The Mercedes-Benz GLS is ‘the S-Class of SUVs’ but if you want the Maybach of SUVs, you’re in luck because the Mercedes-Maybach GLS has launched in India, with a base price of Rs 2.43 crore. It isn’t what you would call affordable but with plenty of chrome on the outside, a four-litre twin-turbo V8 under the hood that produces 550bhp and 730Nm, and what could only be referred to as thrones in the second row, the Maybach GLS is one of the most luxurious SUVs money can buy.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS Exterior
The exterior of the Maybach GLS is rather similar to the standard GLS, as you would expect, but with China being the most important market for it, there is a lot of bling to set it apart. The vertical louvres of the grille are classically Maybach, there are also bigger 22-inch alloy wheels as standard (23-inch optional) and the vents on the lower half of the front-end are also finished in chrome. There are also plenty of chrome details all around and an optional two-tone paint scheme which, in our opinion, is a must if you’re splurging on a Maybach. Other details include the standard Multibeam LED headlights and running boards which electronically extend out and are illuminated to help you climb inside.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS Interior
On the inside is where most of the changes to the Maybach are. Sure, the twin 12.3-inch screens remain identical to the standard GLS (albeit with Maybach logos), but the rear seats are actually placed 120mm further back to give you plenty more legroom, and the third row is removed entirely. The second row can be had with either two or three seats and you can also get a recline and massage function for the second row, plus there are also calf rests and four-zone climate control. The rear is the best place to be, so Mercedes has also given a tablet for rear seat passengers to control various functions and optional high-res screens mounted on the backrests of the first row. As if the cabin didn’t already feel large enough, there is also a huge panoramic sunroof to truly elevate the experience and electric roller blinds for the windows in case you want to shut out the outside world. Speaking of which, there is also a Burmester 3D sound-system which should also help. Like we said, leather covers pretty much every surface of the interior and there are many more colour options available for that leather. Speaking of options, you can also get a refrigerator and the E-Active Body Control active suspension that we have also seen on the GLE.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS Price and Rivals
Prices for the Mercedes-Maybach GLS start at Rs 2.43 crore and you can be assured that the options list will take that sticker price significantly higher. Mercedes has confirmed that the first lot of around 50 Maybach GLS’ have already been sold out while prospective buyers can configure their Maybach GLS now and expect deliveries early next year. In terms of rivals, the Maybach GLS 600 goes up against luxury SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga and the Range Rover, although it is significantly more affordable than the former and possibly more luxurious in the rear when compared to the latter.