Mercedes-BenzMaybach GLS

　　

2023 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS Review

byMichael CantuCorrespondent

　　Michael Cantu has worked in the automotive industry since 2014. He has written over 800 car-related articles and tested and reviewed over 100 vehicles over the course of his career. Michael is a contributor at zzdcar and has also contributed to MotorTrend, Digital Trends and InsideEVs. Michael was featured on a few InsideEVs YouTube channel videos on the topic of electric vehicles. Michael was a MotorTrend Car of the Year judge for 2019 and was a driver in MotorTrend's World's Greatest Drag Races 7 & 8.

　　If you're familiar with the Maybach name, you're likely thinking of an extra-large and superbly luxurious Mercedes S-Class sedan. But what you might not know is that the GLS, Mercedes' largest SUV, has been getting the Maybach treatment since 2021. The Maybach GLS 600 is the brand's most opulent and most expensive SUV. It looks much like the regular GLS but sports unique exterior trim and, of course, the revered Maybach badge. You can also opt for an available two-tone paint job. But what's inside really sets it apart from the regular GLS.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS GLS 600 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$274/mo  for Maybach GLS GLS 600

　　Maybach GLS GLS 600

　　GLS 600 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) (Most Popular) - $170,000 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　The Maybach GLS 600's interior is adorned with the best Mercedes has to offer, including soft Nappa leather that covers most surfaces, high-quality wood trim and outstanding technology. The Maybach SUV also comes standard with impressive features, including heated and ventilated front and rear massaging seats, cupholders that can be heated or cooled, and an interior fragrance system. Maybach also removed the third row to provide more legroom for the rear passengers, who are treated to power-reclining executive-style seats. If that's still not enough, the sumptuous cruiser comes equipped with an adaptive air suspension that's enhanced for ride comfort. The Maybach GLS goes above and beyond the regular GLS, and then some.

　　As amazing as the Maybach GLS 600 is, it's not the only uber-luxurious SUV you should consider. There's the more affordable but still very lavish BMW Alpina XB7 and Bentley's sole SUV, the Bentayga. The Land Rover Range Rover is another compelling option, but make sure you aim for the top-spec Autobiography and SV models. If you need help deciding if the Maybach GLS is the right SUV for you, check out our test team's thorough review in the zzdcar Expert Rating below.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Great

　　8.3

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the Maybach GLS drive? For a vehicle with the size and mass of a small asteroid, the Maybach GLS is a fairly amazing performer. Our test vehicle took only 4.7 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is more than adequate for such a large, luxurious SUV. It feels strong too, with plenty of power on tap no matter the situation. The engine's mild hybrid system improves both performance and efficiency and helps with a smooth power delivery.

　　Stops from 60 mph came in just 102 feet, one of the best results we've seen from any SUV and close to serious performance-car territory. Part of that is due to the Pirelli summer tires equipped on our test vehicle. The steering is light and quick, making the Maybach GLS easy to maneuver through a parking lot, traffic or the occasional mountain pass.

　　

Comfort

9.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Maybach GLS? Mercedes-Benz has a fantastic formula for on-road comfort. The seats are supportive with a ton of adjustability, and the standard front and rear massaging seats help keep you relaxed even after a few hours on the road. The heated and ventilated seats work well, and the automatic climate control quickly evens out cabin temperatures with rear passengers getting their own focused system.

　　There's little intrusion from the outside, with just a bit of road noise on rougher pavement. The ride quality is excellent due to the standard E-Active Body Control suspension. It's smooth and composed, ironing out most road imperfections without feeling floaty.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below