Mercedes is back with another Maybach that offers a greater level of luxury than the donor Benz — plus a couple of party tricks.
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre petrol V8 that delivers 410kW of power and 730Nm of torque, boosted by an electric motor that adds 16kW and 250Nm.
A noteworthy feature of the highfalutin SUV are the powered running boards that extend automatically to make getting in and out of the beast easier.
Finished in anodised aluminium, with black rubber anti-slip strips, they are illuminated at night and particularly wide in the vicinity of the rear doors.
When retracted, the running boards remain concealed behind the side sill panels.
If a rear door is opened, the running board on that side automatically swings into position — a process that takes about a second.
This default setting can be changed using a special menu in the MBUX infotainment system.
And if you like the sound of these welcome mats, you’ll love the twin, ritzy rear reclining ottomans and optional smellorama for want of a better description.
It was developed for the Mercedes‑Maybach to provide “active fragrancing” as part of the optional AIR BALANCE package.
Floral and light White osmanthus blossom is rounded off by a gentle leather note and spicy tea.
Benz reckons the wagon, limited to two rows of seats to retain a luxurious amount of interior space, represents a new form of luxury in the SUV segment.
More particularly it’s designed to compete with the likes of high-end SUVs such as the Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Range Rover SV Autobiography.
It extends the portfolio of the Mercedes-Maybach brand by combining the practicality of SUV design with the luxury of a top-class saloon.
Highest-grade materials are employed to create extremely effective noise insulation creating a stylish, cocoon-like feel.
Power operated roller sun blinds for the two rear side windows, allow passengers to decide how much of their surroundings they prefer to see from their pleasantly elevated seating position.
AIRMATIC air suspension is standard or there’s the optional, fully-active suspension with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL to keep the bumps at bay.
For the first time there is also a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear.
With a three-pointed star on the the bonnet, the fine, vertical chrome struts of the Maybach grille create a pinstripe effect.
Chrome highlights around the side windows, and 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.
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 available in eight different, elegant colour combinations.
No word on price but the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is expected to enter the market in the second half of 2020.
Looks a bit BMWesque if you ask us . . .
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