Following much anticipation, Mercedes-Benz has revealed its Maybach SUV, a vehicle that has been in the pipeline for nearly a decade. Just a few days ago, the Maybach GLS 600 SUV which is based on its existing GLS model.
Interestingly, the launch of the Maybach GLS 600 was timed to perfection. The GLS 600 may not be the most attractive of the luxury SUV market fleet, but from a behavioural economics perspective, we judge everything based on a reference point and the luxury SUV market hosts a more limited range of vehicles. Starting with the Bentley Bentayga, the Rolls Royce Cullinan and the Aston Martin DBX (that looks akin to a Ford Focus SUV despite Aston Martin not being affiliated with Ford). Owing to the competitors’ sense of design the GLS 600 does favourably well in terms of aesthetics and style.
The GLS 600 offers state-of-the-art technology that somewhat supersedes the existing S-Class (the S-Class will have a re-vamped model next year). The Mercedes-Benz technological capabilities are superior to the BMW brand and the VW Group, therefore you can enjoy the tech and added comforts bestowed by luxury brands such as Bentley or Rolls-Royce.
Regrettably, as seen on some of the press images, there are some less aesthetically appealing parts to the interior including some plastic trims. Admittedly, the slightly ridiculous front perspective of the car is not a selling point, but when compared with its rivals in this market, the other alternatives are not much improved. Interestingly, the GLS 600 is the only luxury SUV that offers a central differential lock and a low range gearbox, though this has not been officially confirmed as yet.
Unfortunately for Mercedes, the GLS 600 does not offer the 6-lt V12 engine that you can find inside the Mercedes-Benz S600. The GLS 600 featured a 4-lt V8 bi-turbo engine that is available on AMG models, however, failing to offer the V12 engine means that the GLS will lag behind the Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
Ultimately, the Maybach GLS 600 is a captivating vehicle for this market. Personally, I would not choose to purchase one, however, it will undoubtedly capture the market of Bentley Bentayga as well as penetrating the boundaries of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan market.
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