Mercedes-Maybach GLS: Luxury SUV Revealed In China

Stuttgart/Guangzhou. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC (combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 273‑266 g/km)^[1] represents a new form of luxury in the SUV segment. It extends the portfolio of the Mercedes-Maybach brand by combining the body design and technical basis of the GLS with the luxury of a top-class saloon car.

Its spacious interior with the highest-grade materials and extremely effective noise insulation creates a stylish, cocoon-like feel-good atmosphere. From their pleasantly elevated seating position, thanks to electrically operated roller sun blinds on the two rear side windows, the passengers can decide for themselves how much of their surroundings they want to see. The AIRMATIC suspension included as standard or the optional, fully-active suspension with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL effectively keep the road bumps at bay. For the first time there is a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear. Access and egress are also highly convenient: when the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly, and an illuminated running board quickly and silently emerges on the access or egress side. The running boards are made of anodised aluminium. The V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, which can develop 410 kW (558 hp) and 730 Nm of torque, is an engine variant developed exclusively for Maybach and moves the car discreetly and powerfully. The engine is combined with the 48-volt system EQ Boost. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC will enter the market in the second half of 2020.

The Mercedes-Benz star surmounts the bonnet in the classic way, while the fine, vertical chrome struts of the Maybach radiator grille create a pinstripe effect. Effective chrome highlights around the side windows, and the chrome inserts in the side sill panels, lend dignity and elegance to the profile. The 22 or 23-inch wheels were developed exclusively for this model, with the 23-inch version echoing the pinstripe theme. The tailpipe trim elements with a small cross rib emphasise the model's identity as a Mercedes-Maybach. The same applies to the brand emblem, which is positioned at various points such as on the D-pillar. As a special, Maybach-specific feature, two-tone paintwork is planned in eight different, elegant colour combinations.

Another eye-catching feature of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS are the electrically extending running boards. They make accessing and leaving the high seating position both convenient and safe. With surfaces of anodised aluminium laced with black rubber strips, illuminated in the dark and particularly wide in the area of the rear doors, they ensure a very special visual appeal. When in their retracted state, the running boards are concealed behind the side sill panels. If a rear door is opened, the running board on the side concerned automatically swings into position in around one second. This default setting can be changed using a special menu in the MBUX infotainment system. In the interests of spaciousness in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS is only available with two seat rows.

The equipment features: luxury, leather and reclining seats

The appointments of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC are already decidedly luxurious as standard. The two outer rear seats can be electrically converted into reclining seats. Padded areas and the dashboard are finished in fine nappa leather as standard, with a range of further cushions and leather interior linings available on request. An electrically opening panoramic sliding/tilting sunroof with an opaque roller blind is standard equipment, as are climatised massage seats. Obtainable on special request, the fixed centre console transforms the car into a spacious four-seater whose rear is just as suitable for working as for relaxing. This console is available with extending, folding tables, even a refrigerator with space for champagne bottles. Suitable silver champagne flutes for this are available from the accessories range.

A dedicated fragrance was developed for the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS for active fragrancing as part of the optional AIR-BALANCE package: the white osmanthus blossom, floral and light, is rounded off by a gentle leather note and spicy tea.

From the power transfer and suspension to the headlamp technology, the technical systems of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS at least correspond to the most comfortable equipment level of the technically related Mercedes-Benz SUVs. Starting from this basis, added value that is typically Maybach is often a further result. For example, noise insulation in the interior has been raised to an even higher level by installing a rigid partition and a fixed parcel shelf behind the rear seats, separating the interior from the luggage compartment. A separate air conditioner for the rear seats is standard, and features additional outlets and heater boosters with which temperature control is even faster and draught-free. There is a dedicated Maybach drive program for the suspension and powertrain; its settings offer rear seat passengers in particular the ultimate in ride comfort.

With the standard MBUX Rear Tablet in the centre console or the armrest between the rear seats, the extensive comfort and entertainment functions can also be intuitively controlled from the rear seats. The integration of digital devices used by passengers comprises all of the common standards.

Selected technical data

Successful sub-brand: Mercedes-Maybach

The Mercedes-Maybach brand stands for exclusive luxury, maximum comfort and state-of-the-art technology in automotive engineering, services and accessories. It is seen as a trailblazer in defining style and status. The maxim of its name-giver Wilhelm Maybach was to create the very best from the very best. In 2014 Mercedes-Maybach was established as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz as part of a brand realignment. Since its market launch in 2015, more than 45,000 examples of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class have been delivered worldwide. In 2018 more Mercedes-Maybach S-Class cars were sold than ever before: one in seven S-Class models sold was a Maybach.

^[1]Figures for fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

^[2] Figures for fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and were determined by the technical service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS combines the body form and superior, robust technical basis provided by the GLS, the S-Class among SUVs, with all the technical and material luxury of a top-class saloon car. It stylishly yet emphatically shows its special standing among the Mercedes-Benz SUVs. The Mercedes-Maybach bears the Mercedes star in the traditional way, upright on the bonnet. Where the Mercedes-Benz GLS sports a large star between two horizontal louvres in the radiator grille, the Mercedes-Maybach grille has a fine, elegant line of vertical chrome pinstripes as a motif. They widen into small oar-blades at the upper edge, blending into the chrome frame bearing the lettering MAYBACH at its top centre.

"The Mercedes-Maybach brand represents 'Ultimate Luxury' in its most contemporary, purest form", says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer at Daimler AG. "The brand's style is embodied in sublime beauty, supreme aesthetics and elegance. In order to define the luxury of the future, we are taking the concept of Sensual Purity to the next level and transforming ourselves from a premium manufacturer to the world's leading design brand."

The headlamps with MULTIBEAM LED technology as standard present the entire front lighting as if in jewellery showcases. Below the radiator grille, the front apron has a wide air inlet that discreetly suggests the power of the V8 engine with a finely woven grille in high-grade chrome. On the left and right of the radiator grille, this grille has finely curved trim strips for additional embellishment, and it tapers to form an elegant, slim cross-piece emphasising the horizontal line between the radiator grille and the registration plate bracket. Below the chrome grille the bumper has a high-gloss black paint finish and a robust, high-gloss chrome underguard indicating the vehicle's considerably refined SUV character.

The side view of the car likewise shows a refined reinterpretation of the SUV genes. The robust chrome surrounds of the side windows are subdivided by the chrome-plated B-pillar facings. This embellishing feature is a fixed part of the Mercedes-Maybach bumper signature, and externally emphasises the length of the rear seating area. The black-painted side sill panels with chrome inserts and the strut-mounted roof rails, all typical SUV features, have also been made into embellishing features with their high-gloss finish and striking chrome highlights. On the D-pillar, an elegant Mercedes-Maybach badge underlines the high quality and great attention to detail. In the dark, a Mercedes-Maybach emblem projected onto the ground from the exterior mirrors is part of the welcome light show when opening the vehicle.

Illuminated ramp: the extending running boards ensure a dynamic entry experience

The side sill panels in particular are more than just an embellishment. As standard they include a running board that automatically swings out for passengers to enter and leave the vehicle. Made from high-gloss aluminium with anti-slip rubber strips, the more than two-metre long running boards are a USP of the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS. They not only allow Mercedes-Maybach GLS drivers and passengers convenient access and egress, but also ensure an incomparable spectacle each time (see next chapter for details).

The large wheels have a diameter of 825 millimetres, while the rims measure 22 or 23 inches in diameter. Their multi-spoke design was conceived exclusively for the Mercedes-Maybach. The design of the 23-inch wheels echoes the pinstripe motif of the radiator grille. The slim, filigree spokes blend into the rim flange as small oar-blades, like the louvres of the radiator grille. The standard 22-inch wheels are made of die-cast aluminium painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, while the 23-inch wheels are made of forged, polished aluminium. The elegant hub covers are made of high-quality metal, and bear a Mercedes star surrounded by "Maybach" lettering on each side. The large, flush-mounted wheels completely fill the wheel arches. The SUV-specific wheel arch flares are painted in the vehicle colour.

Striking and elegant embellishments as design features are continued at the rear of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. Below the rear window, to the left and right of the Mercedes star, the car shows its model designation in a Mercedes-Maybach specific script. Below this a chrome facing extends across the entire width of the car, from the outer edge of the first rear light to its counterpart on the other side. A second trim strip is fitted at the height of the loading sill, and the rear reflectors are embedded in the broad ends of the reflectors like gemstones. The lower edge of the rear apron is painted in high-gloss black, and carries a robust, high-gloss chrome underguard that encloses the two large, rectangular tailpipe trim elements. Between them a characteristic, horizontal connecting piece provides a further, typical Mercedes-Maybach design feature.

Two-tone paint finishes are optionally available, and these underline the balanced proportions of the body. A total of eight combinations are planned, the colour named first being that of the lower section: cavansite blue/iridium silver; designo diamond white bright/obsidian black; iridium silver/designo diamond white bright; iridium silver/selenite grey; obsidian black/kalahari gold; obsidian black/patagonia red; obsidian black/rubellite red; emerald green/mojave silver. These paint finishes are rendered particularly elegant by the fluid course of the separating lines, where a fine pinstripe in the one colour merges into the body of the other colour along the vehicle's beltline. This fine line once again echoes the pinstripe motif.

The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach uses the generous dimensions of the GLS to offer drivers and passengers comfortable seating on all four or five seats. It is conceived as a feel-good zone where the driver and passengers are able to use their time as they wish in extraordinary comfort. Especially the Executive Rear can be used both as an office and as a private relaxation zone. The integration of digital devices plays an important role in every seat. High-resolution displays with brilliant graphics and touchscreens for controlling the extensive features further enhance the luxurious ambience. The Mercedes-Maybach user can perfectly integrate his or her digital environment into the car, whether as a self-driver or being chauffeured.

The character of the interior is particularly reflected in the high-grade materials, which are fitted and finished with great care and a high level of craftsmanship. The generosity and luxury of the Mercedes-Maybach are reflected for example in the nappa leather lined dashboard and the horizontal, chrome-look louvres of the air vents. The latter make a discreet reference to typical Mercedes-Maybach details from the exterior design, e.g. the pinstripe decor of the radiator grille or the horizontal connecting piece of the tailpipe trim elements. Alongside other options, two decors are available for the wood trim elements that echo the pinstripe motif (see Under the Microscope).

The central element in the dashboard's design is an impressively sized screen unit embedded in an energetic, distinctively styled and fully leather-lined instrument panel. The instrument panel flows into the door panels, and the integral trim element likewise extends into the doors. At the same time, it creates the impression that the upper cockpit section is floating. The instrument cluster and media display (2 x 12.3-inch as standard) are housed behind a shared continuous glass surface to form a large free-standing screen.

When the ignition is switched on, the passengers are welcomed on all screens by an animation with Maybach lettering and an exclusive colour combination. There is then a choice of different display styles such as Sport, Progressive or Discreet, which contain different numbers of displays and adjust the ambience to suit the current mood. An emotive presentation with brilliant graphics underlines the comprehensibility of the intuitive control structure. One unique feature of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is its learning capability thanks to artificial intelligence. A further display style has been designed exclusively for the Mercedes‑Maybach – Maybach Classic. In this case the overall mood is darkened to deep blue. Figures, needles and bezels are presented in rosé gold. The virtual glazing of the tubes is discreetly engraved.

The instrument cluster is divided into three separately selectable display zones – the two dial instruments and the central display field positioned between them. All three zones can be intuitively configured using the left touch control button in the steering wheel, allowing a very high degree of individualisation. The driver can individually combine three functions and displays that are important for his or her route and driving style.

The multifunction steering wheel of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS with its rim in nappa leather or optionally wood is pleasant to the touch, matches the upholstery and trim and is heatable on request. The boss with the driver airbag is leather-covered to match. The left and right spokes have control arrays with touch buttons, and Maybach lettering on the clasp. There is a touchpad in the centre console as a further means of controlling many vehicle functions. The prominent, raised centre console creates a robust contrast with the flee-floating appearance of the dashboard. The console carries two robust, leather-covered grab handles as a gentle reminder of the car's SUV character. It also features an elegant handrest with the exclusive Maybach emblem.

Ambience from the yachting world and rosé gold as a symbolic Mercedes-Maybach colour

The high-gloss or open-pore wood surfaces of the trim elements, plus the upholstery in nappa magma grey/black or nappa mahogany brown/macchiato beige as standard ensure a very high perceived value. The same colour combinations are also available for the optional designo Leather package. For this a lighter upholstery colour in crystal white/silver grey pearl will become available as an alternative soon after market launch, awakening associations with interior design in luxury yacht-building and thereby underlining the high quality of the selected materials. One typical Mercedes‑Maybach detail is the colour rosé gold for the piping on the white leather.

Another feature exhibiting a high level of craftsmanship are the multiple box pleats along the centreline of the seat upholstery. The leather is indented at the centre, and the two halves on the sides are folded in to face each other and form two padded pockets opposing each other across the indentation. The two pockets are sewn together at the top and bottom. The result is a smooth, stretched seat surface that can adapt itself to the contours of the back and is taut where the seat is supposed to give way less. The box pleat motif is repeated in the cushions accompanying the Leather package, where it is cleverly emphasised: the box pleat on the cushion covers allows a view of a sewn-in contrasting strip in the rosé gold colour tone of the piping.

Wood trim elements with Mercedes-Maybach emblem matching the remaining decor are attached to the backrests of the front seats as standard, additionally enhancing the ambience in the rear. On request the screens for the MBUX Rear Seat Entertainment system can also be installed on the front seat backrests. Via the Maybach accessories range, suitable pre-installation kits for the installation or carriage of mobile computers of different formats are also available.

The in-door speakers of the Burmester^® surround sound system are inset into the wood trim behind metal meshes. High-quality chromework and Mercedes-Maybach badges in the interior create further highlights. A stimulating contrast is created by the traditional materials, their craftsman-like finish and the modern high-tech appointments of the Mercedes-Maybach.

Luxury also means using the latest styling methods

The LED optical fibres of the standard ambient lighting with 64 colours are inset into the door panels beneath the trim elements. They rise to the parcel shelf from the rear doors as "flowing lines", and elegantly envelop the seats. In the middle of the rear seat unit they then continue to the sides of the comfort centre armrest of the five-seater, or the rear centre console of the four-seater variant. They also surround the MBUX Rear Tablet, which allows the comfort features for the rear to be operated from there. Exclusively, and for the first time in the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, the ambient lighting also includes optical fibres in the roof liner, on the left and right sides of the panoramic sliding/tilting roof, which especially emphasises the effect of the roof aperture at night.

The large panoramic sliding/tilting roof allows a great deal of light into the interior, as well as fresh air when required. Its electrically operated roller blind is completely opaque and allows privacy for the rear passengers, just like the electrically operated blinds on the rear side windows. Passengers will also find temperature-controlled cup holders in the extended centre console.

In the four-seater variant, the continuous centre console has a lockable closure whose wood decor echoes the waterfall decor of the boot division. Behind it is a stowage compartment, or if preferred a large, refrigerated compartment. This can accommodate three 0.75-litre champagne bottles, for example. Below the lockable closure there is an optionally heatable armrest in nappa leather. In front of it is the MBUX Rear Tablet with a 7-inch screen diagonal for the control of all comfort features. The MBUX Rear Tablet can be removed from its charger/holder for convenience of use. The holder is located in the folding lid of the illuminated stowage compartment, which can also be optionally equipped with a 115/230 V socket or folding tables. In front of it there is space for an optional Wireless Mobile Interface, which can be optionally equipped with a Bluetooth^® receiver for discreet conversations.

Between the rear seat footwells, the continuous centre console has a wood trim element with a sliding cover which reveals temperature-controlled cup holders and a stowage compartment. Optionally this space can also be used to accommodate the silver champagne flutes available as Mercedes-Maybach Genuine Accessories, where a fixed space is provided in the lid of the refrigerator compartment.