The New Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680

When Mercedes-Maybach re-badged its flagship luxury SUV to the GLS 680, it signaled a major leap forward for the brand’s pinnacle high-rider. Upgrading the previous GLS 600 nomenclature, the GLS 680 elevates everything that makes a Maybach a Maybach: unyielding V8 power, supreme cabin insulation, and an unmistakable roadside presence.

It isn’t just an upper-tier SUV it is a private sanctuary on wheels engineered to compete directly with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga.

1. Powertrain & Engineering: Effortless V8 Muscle

Under the long, sculpted hood sits Mercedes’ latest 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged M177 Evo V8 engine. Electrified with a second-generation 48-volt mild-hybrid starter-generator system, the powertrain delivers effortless, immediate momentum without sacrificing low-end smoothness.

Dynamic Chassis & Suspension

To match the increased output, Mercedes-Maybach retuned the chassis for ultimate composure:

• E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL: The fully active hydropneumatic suspension scans the road ahead via cameras, neutralizing body roll, pitch, and harsh bumps before they reach the cabin.
• Dedicated Maybach Drive Program: Designed explicitly for rear-passenger comfort, this mode smooths out throttle mapping, suppresses gearshifts to minimize cabin pitch, and optimizes second-gear starts.
• Active Curve Tilting: Leans the SUV gently into bends like a motorcycle rider, counteracting lateral forces on passengers.

2. Exterior Presence: A Commanding Light Signature

The GLS 680 makes its presence known long before it pulls up. Maybach’s signature design language takes center stage:

• Illuminated Grille & Hood Ornament: A massive chrome waterfall grille is framed by an updated, highly expressive LED headlight cluster. For the first time on the GLS line, the legendary standing three-pointed hood star is illuminated.
• Forged 23-Inch Wheels: Massive 23-inch forged alloy wheels featuring Maybach’s iconic multi-spoke pinstripe theme fill out the arches.
• Two-Tone Paintwork: Hand-painted two-tone color splits—available through the bespoke MANUFAKTUR customization program—remain a hallmark of the exterior.
• Automated Entrance: When you unlock the doors, the air suspension lowers the vehicle slightly while an electrically deployable, illuminated aluminum running board swivels silently into place.

3. The First-Class Cabin: A Haven for the Chauffeur-Driven

Step past the acoustic glass into the rear cabin, and it becomes clear why the GLS 680 sacrifices a third row of seating entirely. Designed as a two-row four-seater, the rear is modeled after a first-class aircraft suite.

• Executive Reclining Seats: The rear outboard seats recline up to 43 degrees, complete with power-deployable calf rests, heated armrests, and extended hot-stone massage programs. Pushing the front passenger seat forward opens up well over four feet of legroom.
• Acoustic Sanctuary: Enhanced acoustic dampening, thicker floor insulation, and active noise cancellation transform the interior into a silent bubble, completely isolating passengers from the outside world.
• MB.OS & MBUX Technology: Powered by the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), rear passengers control seating, 4-zone climate control, and media using detachable MBUX tablets or individual rear touchscreens.
• Burmester High-End Surround Sound: Integrated seat exciters combine with a multi-speaker Burmester sound system to deliver immersive, 3D spatial audio.

Summary Specifications

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 stands as a masterclass in grand touring luxury. By marrying massive V8 grunt with whisper-quiet ride isolation, Maybach has redefined what it means to travel at the absolute peak of modern automotive luxury.