Mercedes-Benz GLS Body Kit & Aero Parts Review

Elevating the Mercedes-Benz GLS400d X167 with a Maybach Body Kit

The Mercedes-Benz GLS series stands as a pinnacle of full-size luxury SUVs, boasting impressive dimensions and a spacious interior. The X167 generation GLS400d, in particular, features a highly refined design from the factory. However, a growing number of owners are opting to enhance their vehicles with a Maybach-style body kit, specifically mimicking the GLS600. This upgrade, incorporating the distinctive Maybach grille, bumpers, and subtle design elements, dramatically elevates the vehicle's luxurious aura. This guide details a real-world conversion of a GLS400d to a Maybach aesthetic, outlining the necessary modifications and key considerations.

Key Visual Transformations with the Maybach Body Kit

The Maybach body kit primarily consists of a new front grille, front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper. For a striking visual impact, a two-tone paint scheme is often employed, further enhanced by a complementary roof wrap. Owners can choose between the traditional Mercedes-Benz star emblem or a Maybach emblem for the hood, with no cost difference between the options.

The front license plate bracket is painted to match the vehicle's body color. It's important to note that this bracket is not typically included with the body kit itself and must be sourced separately. The side skirts are installed in conjunction with new electric side steps. As the lower sections of the front and rear bumpers are finished in black for a cohesive look, the side skirts are also painted black to maintain this aesthetic continuity.

The rear bumper is a complete replacement, featuring a two-tone finish on the lower section. While Maybach or GLS600 logos are often applied as a complimentary service using aftermarket parts, opting for genuine Mercedes-Benz logos will incur additional costs.

Wheel Upgrades and Finishing Touches

To perfectly complement the Maybach body kit, upgrading to 22-inch or 23-inch wheels is almost essential, as 21-inch wheels can appear somewhat undersized. However, the availability and cost of 23-inch tires in certain markets should be considered. In this particular build, 22-inch wheels were chosen for their balance of availability and value. Remember that a wheel size upgrade necessitates a tire replacement, adding to the overall expense.

The exhaust tips are fitted with Maybach's signature horizontal bars. The C-pillar emblem is a genuine Mercedes-Benz part, adding a touch of authenticity. The B-pillar emblem is typically an aftermarket, adhesive-backed piece that offers a standard level of quality. For a more refined finish, replacing this with an original B-pillar cover is recommended.

Budgeting for Your GLS Maybach Body Kit Conversion

The total cost for a GLS Maybach body kit conversion varies significantly based on several factors beyond the kit itself, including paintwork, wheel upgrades, interior modifications, and the cost of miscellaneous parts.

Understanding the Cost Breakdown

The body kit components themselves generally range from approximately ₩3,000,000 to ₩4,000,000, depending on the specific kit and its grade. Adding a full paint job, including the two-tone effect, can cost an additional ₩2,000,000 to ₩3,000,000. A wheel upgrade to 22 or 23 inches typically adds another ₩1,500,000 to ₩2,500,000. If interior enhancements, such as a Maybach steering wheel or piano black trim, are included, the total project cost can easily exceed ₩10,000,000. For an accurate quote tailored to your specific vehicle condition, desired scope of work, and location, direct consultation with a specialized workshop is highly recommended.

Installation Process:

1. Disassembly: Carefully remove the original front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and any existing side steps.
2. Body Kit Fitting: Mount the new Maybach-style front grille, front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper. Ensure all panels align correctly.
3. Painting and Finishing: Apply the chosen paint scheme (including two-tone effects) to the new body kit components. Paint the license plate bracket and side skirts as needed.
4. Emblem and Detail Application: Install Maybach or Mercedes-Benz emblems, exhaust tip covers, and C/B-pillar emblems.
5. Wheel and Tire Upgrade: If opting for larger wheels, install the new wheels and corresponding tires.