Overview
If you’re winning the game of capitalism then an ultra-luxurious SUV like the 2024 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 might just appear on your new-car shopping list in place of models that are merely luxurious, like the Benz-branded GLS on which the Maybach is based. The difference between the two can be summed up with one word: opulence. Every inch of the GLS600’s interior has been optimized for comfort and richness. The GLS’s third row has been ditched here in favor of a four-seat layout with miles of legroom for rear-seat passengers. This SUV is meant for chauffeur duty because you’re almost certainly far too busy running your empire to distract yourself with driving. The GLS600 is priced for exclusivity too, so you’re unlikely to suffer something as gauche as pulling up behind another one at the valet stand, unless, of course, you’ve purchased a matching set. After all, if you can afford one GLS600, it’s likely a second one isn’t too much the budget.
What’s New for 2024?
The GLS-class’s most upscale variant gets a few styling enhancements for 2024 that increase its hyper-beast appeal. The grille has been reworked slightly and the front air inlets on the bumper now carry a Maybach logo motif. A new 23-inch wheel design is available and new puddle lights project Maybach logos onto the ground to beckon passengers into the cabin when the doors are opened. Updated quilted leather upholstery covers the SUV’s four sumptuous bucket seats and is available in two new dual-tone color schemes: Crystal White-and-Silver Gray Pearl or Mahogany Brown-and-Macchiato Beige.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
If you’re in the market for a high-dollar luxury SUV, you’re hardly going to listen to the likes of us when deciding which options to order. Plus, Mercedes-Maybach is making most things standard, including a semi-autonomous driving mode, nappa leather upholstery, and handsome interior and exterior trimmings. We’d suggest perusing the numerous personalization options, though, to really make the GLS600 your own.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The GLS600’s twin-turbocharged V-8 makes 550 horsepower and can motivate the big luxury SUV from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to Mercedes-Maybach. The engine is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system that gives a little extra shove right from the start. If that’s not fast enough for you, check out the Mercedes-AMG GLS63, which offers a 603-hp version of this powertrain and leapt to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds at our test track. During our initial test drive, we came away impressed with both its silky-smooth ride quality and its confident handling. An air suspension is standard, and it features a Maybach mode that all but erases bumps in the road.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA has given the GLS600 fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. Those aren’t particularly efficient estimates, but we’re certain the big spenders who will be cross-shopping the GLS600 against the likes of the Bentley Bentayga and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan won’t be too concerned with fuel efficiency. When we get a chance to test the GLS600, we’ll take it on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route and update this story with the results. For more information about the GLS-class’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
While the regular Benz-branded GLS-class SUV is a three-row affair, the Maybach GLS600 offers just two rows, both of which offer heat and massage functions. The rear seats are the place to be; with acres of legroom and two power-adjustable recliner seats, riding in the back is akin to traveling in the fanciest first-class airline cabins. A three-across bench is also offered, but c’mon, the executive treatment is what this SUV is all about. Nappa leather covers the dash, door panels, and seats, while real wood trim with a handsome pinstripe adds a touch of class. A fragrance diffuser helps occupants create the sensory oasis they deserve after a hard day of being filthy rich. Cargo capacity isn’t as generous here as it is in the regular GLS-class since the rear seats are fixed and don’t fold to accommodate larger items. Mercedes-Maybach says there’s still about 19 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and will offer a handsome set of custom-fitted luggage.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Dual 12.3-inch infotainment displays utilize Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX software interface and rear-seat passengers get two 11.6-inch displays that can play movies or control the sound system. A Burmester audio system is also available and features an incredible 27 speakers.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A suite of high-tech driver-assistance features is standard to give your chauffeur a hand on long trips. For more information about the GLS600’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes-Maybach’s warranty coverage is fairly basic, but it offers coverage for up to a year longer than the policies that come with new Bentleys. There’s no complimentary scheduled maintenance included in the sale, but oil changes and tire rotations are another expense we expect the owners of such an expensive SUV will find affordable when paying for them on their own.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 4- or 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
BASE PRICE
$161,550
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
243 in3, 3982 cm3
Power
550 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
538 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 123.4 in
Length: 204.9 in
Width: 79.9 in
Height: 72.4 in
Passenger volume: 116 ft3
Cargo volume: 14 ft3
Curb weight (C/D est): 6100 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.1 sec
100 mph: 9.4 sec
1/4 mile: 12.5 sec
Top speed: 130 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 15/19/16 mpg
