Mercedes-Maybach Just Made Its Flagship SUV Even More Luxurious

Luxury SUVs have become the vehicle of choice for many ultra-wealthy buyers, and Mercedes-Maybach wants to make sure they don't have to compromise. The new 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 takes everything the facelifted GLS offers and turns the dial several notches higher, with more technology, more comfort, and even more presence than before.

The styling leaves little doubt about where this SUV sits in the lineup. A larger chrome grille with signature vertical slats dominates the front, joined by a brighter lower fascia, chrome accents across the air intakes, and Maybach detailing throughout.

At the rear, the taillights now feature chrome star graphics, while the grille surround and Maybach lettering illuminate after dark. Buyers can even specify a lit hood ornament, and subtle rose gold accents inside the headlights add another exclusive touch.

Wheel choices start with 22-inch alloys, but most buyers will likely gravitate toward the optional 23-inch forged wheels. They feature self-leveling Mercedes center caps that remain upright while the wheels are moving. Those who prefer a more understated look can choose the Night Series and Exterior Design packages, which replace much of the bright chrome with darker finishes.

Open the doors and the real upgrades begin. The dashboard is dominated by Mercedes' latest MBUX Superscreen, combining three 12.3-inch displays beneath a single sheet of glass. Rear passengers haven't been forgotten either, with dual 11.6-inch entertainment screens, new Beech Brown and Macchiato Beige Nappa leather options, a refrigerated compartment with champagne bottle holders, additional sound insulation, and a standard 15-speaker Burmester surround sound system delivering 710 watts.

The biggest change sits under the hood. Mercedes-Maybach replaces the previous engine with a new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 featuring a flat-plane crankshaft and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The V8 develops 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, while the integrated starter-generator contributes another 23 hp. A nine-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels, and Mercedes says new balance shafts help keep the engine smoother and quieter.

The driving experience has also been refined. Revised steering promises better precision, while updated air suspension improves both ride comfort and handling. Buyers can also add E-Active Body Control, a system that monitors every wheel up to 1,000 times per second. It can anticipate bumps before the SUV reaches them, help the GLS free itself off-road, and even lean into corners by up to three degrees to reduce body movement.

Pricing hasn't been announced, but the new GLS 680 is expected to cost more than the outgoing GLS 600, which started at around $180,000 in the U.S. Production will continue in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with the first deliveries scheduled before the end of 2026.