The Mercedes-Maybach GLS: An ultra-luxury SUV worth the splurge

Maybach’s take on luxury SUVs holds its own against ultra-luxury rivals

When it comes to exotic luxury SUVs, brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Land Rover often take the spotlight. However, Mercedes-Benz has its own contender in the 2024 Mercedes-Maybach GLS, which stands out by offering remarkable rear-seat comfort at a relatively reasonable price when compared to its ultra-luxury competitors.

With a starting price of $170,000, the Maybach GLS isn’t an entry-level luxury option by any means. Still, when you consider that the Bentley Bentayga and top-spec Land Rover SV start at around $200,000, and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan kicks off at $374,000 (easily reaching $500,000 with options), the Maybach suddenly appears to be a rather attractive proposition. Having spent a week with the GLS 600, it becomes evident that this Maybach is exceptionally luxurious and, in several aspects, offers greater comfort than its ultra-luxury counterparts.

Exterior: A Touch of Maybach Elegance
The 2024 Maybach GLS is part of the updated GLS family, and it features subtle exterior revisions. The massive mesh grille is replaced by grille inserts with Maybach logos – the automotive equivalent of a luxury brand’s monogram. The Maybach-specific chrome grille with vertical slats adds a distinctive touch to the front, and the Maybach even boasts the iconic three-pointed star hood ornament, a rare sight on modern vehicles. It may not scream opulence like a Bentley Bentayga or Rolls-Royce Cullinan, but it certainly exudes a refined presence.

In the case of the review model, it came in Polar White, a no-cost color option resembling the flat grays offered by other luxury brands. For those unburdened by budget constraints, there are five two-tone color schemes available, some of which can cost as much as $18,500. The tested Maybach was equipped with optional 23-inch forged wheels, adding $5,500 to the price. While they enhance the vehicle’s aesthetics when clean, they are prone to getting dirty quickly and aren’t the best for ride comfort. The GLS comes standard with 22-inch wheels that offer a respectable appearance. Unfortunately, the remarkable Monoblock wheels from the previous year are no longer available in the United States.