Is the Maybach GLS the most excessive SUV?

The facelifted Mercedes-Maybach GLS arrives with updated styling, a mild-hybrid V8, an even more lavish cabin and a new Night Series edition aimed at the luxury SUV elite.

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS, now badged GLS 680, has been updated with fresh styling, more technology and an even greater emphasis on personalisation. If the standard Mercedes GLS already sits near the top of the luxury SUV market, this version is aimed at buyers who expect something even more exclusive.

The facelift brings redesigned headlights, a new grille, revised front and rear bumpers and Maybach’s signature pattern across the lower air intakes. Mercedes has also expanded the range of paint finishes and bespoke options, reflecting the fact that personalisation remains a major selling point for Maybach customers.

Inside, the changes focus on comfort rather than reinvention. A revised dashboard centres on Mercedes’ wide Superscreen display, while illuminated air vents, rose gold instrument graphics and an extensive choice of premium leathers reinforce the sense of occasion. Buyers can also specify one of the largest leather roof liners produced at the company’s Sindelfingen factory, alongside refrigerated storage for champagne bottles and massage functions for all four outer seats, including calf massage.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS price and specs

Power comes from Mercedes’ familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, now paired with a mild-hybrid integrated starter-generator. Mercedes-Maybach quotes around 612hp and 627lb ft of torque, with the electric system adding a further 23hp of boost during acceleration and smoother operation at low speeds. Mercedes points out that this roughly matches the output of its old twelve-cylinder engine, but with quicker response and better efficiency.

The company has yet to confirm performance figures for the updated model, although a sprint to 62mph in well under five seconds would be consistent with the outgoing car. Those figures should be treated as expectations until Mercedes publishes official numbers.

The chassis also receives updates. A dedicated Maybach driving mode prioritises rear-seat comfort, while revised steering, adaptive air suspension and optional active body control aim to keep the substantial SUV composed over poor road surfaces. The suspension system can also use cloud-based data to prepare for changing road conditions ahead. It is the sort of ultra-luxury SUV that competes with the likes of the Range Rover at the top of the market, as well as the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS Night Series

Alongside the standard model, Mercedes is introducing a refreshed Night Series edition.

It features 23-inch forged wheels as standard, dark chrome exterior detailing, black aluminium running boards and exclusive paint finishes. The cabin receives unique black or crystal white leather upholstery, plus open-pore brown walnut trim with herringbone detailing to distinguish it from the regular Maybach GLS.

When does the Mercedes-Maybach GLS go on sale?

Mercedes-Maybach says orders will begin in China before the updated GLS is introduced in the United States and Europe, with US and European order books opening at the end of July. The company has not confirmed UK availability or pricing.

That means British buyers will need to wait a little longer for official figures, although the current Mercedes-Maybach GLS already commands a substantial six-figure price, so few will expect this refreshed version to come cheaply.

For buyers who measure luxury by the number of bespoke options rather than outright performance, the updated Mercedes-Maybach GLS looks set to strengthen its position at the very top of the premium SUV market. It is an exercise in excess, but that has always been the point.