Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS is expected to be powered by a highly refined and potent mild-hybrid powertrain, consistent with the 2024 model. The primary engine option is typically a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo petrol engine, which produces approximately 557 PS of power and a colossal 730 Nm of torque. This engine is seamlessly integrated with a 48V mild-hybrid system, known as EQ Boost. The EQ Boost system provides an additional 22 PS and 250 Nm of torque for short bursts, aiding acceleration and improving efficiency.

The engine is paired with a smooth and responsive 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, sending power to all four wheels via the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. In real-life driving, the performance is effortless and exhilarating. The V8 delivers strong, linear acceleration, allowing the large SUV to reach 100 kmph from a standstill in around 4.9 seconds. Overtaking manoeuvres are executed with immense confidence. Despite its power, the mild-hybrid system contributes to a respectable fuel economy for its class, typically around 8-10 kmpl, though this can vary significantly with driving style. The engine's refinement ensures a quiet and vibration-free cabin, even at high speeds.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS is engineered to deliver an exceptionally smooth and serene ride, prioritising passenger comfort above all else. It comes standard with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, an advanced active suspension system that uses a 48V electric motor to individually control the spring and damping forces at each wheel. This system effectively counteracts body roll, pitch, and squat, ensuring a remarkably flat and composed ride even over challenging Indian road conditions. The "Maybach" driving mode further refines the suspension and powertrain for ultimate rear passenger comfort.

Handling for such a large SUV is surprisingly composed. While not designed for sporty driving, it feels stable and secure at high speeds. The steering is light and precise, making urban manoeuvres easier despite its size. The turning radius is aided by the advanced suspension. Panic or emergency braking performance is strong, with large brakes providing confident stopping power. The combination of the sophisticated suspension and extensive sound insulation creates a quiet and isolated cabin experience, making long journeys remarkably relaxing.

The interior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS is a sanctuary of luxury, meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled passenger experience. The cabin design is an evolution of the standard GLS, elevated with exquisite materials and bespoke finishes. It features premium Nappa leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and polished metal accents throughout. Seating is typically configured for four or five occupants, with the four-seat layout offering two individual, executive-style rear seats that are electrically adjustable, heated, ventilated, and offer massage functions. These rear seats provide exceptional legroom, comparable to a first-class airline cabin.

Cargo space is generous, with a practical boot capacity even with all seats in use. Numerous storage compartments, including refrigerated options in the rear, cater to occupant needs. Fit and finish are impeccable, reflecting Maybach's commitment to craftsmanship. Ambient lighting with extensive customisation options creates a serene atmosphere. Features like multi-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and electric sun blinds further enhance comfort. The focus is entirely on providing a supremely comfortable and luxurious environment for all occupants, particularly those in the rear.

Infotainment

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS features the latest iteration of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, presented across dual high-resolution screens. The primary interface consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display, seamlessly integrated into a single widescreen unit. The system is highly intuitive, controllable via touch, steering wheel mounted controls, a central touchpad, or advanced voice commands activated by "Hey Mercedes."

The MBUX system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated navigation with augmented reality, and a suite of connected services. Rear passengers benefit from dedicated MBUX tablets, allowing them to control various comfort and entertainment functions, including the optional Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, which provides an immersive audio experience through numerous high-quality speakers. The system also offers over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring the software remains current with the latest features and improvements. The emphasis is on a seamless, intuitive, and highly personalized digital experience for all occupants.

The exterior design of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS maintains its distinct identity, building upon the standard GLS with exclusive Maybach enhancements. The front fascia is dominated by the signature Maybach grille with fine vertical chrome slats and the iconic Mercedes-Benz star mounted on the bonnet. Revised LED headlights, potentially with Digital Light technology, offer sophisticated illumination. The front bumper is also unique to the Maybach, featuring chrome accents and larger air intakes that exude grandeur.

From the side, the Maybach GLS boasts a stately silhouette, accentuated by chrome window surrounds and bespoke alloy wheel designs, typically ranging from 22 to 23 inches. The extended wheelbase (shared with the standard GLS) ensures ample rear passenger space. At the rear, redesigned LED taillights with unique Maybach graphics and a prominent chrome strip connect them, further enhancing its luxurious appeal. Dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear bumper complete the opulent look. Dimensions are expected to be similar to the 2024 model, approximately 5,208 mm in length, 2,030 mm in width, and 1,838 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,135 mm. Exclusive dual-tone paint options are also available, further enhancing its exclusivity.

Safety in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS is paramount, incorporating a comprehensive array of passive and active features. While specific crash test ratings for the Maybach GLS are not typically published due to its low volume and high cost, the underlying GLS platform has received top safety accolades from international bodies like Euro NCAP and NHTSA. The robust body structure and high-strength steel construction provide exceptional occupant protection.

Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags (expected to be 9 or more, covering front, side, curtain, and knee areas), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Traction Control. A full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is standard, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, active steering assist, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, and a 360-degree camera system with parking assist. The PRE-SAFE® system prepares occupants for an impending collision. The vehicle's advanced systems ensure a high level of safety and driver support across various road and weather conditions.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS competes in the exclusive realm of ultra-luxury SUVs, where competition is limited but intense. Its primary rivals include the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Bentley Bentayga, and the upcoming Range Rover SVAutobiography (if a 2025 model is distinctively positioned).

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents the epitome of bespoke luxury and prestige, often surpassing the Maybach GLS in sheer exclusivity and customisation options, albeit at a significantly higher price point. It focuses on an unparalleled "magic carpet" ride.

The Bentley Bentayga offers a blend of luxury, performance, and sportiness. It provides a more driver-focused experience while retaining high levels of opulence, often appealing to those who enjoy driving their luxury SUV.

The Range Rover SVAutobiography (or its equivalent top-tier variant) offers a strong combination of off-road capability with high-end luxury, appealing to buyers who value both prestige and versatility.

The Maybach GLS differentiates itself by offering the ultimate expression of Mercedes-Benz luxury, focusing heavily on rear-seat comfort and advanced technology within a more accessible (relatively) ultra-luxury package compared to the Cullinan. Its powerful V8 mild-hybrid engine and E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension system provide a unique blend of effortless performance and supreme ride comfort, making it a compelling choice for the most discerning Indian buyers.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS stands as a magnificent achievement in the luxury SUV segment, offering a truly opulent and refined experience. It successfully blends the practicality of a large SUV with the unparalleled luxury and exclusivity of the Maybach brand. Its sumptuously appointed interior, powerful yet smooth mild-hybrid V8 engine, and advanced E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension system create an environment of supreme comfort and serenity.

For the ultra-luxury buyer in India who seeks the ultimate in chauffeur-driven comfort, commanding road presence, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 Maybach GLS is an exceptional choice. While its price places it in an elite category, the value it offers in terms of bespoke luxury, performance, and advanced features is undeniable. It represents a top-tier option for those who demand nothing less than the very best in their automotive pursuits.