's lower body. The painted electric steps flow seamlessly with the fender covers, creating a consistent, high-gloss finish across the entire lower section of the GLS, evoking the understated elegance of a Maybach.
Functionality Meets Luxury: Practicality When Doors Open
The true benefit of electric side steps becomes apparent when the doors are opened. The running boards deploy automatically, featuring a design that subtly widens from the front to the rear doors, offering a thoughtful enhancement for rear-seat passengers. As a product inspired by Maybach's premium offerings, the step area is generously sized. Unlike typical electric steps that might only accommodate the balls of the feet, these provide ample space for the entire foot, ensuring a more stable and comfortable ingress and egress, especially beneficial for taller individuals or those with mobility challenges.
Compatibility and Final Results
These electric side steps are compatible with all new GLS models and also fit GLE models, excluding the Coupe variants. This broad compatibility ensures that a wide range of owners can experience the enhanced Maybach-style luxury. After installation, the electric side steps operate smoothly, retracting cleanly when the doors are closed, contributing to a highly premium appearance. The unified gloss finish along the lower body significantly boosts the GLS's overall luxurious presence, bringing it closer to the Maybach aesthetic. Functionally, the improvement is substantial, making entry and exit considerably easier and adding a touch of limousine-like comfort.
Cost and Maintenance Considerations
The cost for the Mercedes-Benz GLS electric side step conversion, including parts and labor, typically falls in the range of 2.5 million KRW (approximately $1,800 - $2,000 USD). While the initial body kit cost is an investment, the enhanced aesthetics and improved practicality offer significant value. Maintenance is generally straightforward, focusing on keeping the moving parts clean to ensure smooth operation. Regular cleaning of the running boards and checking for any obstructions will help maintain their longevity and functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit cost for a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The electric running board body kit for the Mercedes-Benz GLS reviewed here costs around 2.5 million KRW (approx. $1,800-$2,000 USD). Typical body kit installation costs in the US can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the kit's complexity and material.
Q. How long does body kit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The installation of this electric side step body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLS typically takes about 3 hours. With proper care, these electric running boards are durable, but regular cleaning of the mechanism is recommended to ensure smooth operation.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
A body kit like the Maybach-style electric running boards is most worth it for GLS owners seeking to significantly enhance their vehicle's luxury appearance and improve step-in comfort. The upgrade provides a substantial aesthetic improvement and added practicality, especially for rear passengers.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Installation involves removing the factory side steps, mounting a new frame for the electric system, and connecting the wiring for automatic deployment. The process typically includes fitting the running boards, testing their function, and ensuring a clean integration with the vehicle's body panels.
Q. What is the difference between FRP and polyurethane body kits for a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
While this review focused on an electric running board kit, traditional body kits are often made from Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) or polyurethane. FRP kits are generally lighter and cheaper but can be more brittle, while polyurethane kits are more flexible and impact-resistant, often leading to better durability.
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