Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 2024 Review

In Malaysia's luxury SUV market, the GLS-Class has always been one of the benchmarks for large luxury vehicles. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC further focuses on the needs of ultra-high-end users for a luxurious and exclusive experience. The core selling points of this vehicle are quite clear: the powerful performance of the V8 hybrid power system, first-class cabin-level comfort for rear passengers, and the unique attention to detail characteristic of the Maybach brand. The purpose of this test drive is to verify whether it can simultaneously meet the driver's expectations for performance and the passengers' demands for luxury in both daily driving and business reception scenarios.

In terms of exterior design, the Maybach GLS 600 is highly recognizable. The front face features Maybach's signature vertical chrome-plated grille, paired with the iconic three-pointed star emblem on the hood, making it more dignified than the regular GLS. The side profile retains the elongated appearance of a large SUV, with the 23-inch multi-spoke chrome wheels further enhancing its luxurious presence. The exclusive Maybach insignia on the D-pillar subtly signifies its identity. At the rear, the quad chrome exhaust layout and seamless LED taillights align with its luxury positioning without being overly ostentatious.

Sitting inside, the first thing noticeable is the fine-quality materials. The dashboard and inner door panels feature extensive Nappa leather wrapping, complemented by matte wood veneers and chrome trims, offering a premium tactile and visual experience. The center console is well-organized, with an 11.6-inch touchscreen that operates smoothly. The built-in MBUX system supports voice control, making daily use extremely convenient. The front seats come with electric adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functionalities. The headrests are even equipped with adjustable pillows, ensuring long drives won't feel tiresome. However, the core highlight lies in the rear seats — two independent executive seats offer electric adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage features. The right-side passenger seat even includes an electric leg rest and footrest. With the push of a button, it can recline almost flat, and rear passengers can adjust the front passenger seat via the central armrest control screen, offering a completely VIP experience.

In terms of space, the dimensions of this vehicle are 5208mm in length, 2030mm in width, and 1838mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3135mm. Rear legroom is extremely spacious; even a 180cm tall passenger would have more than two fists' distance between their knees and the front seat. Storage capacity is also practical, with a trunk volume of 520L, enough to accommodate two 28-inch suitcases along with several backpacks. Both the front and rear rows are equipped with USB and Type-C ports. The rear row also has an independent air conditioning control zone, and a small refrigerator is tucked inside the central armrest, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.

In the power department, the Maybach GLS 600 is equipped with a 4.0T V8 twin-turbocharged engine coupled with a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering a combined maximum power output of 557PS and a peak torque of 770N·m. It's paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration takes only 4.9 seconds. When driving, the mild hybrid system assists the initial start by providing additional torque, offering responsive power. Mid-range to high-range acceleration remains consistent, and stepping hard on the accelerator during overtaking provides a pronounced push-back sensation. Driving modes include Comfort, Sport, and Economy. Switching to Sport mode makes the transmission shift more aggressively, and the steering wheel becomes slightly heavier, catering to occasional driving enjoyment.

Handling and chassis performance are in line with the positioning of a luxury SUV. The front double wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension are tuned for comfort, but the support is not weak. When passing speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension can effectively filter out vibrations, and the body does not sway noticeably; when cornering at high speeds, body roll is well-controlled and does not give a "boat-like" feeling. The steering wheel has medium precision with minimal play, making daily driving very easy. The full-time four-wheel-drive system provides better traction on slippery roads and handles unpaved roads occasionally without issue.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 14.2L/100km, while actual city driving is about 16-18L/100km. On the highway, it can drop to around 12L. Considering its weight and power, this performance is reasonable. Noise control is excellent, and at a speed of 120km/h on the highway, wind noise and tire noise are not obvious. The 13-speaker Burmester audio system delivers clear sound quality, and even at high volume, there is no distortion.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2024 Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC are prominent: its first-class rear seat configuration is unmatched by competitors in the same segment (such as the BMW X7 M50i and Audi Q8 60 TFSI e), and the V8 hybrid system provides more than sufficient power reserves. Combined with the exclusivity of the Maybach brand, it fully meets the needs of high-end business reception. However, its price is not low, and the RM 1,918,888 price tag is destined to appeal to only a select few.

This vehicle is most suitable for two groups of people: one is business owners who frequently require high-level corporate hospitality, and the other is families seeking ultimate rear seat comfort. It can not only provide enough respect for clients while conducting business but also offer family members great comfort during long-distance travel. Overall, the Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC is not a car chasing handling or cost-performance but a dedicated vehicle that takes "luxury and comfort" to the extreme, perfectly matching the demands of users who have high standards for the quality of life.