
Mercedes GLS X167 Engines — The Complete UK Guide
Every engine fitted to the third-generation GLS full-size luxury SUV — from the M256 straight-six petrol to the M176 V8, the M177 AMG V8, and the OM656 straight-six diesel that powers the GLS 400 d. Real UK costs, honest reliability data, and the 2023 facelift's engine updates explained. Backed by real UK enquiries in 2025 [PATTERN DATA].
Explore X167 EnginesMercedes GLS X167 Engine Codes — The Complete Database
Every engine fitted to the X167 GLS specifically — including pre-facelift M256/M176 units, the 2023 facelift updates, and the range-topping AMG and Maybach variants.

Overview
Mercedes GLS X167 — Overview
The X167 is the third-generation Mercedes-Benz GLS, the flagship full-size luxury SUV produced since October 2019.
It replaces the X166 GLS and is built on the MHA platform (a variant of the MRA architecture). The engine range spans M256 straight-six petrols with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, M176 V8 petrols in the GLS 580, M177 V8s in the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 600, plus OM656 straight-six diesels. A 2023 facelift brought power increases and updated engines.
Key Facts
Platform
Mercedes MHA (Modular High Architecture)
Predecessor
Mercedes-Benz GLS (X166)
Successor
None (current generation)
Sibling body styles in this generation
None (GLS is a standalone model)
Market Intelligence
The X167 GLS generated UK engine enquiries in 2025 [PATTERN DATA], with the M256 petrol six and OM656 diesel six remaining the most commonly discussed among specialists.
Best & Worst Engines

Thin-Data Summary
“Thin-Data Fallback mode — one paragraph: The X167's most dependable engine is the OM656 2.9-litre straight-six diesel (GLS 400 d, 330 PS) — Mercedes' latest-generation straight-six diesel, offering effortless torque, excellent refinement, and proven durability. The M256 3.0-litre straight-six petrol (GLS 450, 367 PS) is the best petrol option — smooth, refined, and with EQ Boost mild-hybrid assistance adding 22 PS and 250 Nm of torque. The M176 V8 in the GLS 580 (489 PS) offers effortless V8 performance but carries significantly higher running costs. The M177 V8 in the AMG GLS 63 (612 PS) is a masterpiece — epic performance but eye-watering maintenance bills. Avoid any car without documented service history, and be cautious of the V8 engines' cooling systems — the hot-vee design generates significant heat that can affect ancillaries.”
Who it's for:

Mercedes GLS X167 — Ownership Economics
The X167 rule
A £3,500–£6,000 recon on a sub-£30,000 X167 sits at 12–20% of the car's value — viable on most examples. Against a £10,000 engine bill on a GLS 580, the car's value determines the decision — a £50,000 GLS 580 justifies a £6,000–£10,000 recon; a £30,000 example makes it a much harder call. For an AMG GLS 63, a £70,000+ car justifies a £12,000–£18,000 recon. Our 70% Mercedes-Benz threshold is the line — most X167s sit comfortably above it.
Key Takeaways
Which X167 Costs Least To Own?
GLS 350 d (OM656) — proven straight-six diesel, excellent economy, cheapest to maintain.
Which X167 Costs Most To Own?
AMG GLS 63 (M177) — V8 complexity, specialist-only work, eye-watering parts prices.
Which X167 Is Best Value?
GLS 450 (M256.930) — 367 PS straight-six, reliable, refined, without V8 running costs.
Common Problems

X167 Engine Replacement Costs — By Engine and Condition
Core Variants
Core Variants
Diesel Variants
Scope note: All variants listed are X167 GLS only. The GLS is a standalone model with no sibling body styles in this generation. The X167 was launched in October 2019, with a 2023 facelift bringing updated power outputs and styling changes. The Maybach GLS 600 is the ultra-luxury variant.
Market Intelligence
Most Requested E90 Engines (2025)
Most Requested E90 Variants
Average E90 Replacement Cost
Most Common E90 Failures
FAQ

Why UK Mercedes GLS X167 Owners Trust MercedesEngines.uk
Trusted X167 Engine Suppliers
every garage and engine rebuilder in our network is vetted, rated and reviewed by real Mercedes owners, as part of the Engine Finders network. We only work with specialists who understand the X167's MHA platform, 48V systems, and V8 intricacies.
Compare X167 Engine Replacement Companies
see prices, warranty terms and supply & fit options side-by-side before you commit. Whether you need a reconditioned OM656 or a used M177, we show you the real market.
UK Engine Replacement Services for X167
covering every variant from GLS 450 to AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 600, with supply-only or full supply & fit available nationwide through our vetted specialist network.
Find the best Mercedes GLS X167 engine replacement UK drivers rely on. Compare real prices from trusted specialists on EnginesMarket today and get back on the road with confidence.





