2020 Mercedes-Maybach GLS - the pinnacle of automotive luxury

Mercedes has changed the look of the Maybach GLS 600, but the interior has received the most luxurious features.

Mercedes decided to rip the covers off its first Maybach GLS 600 SUV in Guangzhou, China, instead of a traditional auto show, hinting at where the new ultra-luxury model is expected to sell best.

Based on the GLS large luxury SUV, the Maybach-badged model adds a number of ultra-luxury touches to elevate it and compete with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga.

The car is expected to hit showrooms in Australia in the third quarter of next year. From the outside, the GLS 600 is easily identified by its chrome-plated front grille with vertical slats.

Window surrounds, side skirts, model-specific badges, tailpipes and bumper trim are also finished in high gloss, while 22-inch wheels are standard and 23-inch components are available as an option.

Based on the GLS large luxury SUV, the Maybach-badged model adds a number of ultra-luxury touches.

Two-tone painting is also optional and is offered in seven different combinations.

However, the main changes affected the interior of the Maybach GLS 600, namely the second row of seats.

Only four benches are fitted as standard to maximize space, but a five-seat configuration can be added.

In the four-seat version, the rear benches can be electronically height-adjusted and tilt up to 43 degrees, and work in conjunction with window shutters to block out as much of the outside world as needed.

All rear touchpoints are finished in fine nappa leather for added customization and cushioning.

Only four benches are fitted as standard to maximize space, but a five-seat configuration can be added.

Seats, of course, with heating, cooling and massage.

The center console between the rear seats transforms into a table, a refrigerator with space for bottles of champagne and chimneys are also offered.

To avoid unwanted sound disturbances in the cabin, active and passive noise reduction technologies are installed throughout the interior, and Mercedes-Maybach has developed a special fragrance that can be supplied through the air conditioning system.

Rear passengers have additional climate control vents over the standard GLS, while the system has been beefed up for faster heating/cooling.

Also integrated into the rear console is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia tablet controller, which can control all entertainment functions.

Air suspension is standard, and the E-Active Body Control option aims to further absorb bumps in bumpy roads.

Drivers also get access to Maybach's special driving mode for the first time, which provides maximum comfort in the back seat.

From the front seats, the new Maybach is nearly identical to the donor GLS car.

When the rear doors are open, the car automatically lowers to make getting in and out easier and the footrests extend out of the car.

From the front seats, the new Maybach is almost identical to the donor GLS car, with the exception of all-leather trim and model-specific badges.

Although Maybach adds a number of extra components, the removal of the third row seats means it weighs about the same as a regular GLS.

Powered by the familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine, the Maybach GLS 600 gets a unique power setup of 410kW and 730Nm of torque, which can be expanded for other 600-specific options.

Combined with the 48-volt mild hybrid system, fuel consumption is 11.7-12.0 liters per 100 kilometers.