Mercedes-Maybach joins SUV crowd with GLS600

MERCEDES-MAYBACH has joined the ranks of top-end brands switching to SUVs with the reveal of the opulent all-new GLS600 flagship SUV, which will land in local Mercedes showrooms in the third quarter of next year.

The niche luxury division has offered a super-luxury S600 limousine based on the S-Class sedan since 2015, however it has now moved with current market trends to include Mercedes’ largest and most luxurious SUV.

While the new-generation GLS – due to arrive in Australia next month – is not short on premium touches, the GLS600 takes things to a different level with either a four- or five-seat layout sure to cosset occupants in just about any weather or road conditions.

The GLS’s third-row seats are gone, and the second row consists of a pair of individual executive seats that are positioned 30mm inward and 120mm rearward when compared to the GLS, which gives occupants extra headroom, legroom, elbow-room and so on.

Both outward rear seats are fully electrically adjustable with a reclining function up to 43.5 degrees, while all four seats feature heating, ventilation and massage.

The four-seat version replaces the middle seat with a centre console divider, which like the seats and dashboard are upholstered in Nappa leather. Various other leather trim options are available.

Wood trim also increases the opulence of the interior, which can be specified with a pinstripe design.

The MBUX infotainment system is projected onto dual 12.3-inch digital screens, while a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.6-inch touchscreens is available as an option. Sound comes courtesy of a 1590W high-end Burmester 3D surround-sound system with 27 speakers and 24 amplifier channels.

Other interior features include a sophisticated air-conditioning system that can measure the interior and exterior temperatures, angle of the sun and air humidity, plus high-end sound deadening and air fragrances with a signature scent for Maybach – white osmanthus blossom with leather and spicy tea.

A number of exterior design elements separate the Maybach from the rest of the GLS range, starting with the grille which features vertical chrome pinstripes, while the lower air intakes feature a chrome mesh design with a unique front bumper trim underneath.

Wheel rims measure either 22 or 23 inches, while ingress and egress is made easier thanks to high-gloss aluminium running boards with anti-slip rubber strips, which are integrated into the side skirts and move down and outwards when doors are opened.

The GLS600 rides on Airmatic air suspension on all four corners with ADS+ adaptive dampers and E-Active Body Control, which can individually control spring and damping forces at each wheel for optimum ride comfort and handling.

A Maybach-specific drive program is included on the GLS600, which focuses on optimising ride comfort for rear passengers.

While previous Maybachs have employed Mercedes’ massive 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, ever-tightening emissions standards means the GLS600 will use the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 found in a raft of other Mercedes models, producing 410kW from 6000-6500rpm and 730Nm from 2500-5000rpm, while an EQ Boost starter/alternator can briefly provide 16kW/250Nm of mild-hybrid assistance.

Driving all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, the massive 2785kg Maybach can sprint from standstill to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 250km/h.

The 48V mild-hybrid system and cylinder deactivation technology contribute to a combined-cycle fuel economy figure of 11.7-12.0 litres per 100km, while CO2 emissions are rated at 266-273 grams per kilometre.

A full suite of active safety technologies are included, as befitting a model at this top end of the market.

Pricing will be revealed closer to the GLS600’s launch next year, however would-be customers can safely assume the 600 will be the most expensive variant in the GLS line-up.