Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 2022 Review

The luxury SUV market has continuously maintained a stable demand locally. Consumers not only pursue spatial practicality but also value the status symbol that a brand represents – the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 4Matic is precisely the flagship model targeting this demand. As a full-size SUV under the Mercedes-Maybach lineup, it not only inherits Mercedes’ luxury heritage but also offers exclusive upgrades aimed at enhancing the rear-seat experience, which is a core selling point for many buyers. This test drive will focus on its design details, rear-seat comfort, performance, and daily practicality to see if this RM 1,789,453-priced model meets the expectations of high-end consumers.

In terms of appearance, the Maybach GLS 600 4Matic can be easily distinguished from the regular GLS at a glance. The front features a vertically slatted chrome grille, coupled with the three-dimensional star emblem on the hood, giving it a highly recognizable identity. The front bumper is accented with chrome strips on both sides, further emphasizing its luxury feel. The side profile is sleek, with a length of 5205mm and a wheelbase of 3135mm, giving the side a well-proportioned and elegant look. The 23-inch multi-spoke wheels (front: 285/40 R23, rear: 325/35 R23) perfectly complement the body without appearing excessive. At the rear, the connecting LED tail lights are adorned with the “MAYBACH” lettering on both sides, and the quad exhausts with chrome finishing hint at its performance capabilities. The overall design maintains the SUV’s imposing stance while highlighting its exclusive status through detailed chrome elements.

Stepping inside, the interior’s luxurious feel is immediately overwhelming. The dashboard is wrapped in a large area of Nappa leather, combined with wood veneers and metallic trims, offering a delicate texture and a visually rich layering. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen form a dual-display system, with interface smoothness and display clarity meeting the standards of a flagship model. The central screen supports both touch and voice controls, making daily operations highly convenient. In terms of features, the front seats support electric adjustment, memory, heating, and massage functions; the headrests are also equipped with pillows for added comfort during long drives. The rear seats are the highlight – two independent executive seats that support electric adjustment, memory, heating, ventilation, and massage. The left rear-seated passenger even has an electric leg rest and a one-touch recline feature; coupled with the ability to adjust the front passenger seat from the rear, rear passengers can achieve an almost fully reclining position. Additionally, the car comes standard with a Burmester 3D surround sound system (13 speakers), Air Balance fragrance system, and ionizer, further enhancing the luxurious ambiance.

The spatial performance fully aligns with the positioning of a full-size SUV. After adjusting the front seat to a suitable position, a passenger with a height of 180cm still has a margin of one fist and two fingers above their head. The rear space is even more impressive, with legroom exceeding two fists, and when combined with the electric leg rest, long journeys feel far from cramped. In terms of storage capability, the trunk offers a standard capacity of 520 liters, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats, making it convenient for carrying multiple suitcases or golf bags in everyday use. Interior storage compartments are equally ample, with a generously sized center armrest storage box and door storage slots. The front row also features a 220V/230V power outlet, convenient for business professionals to use laptops.

Powertrain: The Maybach GLS 600 4Matic is equipped with a 4.0T V8 twin-turbocharged engine combined with a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine delivers a maximum output of 558PS and a peak torque of 730N·m, while the electric motor provides an additional 22PS and 250N·m of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel-drive system, achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 4.9 seconds, according to official specs. During actual driving, the involvement of the mild hybrid system in the starting phase makes the power response very brisk. During mid-to-high-speed acceleration, the V8 engine has ample reserves, and a deep press on the accelerator produces a noticeable push-back feeling, making overtaking almost hesitation-free. Driving modes include Eco, Comfort, and Sport. In Comfort mode, the power delivery is smooth, ideal for daily cruising. In Sport mode, the transmission's shifting logic becomes more aggressive, and throttle response is more sensitive, satisfying occasional driving desires.

Handling and chassis performance lean towards a comfort-oriented setup. The steering wheel feels light, with a slight play, which aligns with the positioning of a luxury SUV, making daily driving very relaxed. The chassis uses double wishbone suspension at the front and multi-link independent suspension at the rear, offering excellent shock absorption. When driving over speed bumps or bumpy roads, most vibrations are effectively filtered out, and rear passengers barely feel any significant jolts. The full-time all-wheel-drive system provides adequate traction on slippery roads or during light off-roading. However, considering its positioning, most owners are unlikely to subject it to heavy off-roading. In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined consumption is 13.4L/100km. During actual test drives, urban traffic conditions result in fuel consumption of about 16-18L/100km, while highway cruising tends to be around 11-12L/100km. For a vehicle weighing 2.785 tons with a V8 engine, this performance is within the normal range.

Ride comfort details are very well executed. The cabin's sound insulation is excellent, keeping wind and tire noise at very low levels during highway driving. Only during rapid acceleration does the sound of the V8 engine lightly penetrate the cabin, and the sound quality is rich and not intrusive. The seats offer great support and wrapping characteristics, while the rear independent seats’ headrests and leg supports perfectly conform to the body’s contours, ensuring no fatigue even during long journeys. Additionally, the vehicle comes standard with features such as a HUD heads-up display, 360-degree panoramic camera, and automatic parking, adding convenience for everyday use.

In conclusion, the core strengths of the Maybach GLS 600 4Matic are evident: exclusive luxury design details, class-leading rear seat comfort, powerful V8 engine, and comprehensive features. Compared to competitors like the Bentley Bentayga or Rolls-Royce Cullinan, it is relatively more affordable while maintaining the distinctive identity of a Maybach. Compared to a standard GLS, the upgrades in rear-seat comfort and luxury features meet the unique needs of high-end users. This car is most suitable for individuals who prioritize rear-seat comfort, such as business executives, corporate leaders, or those who need to balance family travel with business receptions—they seek the practicality of an SUV while also desiring the exclusivity and comfort that goes beyond ordinary luxury brands.

Overall, the Maybach GLS 600 4Matic is a luxurious SUV "born for rear-seat passengers." It achieves flagship standards in terms of design, features, and comfort, with performance that aligns with its positioning. If you are a high-end user with a strong focus on rear-seat comfort, this car is worth considering.