Mercedes has officially completed the GLS lineup with the most luxurious SUV in the range. The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 takes things to the next level of opulence, resulting in an incredibly posh large SUV. It features a Maybach-specific radiator grille featuring illuminated surrounds and Maybach script, and optionally, an illuminated three-pointed star hood ornament. Additionally, Maybach-specific headlights with Rose Gold accents, front air inlet grilles with chrome Maybach patterns, and a new front bumper finish the look. In the rear, the GLS 680 features a redesigned liftgate and three-dimensional star motifs.
Three new exterior colors join the lineup: Dark Petrol, Patagonia Red, and Dark Petrol/Verde Silver Metallic two-tone. Wheel sizes range up to 23 inches in diameter, and yes, you can still get monobloc wheels. The Night Series Design and Exterior Design packages offer a more curated look to the Maybach GLS. If those aren’t enough, the 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 has an extended Manufaktur portfolio for extra customization options.
Opulence Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
Inside, the Maybach GLS 680 highlights its focus on pampering and coddling occupants. It comes with features like massaging multi-contour seats, luscious Nappa leather upholstery, and an advanced multi-stage air filter. Details like Rose Gold dials, illuminated outer air vents, and a wide range of wood and metal trim add to its luxurious feel. The SUV even includes an optional refrigerated rear compartment, fancy champagne flutes, and executive rear seats with a massage function.
On the tech front, the Maybach GLS 680 comes packed. It features the MBUX Superscreen, which houses three 12.3-inch displays under a single pane of glass. Powering it is the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB. OS), which uses artificial intelligence and enables over-the-air updates for all aspects of the vehicle. On the other hand, the MBUX Virtual Assistant integrates multiple AI agents, including Google Gemini and ChatGPT. It also features a unique Maybach-specific avatar: a Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star in Rose Gold. Not enough screen real estate? The MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment adds two 11.6-inch full HD displays with reconfigurable remotes. It also has integrated cameras for video conferencing and quick access functions to the climate, comfort, and entertainment functions. Additionally, the GLS 680 comes standard with a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system that has Dolby Atmos capability.
As for driver assistance tech, the Maybach GLS 680 comes with a full suite that employs 10 external cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a water-cooled supercomputer running on MB.OS. Optional features include the MB Drive Assist Pro, which further expands the capabilities of the SUV’s driver assistance tech. At a later date, Mercedes-Benz will add a City Pro function, enabling seamless point-to-point driving even in traffic. Furthermore, MB Drive Parking Assist comes standard, allowing for automated parking, a surround view camera, and rim protection warning.
2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680: Power and Composure
Prodigious power comes standard on the Maybach GLS 680. The new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine makes 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. It also features a 48-volt mild hybrid system with Mercedes’ second-generation integrated starter generator for smoother power delivery and an extra 23 hp boost, coasting, recuperation, and seamless operation for the engine stop/start system. To complement all of that power, a revised steering system with a more direct ratio now comes standard. As a result, the Maybach GLS 680 feels more composed and confident on the road. Furthermore, a new Airmatic air suspension system features intelligent predictive dampers for enhanced comfort, particularly for rear seat passengers.
Mercedes’ E-Active Body Control further elevates comfort in the Maybach GLS 680, analyzing the driving situation 1,000 times per second and adapting the suspension accordingly. Moreover, it can counteract roll, pitch, and lift movements by individually controlling spring and damper forces. It includes a Curve mode that allows the SUV to lean 3 degrees, reducing lateral forces for occupants. Since it’s based on the Airmatic air suspension, E-Active Body Control also keeps the vehicle level regardless of payload or road surface. The system can raise and lower the SUV several times, making it look like it’s bouncing around, helping free it from deep snow or mud. As a result, the system reduces wheel pressure on the driving surface to improve traction. E-Active Body Control operates on a 48-volt system and can recuperate energy. It features a 48-volt motor-pump unit on each wheel, which is coordinated by a central control unit.
The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 goes on sale in the U.S. in late 2026. Production will take place at Mercedes’ Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant with a dedicated Maybach team responsible for hand-finishing certain interior parts.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
