2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS680 Review: Luxury SUV Pricing, Specs, and Upgrades
When a discerning buyer drops six figures on a high-end luxury vehicle, they usually lean toward an iconic nameplate like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The legendary G-Wagen continues to shatter expectations, boasting a 23-percent surge in global sales up to 49,700 units. While the ultra-opulent Mercedes-Maybach GLS may not carry the same undeniable cultural street clout as its boxy sibling, Stuttgart is rolling out a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh to turn heads. The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS680 arrives with bolder styling, sharper performance capabilities, and an array of opulent cabin enhancements designed to capture the attention of status-conscious motorists.
Bold Exterior Design and High-End Brightwork
Much like the updated Maybach S-Class sedan, this flagship utility vehicle demands a stronger visual presence than its predecessor. A striking new illuminated border frames the massive radiator grille, complemented by an etched Maybach script that glows from within. For buyers seeking maximum prestige, the standing Mercedes three-pointed star can also be illuminated as an optional extra.
The front end features enormous headlamp lenses flashing rose-gold accents reminiscent of designer sunglasses, complete with integrated star design motifs. Lower air intakes showcase a double-M Maybach pattern finished in brilliant chrome, matching the brightwork along the refreshed bumper underguard. Skipping the standard 20- or 22-inch wheels in favor of the optional 23-inch Maybach forged wheels is practically mandatory; their weighted center caps on ball bearings ensure the iconic Mercedes star remains standing upright at all speeds.
Along the profile, anodized aluminum running boards deploy in under a second, beautifully illuminated by a crisp LED strip. A revised tailgate ties the rear architecture together, featuring updated taillight clusters packed with three-dimensional crimson star graphics. Mercedes has also expanded its paint palette, notably highlighting signature two-tone finishes like the stunning Dark Petrol and Verde Silver Metallic combination previously showcased on European debut drives.
Upgraded M177 Evo V8 Performance and Powertrain
Beneath the sculpted hood lies a heavily revised version of the manufacturer’s M177 Evo V8 engine, boosting output by nearly 10 percent. The flat-crank twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine now pumps out a formidable 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque—an increase of 53 horsepower and 89 pound-feet over previous iterations. Assisting this powerhouse is an integrated 48-volt mild-hybrid system that contributes up to 23 horsepower of electrical boost, alongside seamless energy recuperation and ultra-smooth start-stop functionality.
When the vehicle hits dealership lots, a quicker steering ratio promises sharper agility and immediate feedback. The standard Airmatic suspension pairs with proven E-Active Body Control, which utilizes road-scanning cameras to adjust damping rates 1,000 times per second to counteract body roll, dive, and squat. Furthermore, an innovative Car-to-X data feed anticipates upcoming road contours based on information relayed from Mercedes vehicles traveling ahead. Activating the dedicated “Maybach” driving mode unlocks an unmatched level of magic-carpet ride quality.
Lavish Cabin Craftsmanship and Next-Gen Infotainment
The primary driver behind Maybach sales has always been the interior experience, and this exclusively two-row configuration takes cabin comfort to extraordinary heights. Options lean heavily into Bentley territory, highlighted by the popular Manufaktur headliner which stitches together up to 20 individual pieces of leather, personally signed by the master craftsperson who built it. Fresh interior color palettes include a stunning combination of Beech Brown and Macchiato Beige Nappa leather, paired with exquisite trim finishes like natural-grain brown walnut wood or high-gloss silver metallic fabric.
The dashboard borrows heavily from the Maybach S-Class layout, featuring the expansive Superscreen arrangement that houses three distinct 12.3-inch displays under a continuous sheet of curved glass, complete with rose-gold 3D instrument dials. The “Zero Layer” user interface ensures that essential controls and frequently used applications remain just a single tap away. Driving this ecosystem is the advanced MB.OS software architecture, paired with MBUX infotainment and an intelligent virtual assistant capable of processing queries through ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini.
Rear-Seat Accommodations and Cargo Practicality
Despite the ultra-luxury appointments, space remains a frequent point of discussion. While the Maybach sedan benefits from an extended wheelbase offering nearly 50 inches of rear legroom, the GLS680 ditches the standard third row primarily to maximize second-row real estate, though the gains feel relatively modest. Rear legroom expands by just 1.5 inches to 43.4 inches. While generous, it trails behind some heavy-duty pickups, and foot space beneath the front seat cushions can feel constrained for passengers in larger footwear.
Still, this flagship SUV outpaces luxury rivals like the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan in rear legroom. Opting for the executive seating package allows the right-rear passenger to slide the front passenger seat forward for an airliner-style reclining experience, complete with integrated calf massage functions. However, adding these executive seats alongside the optional champagne chiller noticeably reduces trunk capacity, leaving cargo space limited to a couple of large carry-on suitcases and a backpack.
Rear-seat occupants are treated to an advanced entertainment setup featuring dual 11.6-inch high-definition displays managed via dedicated MBUX remote controls. Passengers can stream media, join Microsoft Teams video conferences using integrated cabin cameras, or charge multiple smartphones simultaneously on the upgraded rear wireless charging pad. Audio duties are handled by a standard 710-watt Burmester 3D surround-sound system featuring Dolby Atmos and 17 dedicated speakers.
Market Positioning and Verdict
Assembled at Mercedes-Benz’s global SUV hub in Alabama, the Maybach GLS continues its proud manufacturing lineage. While official pricing for the 2027 model year has not yet been finalized, the outgoing GLS600 starts at $181,350, and industry analysts anticipate only a minor price adjustment for this latest iteration.
With ultra-luxury marques from Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and Ferrari all fighting for dominance in the high-end utility vehicle sector, Mercedes is eager to capture a larger share of this lucrative market segment. While it faces stiff competition from established blue-chip status symbols like the G-Class and Range Rover, the latest Maybach GLS delivers an uncompromising blend of cutting-edge technology, bespoke craftsmanship, and effortless V8 performance.
Are you ready to elevate your driving experience with the ultimate expression of automotive luxury? Contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership today to reserve your build slot or schedule a private consultation for the upcoming model year.
