2022 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 4Matic Review

The luxury SUV market in Malaysia has consistently maintained stable growth, with consumer demand for spacious interiors, high-end configurations, and brand prestige continuing to rise. However, in the ultra-luxury segment, there are relatively few models that combine everyday practicality with ultimate comfort. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, as the flagship SUV under the brand, merges Maybach's luxurious DNA with the practical attributes of the GLS. Its core highlights focus on executive-level rear seat configurations, the smoothness of its hybrid powertrain, and a comprehensive range of advanced technology features. This time, we got a chance to test the actual vehicle, focusing on its everyday driving comfort and rear-seat experience to see if it truly meets the expectations of top-tier buyers for a "mobile palace."

Starting with the exterior, the overall design continues the robust silhouette of the GLS, but the details are distinctively Maybach. The front features a vertical chrome grille with the Maybach emblem embedded in the center, accompanied by sharp LED headlights on both sides, giving it high recognizability. The car's side profile is sleek, with a wheelbase of 3,135mm. Chrome-plated side skirts exclusive to Maybach have been added to the lower part of the doors, and the 23-inch multi-spoke wheels further enhance the luxurious feel. At the rear, the LED taillights run across the width of the vehicle, echoing the front design. The chrome detailing on the rear bumper and the four-outlet exhaust layout convey a sense of solidity without losing a powerful stance. As for the lighting system, the full LED headlights support automatic on/off and adaptive high/low beams, providing excellent nighttime illumination.

Once inside, the first impression is the luxurious materials. The dashboard is wrapped in Nappa leather, combined with wood grain trim and metallic accents, delivering a fine touch. The central control area is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, paired with a fully digital instrument panel in a dual-screen layout. The operation is smooth, and the display clarity meets flagship model standards. The front seats support electric adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, and the headrests feature a pillow design, ensuring long drives remain comfortable. Notably, the rear seats are the centerpiece of this car, featuring an independent four-seat layout. Both seats offer electric adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The seat for the left-side passenger also includes an electrically adjustable leg rest and footrest, which can recline into a fully flat position at the touch of a button. The rear center armrest contains a control screen, allowing adjustments to the seat angle, air conditioning temperature, and even the position of the front passenger seat. The air conditioning system features a fragrance diffuser and an ionizer, complemented by the Burmester 13-speaker sound system, creating a serene and luxurious cabin atmosphere quickly.

In terms of space, the vehicle measures 5,205mm in length, 2,030mm in width, and 1,838mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,135mm. The front row provides a headroom of approximately one fist and three fingers, while the rear row offers more than three fists of legroom in a normal sitting position. Even when the seats are reclined to a semi-flat state, the legs can stretch out fully. Regarding storage, the trunk has a regular capacity of 520L, which can easily accommodate four 28-inch suitcases. The rear seats do not support folding, but this is entirely sufficient for daily use in this type of vehicle. The in-cabin storage compartments are also abundant, with a massive center armrest box, large door panel storage pockets that can hold oversized water bottles, and a 220V power outlet in the front row for convenient use of office equipment.

Powertrain: It is equipped with a 4.0T V8 twin-turbo engine + 48V mild hybrid system. The engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 558PS and a peak torque of 730N·m (the official data does not specify the separate torque of the motor, but the mild hybrid system primarily optimizes smoothness during take-off). It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). During actual driving, the mild hybrid system intervenes smoothly at the start, with almost no perceivable jerks. When the accelerator is pressed hard, the V8 engine provides ample power reserves, achieving an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 4.9 seconds. In actual tests, acceleration in sports mode is rapid, with a strong sense of thrust; overtaking requires only a light press on the accelerator. For daily driving, the comfort mode is recommended, as the power output is smooth, the transmission shifts actively, and the engine speed is mostly kept below 2000 rpm, which ensures fuel efficiency.

Handling: The steering wheel has a relatively light steering effort, and its precision is already quite good for a large SUV. At low speeds, such as when maneuvering, it does not feel heavy. The suspension system adopts a front double-wishbone + rear multi-link independent suspension, with tuning clearly tilted towards comfort. When passing over speed bumps or bumpy roads, the suspension absorbs most of the vibrations, keeping the body stable. However, while taking sharp corners, due to the hefty body weight (2785kg), noticeable body roll occurs. After all, it is not intended to be a sporty SUV. The four-wheel-drive system predominantly distributes power to the front axle during normal driving. On slippery road surfaces, it automatically adjusts power distribution to enhance stability. However, as an urban SUV, its off-road capabilities are more suited to light non-paved roads — it's not the type that anyone would use for serious off-roading.

Fuel consumption: The official combined fuel consumption is 13.4L/100km. In our tests on mixed city and highway routes, fuel consumption was 16-18L/100km in congested city conditions, while highway cruising reduced fuel consumption to around 11L/100km. For a 4.0T V8 engine model, this performance is as expected. Noise control is excellent; when cruising at 120km/h on the highway, wind and tire noise are kept to a very low level. Engine noise is only noticeable when the accelerator is pressed hard, producing a rich, non-harsh sound.

The details of driving comfort are also very well done. The front seats come equipped with massage functions, offering multiple modes to effectively alleviate driving fatigue. The rear seats feature ventilation and massage functions, ensuring passengers remain comfortable even during long-distance travel. The involvement of energy recovery (mild hybrid system) is very subtle, with no noticeable dragging sensation — it's almost imperceptible during daily driving. The braking system performs stably, with a linear pedal response. During emergency braking, the body remains stable, without noticeable nose dive.

In summary, the core advantages of the Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC lie in its executive-level rear-seat experience, the smoothness of its hybrid powertrain, and the standard high-tech configurations across all variants. Compared to its class competitor, the Bentley Bentayga (starting at approximately 2.8 million MYR), it offers a lower price and richer rear-seat features. Compared to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, it delivers greater practicality in daily use and is easier to handle. This vehicle is suitable for two groups of people: First, business executives who require a luxury reception vehicle, as the rear-seat comfort can meet the high-end needs of clients. Second, families that pursue ultimate comfort, as the spacious interior and premium features cater to the traveling needs of the entire family.

Overall, the Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is a flagship SUV that perfectly combines luxury and practicality. It does not overly pursue sporty performance but focuses on creating a top-notch riding experience. If you are looking for a luxury SUV that can both showcase your status and meet daily use needs, it would be a great choice.