Mercedes-Maybach gives GLS flagship a more luxurious makeover

Mercedes-Maybach has revealed a comprehensively updated version of its flagship GLS SUV, bringing more power, enhanced luxury and new digital technology to the ultra-premium model.

The refreshed Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 builds on the luxury SUV’s formula with revised styling, a more refined cabin and an upgraded electrified V8 powertrain. Orders have already opened in China, with Europe and the United States to follow later this year. Other markets, including New Zealand, are expected to be confirmed at a later date. 

The exterior receives a redesigned Maybach-specific grille with an illuminated surround and, for the first time, illuminated MAYBACH lettering integrated into the grille frame. Selected markets will also receive an illuminated bonnet-mounted Mercedes-Benz star.

New rose-gold accents feature within the Digital Light headlights, while redesigned tail-lights, fresh paint finishes and new 22- and 23-inch wheel designs further distinguish the updated model. Another new feature is the floating centre caps on the forged wheels, which remain upright as the wheels rotate. 

Inside, Mercedes-Maybach has focused on comfort. Buyers can now specify new beech brown/macchiato beige Nappa leather upholstery, additional wood and fabric trim options, and enhanced massage seats.

Rear passengers gain a new calf massage function, while the Burmester 3D Surround Sound system has been upgraded with 15 speakers and a more powerful 710-watt amplifier. Acoustic insulation has also been significantly improved to further reduce engine, road and wind noise. 

The cabin also adopts Mercedes-Benz’s latest MB.OS operating system and MBUX Superscreen. The three-display setup incorporates generative AI through ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing Search and Google Gemini, while over-the-air updates will continue adding new features throughout the vehicle’s life. Rear-seat occupants receive twin 11.6-inch entertainment displays and redesigned touchscreen remote controls. 

Under the bonnet is an updated 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Total outputs rise to 450kW plus a 17kW boost function, alongside 850Nm of torque. Mercedes-Maybach says the revised engine responds more quickly, delivers smoother power and achieves refinement comparable with its previous V12-powered models. 

Ride quality has also been enhanced through revised steering and new predictive AIRMATIC air suspension, which uses cloud-based road information to prepare for upcoming surface changes. Optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL continues to scan the road up to 1,000 times per second and can lean the vehicle into corners by up to three degrees to reduce lateral forces on occupants. 

Mercedes-Benz has also expanded the SUV’s driver assistance technology. The latest MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO introduces urban point-to-point assisted driving in selected markets, combining navigation and SAE Level 2 driver assistance to help guide the vehicle through city traffic while still requiring driver supervision. Enhanced automated parking can now identify diagonal spaces and reverse along the previous 150 metres of its path. 

The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS will continue to be hand-finished at Mercedes-Benz’s Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, where specialist technicians complete the model’s bespoke interior before final assembly.