- A more expressive design, with an imposing front end, creates an unmistakable presence.
- New features, such as a new nappa leather option, refined trim elements, enhanced massage functions and additional surround sound speakers, create an even more exclusive private ambience.
- A more powerful V8 engine and refined steering deliver greater ease, precision and poise.
- Improved insulation and a new engine configuration elevate acoustic and vibration comfort to a new level of serenity.
- The MB.OS operating system and the latest generation of MBUX offer a seamless digital experience that responds intuitively to the user’s needs.
- Point-to-point urban driving assistance provides first-class support in complex urban traffic.
Since its debut in 2019, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS has defined the pinnacle of the luxury SUV segment by combining craftsmanship, presence and exceptional ride comfort. In the year marking the 140th anniversary of the automobile and the 105th anniversary of Maybach, the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS reinforces this character with new advances in design, comfort, digital experience and driving dynamics. True to Wilhelm Maybach’s enduring maxim, it aspires to create the best from the best. The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS is now available to order in China. Orders in the US and Europe will open during the summer of 2026, with other markets to follow.
Its more expressive design further enhances the vehicle’s distinctive appearance. Inside, new materials, additional comfort features and enhanced acoustic measures create an even more refined environment that is unmistakably Maybach. A new electrified eight-cylinder engine delivers more power and more immediate throttle response, whilst preserving the serenity and poise expected of a Maybach.
“With the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS, we have elevated the character of our luxury SUV with even greater refinement. It combines smooth power delivery with an imposing presence. Every detail has been designed to enhance comfort and serenity, in a way that is unmistakably Maybach.” Markus Bauer, Head of Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes-Benz AG.
Key facts
A style that turns heads: the new Maybach-specific radiator grille, with its illuminated outline and, for the first time, a subtle illuminated ‘MAYBACH’ inscription within the grille frame, conveys confidence and grandeur. In selected markets, even the vertical Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet is elegantly illuminated. The twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps feature rose gold accents.
Perfectly designed, down to the very last detail: each 23-inch forged wheel features a centrally mounted Mercedes-Benz star, designed to remain perfectly upright at all times. A precision ball-bearing mechanism allows the star to self-level by gravity, maintaining vertical alignment as the wheel turns.
Power without fanfare, silence without compromise: a new electrified twin-turbo V8 engine delivers a more powerful driving experience, combined with efficiency and serenity. A revised steering system, with a more direct ratio, delivers a new level of precision, agility and responsiveness on every journey.
Sublime ride comfort and maximum agility: Based on the new standard AIRMATIC air suspension, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL reads and reacts to every driving situation 1,000 times per second, precisely counteracting roll, pitch and lift. In CURVE mode, the GLS leans up to three degrees when cornering, reducing lateral forces for all occupants. The result is an extraordinarily smooth driving experience.
The art of a grand welcome: The Mercedes-Maybach GLS’s electric running boards emerge with natural elegance as soon as a door is opened, extending fully in less than a second. At night, an LED strip illuminates the step whilst a Maybach emblem is simultaneously projected onto the ground: a discreet welcome ceremony. When the door is closed, they retract seamlessly into the sill.
New Maybach-specific two-tone paint finish: non-metallic dark petrol/metallic silver green joins the exclusive two-tone exterior palette for an elegant and contemporary statement.
A new dimension of intuitive digital experience: The latest generation of MBUX, featuring Maybach-specific graphics, an enhanced Zero Layer and the MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by generative AI, transforms the digital experience into something deeply personal, intelligent and unmistakably Maybach. Over-the-air updates ensure that the driving experience evolves over time.
Dedicated to well-being in every seat: the front seats offer a new vibration massage function integrated into the seat cushions. In the rear, the Executive Seats introduce an additional touch of refinement: a new massage function which, for the first time in the GLS, extends to the calves.
Even more expressive design options: the new Maybach Exclusive nappa leather in beech brown/macchiato beige and two new decorative elements further enhance the interior: open-pore brown walnut wood with a V-groove and an exclusive high-gloss silver/black mixed fabric with a diamond pattern.
Point-to-point urban driving assistance: MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO can assist the driver in navigating urban streets with advanced SAE Level 2 assistance, transforming the complexity of dense urban traffic into a unique and effortless experience. Market launch begins in China, followed by the US.+
The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS: elegant and intuitive
Where true character finds its ultimate expression
The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS has been refined with a clear objective: to convey even greater status and presence through the precision and quality of its design. At the centre of the new front end is a redesigned, Maybach-specific radiator grille. Its illuminated outline creates a distinctive signature. For the first time on a GLS, the MAYBACH lettering is subtly illuminated within the grille frame. In selected markets, the vertical Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet can also be illuminated, adding a further touch of distinction.
The Maybach-specific headlamps further accentuate the front end’s appearance. They feature refined rose gold details, a Maybach emblem and ambient lighting that runs along the sides of the star modules and the transition between the headlamps and the radiator grille frame. An elegant black panel visually connects the headlamps and
the grille surround to form a cohesive front-end design. The Maybach pattern on the air intakes is finished in chrome. The new bumper lends the front end a more assertive and refined stance, whilst a Maybach-specific lower skid plate, framed in chrome, adds a further distinctive element.
At the rear, a redesigned tailgate featuring an elegant design panel visually connects the new rear light clusters into a single statement and further emphasises the vehicle’s width and presence. The three-dimensional star motifs, each framed in chrome, characterise the rear light clusters and reinforce Maybach’s unmistakable identity.
New paint colours expand the possibilities for personalisation. Non-metallic Dark Petrol, MANUFAKTUR Metallic Patagonia Red and the exclusive two-tone finish in non-metallic Dark Petrol/Metallic Silver Green are added to the Maybach colour palette.
Truly yours: the expanded MANUFAKTUR range
The MANUFAKTUR programme offers a wide range of personalisation and craftsmanship options, allowing customers to make their Maybach truly their own. Almost all Maybach customers choose at least one option from the MANUFAKTUR programme, highlighting the growing demand for individualisation in the premium segment.
The expanded MANUFAKTUR range is available for the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS from launch, including exclusive leather interior packages with full leather upholstery, extending even to the headliner. Manufactured at the MANUFAKTUR facility in Sindelfingen, the headliner is the largest component produced there and is sewn entirely by a single artisan, each of whom adds their own individual signature. Up to 20 precisely cut sections of leather are combined to create a flawless finish. In 2026, the headliner was the most popular and sought-after component amongst Maybach customers, underlining the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail in this segment.
Designed to perfection: forged wheels with a floating Mercedes-Benz star
A new 22-inch light-alloy wheel featuring the distinctive 20-spoke design expands the range. The 23-inch forged wheels feature a three-pointed star mounted at the centre and designed to remain upright: meticulous proof that, in a Maybach, no detail is too small to be perfected. A precision ball-bearing mechanism allows the iconic star to self-level by gravity and maintain its vertical alignment as the wheel turns. Like a compass that always finds true north, it remains steady and serene whilst everything around it moves.
The art of a grand welcome: illuminated electric running boards
In the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, even getting into the car becomes an experience. The electric running boards extend smoothly in less than a second when a door is opened. They are clad in anodised aluminium with black non-slip rubber inserts and finished with a chrome Maybach emblem. At night, an integrated LED strip illuminates the step, whilst a Mercedes-Maybach pattern is projected onto the ground. When the doors are closed, the running boards retract seamlessly into the sill.
Somber elegance: Progressive Night Series
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS Night Series is a world unto itself. At the front and along the flanks, dark chrome elements create a more understated and technical appearance. The electrically extendable running boards are finished in dark anodised aluminium. The exclusive 23-inch light-alloy wheels with a seven-spoke design feature inserts bearing the Maybach pattern. Exterior finishes include Obsidian Black Metallic, MANUFAKTUR Brilliant Opalite White, MANUFAKTUR Magno Opalite White and the exclusive two-tone Obsidian Black Metallic/Mojave Silver Metallic finish. Inside, black combined with Pearl Black nappa leather creates a dark, immersive ambience. Alternatively, Crystal White with Pearl Black accents offers a more striking contrast. Refined herringbone trim and silver pilasters in open-pore brown walnut wood complete the handcrafted interior.
Out of this world: a private sanctuary that envelops every sense
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS is conceived as a sanctuary of the highest refinement. New design elements, additional comfort features and enhanced acoustic improvements further elevate the interior experience. Every journey is designed to be more relaxed, more comfortable and more immersive, creating a sense of calm and well-being for all occupants.
At the heart of this refinement lies a redesigned cockpit featuring the new MBUX Superscreen, which seamlessly combines digital elegance with handcrafted luxury. In its Maybach-specific design, the screen features rose gold dials, casting reflections across the surface like light passing through a fine piece of jewellery. Between the two rings, a golden Maybach emblem rests with understated dignity. Behind it, a delicately textured background in gold, rose gold and black sets a tone of serene opulence.
The new illuminated air vents blend seamlessly into the glass surface on either side of the MBUX Superscreen. Their design replaces conventional vents with free-floating gondolas that precisely direct the airflow, whilst contributing to the sculptural appearance of the instrument panel.
Dedicated to well-being in every seat: new massage functions
The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS is deeply committed to the well-being of every occupant. The multicontour front seats offer a new vibration massage developed into the seat cushions, ensuring that the driver and front passenger arrive at every destination feeling fully refreshed. In the rear, the two Executive Seats introduce a new massage function which, for the first time, extends to the calves – because no part of the body should be neglected.
A cosmos for the senses: a sense of tranquillity deeper than ever before
The new exclusive Maybach nappa leather upholstery in beech brown/macchiato beige lends warmth and depth to the interior. Two new decorative elements further enrich the extensive range of personalisation options: open-pore brown walnut wood with a V-groove and an exclusive high-gloss silver/black blended fabric with a diamond pattern. Positioned between the rear seats, they conceal the door to the glass-fronted refrigerated compartment, which offers space for two 0.75-litre bottles of champagne and further emphasises the lounge-like character of the rear compartment.
The Burmester® 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos has also been enhanced. Two additional surround speakers at the rear, combined with a more powerful 710-watt amplifier, bring the total number of speakers to 15 and expand the acoustic range within the cabin, creating an even richer sound experience for all passengers.
Every breath, purified: new electric cabin air filter
The advanced multi-stage filtration system renews the cabin air approximately every 90 seconds, ensuring that all occupants breathe exceptionally pure air at all times. At its heart, an electric filter ionises fine dust particles and works in conjunction with a pre-filter that captures larger particles before they enter the cabin. The cabin filter also remains active in recirculation mode.
Where the world fades away: exceptional acoustic and vibration comfort
The acoustic comfort of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS has been further enhanced through additional insulation measures. The transmission tunnel and engine bulkhead are lined with a high-quality non-woven material, whilst a specially developed heavy-duty blanket on the engine cover reduces high-frequency combustion noise. Acoustic foam in selected body cavities further protects the cabin from engine, road and wind noise. The result is an environment of extraordinary serenity.
Elegant: where performance becomes art
The latest evolution of the electrified eight-cylinder engine (M177 EVO), combined with the ISG 2.0, delivers 450 kW plus 17 kW of boost and 850 Nm of torque. Its power output is comparable to that of a 12-cylinder engine, whilst meeting the high standards of refinement associated with Maybach. It responds more quickly to throttle inputs, operates more efficiently and delivers its power more smoothly than before, combining confident performance with a remarkably refined character.
At the heart of the new V8 engine lies the second-generation integrated starter-alternator, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It fills any gaps in power delivery with immediate and seamless precision, enabling coasting, energy recovery and an almost imperceptible start-stop function. Two new Lanchester balance shafts further reduce vibrations. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS offers an even more refined driving experience, harmoniously combining serenity, efficiency and effortless power. All this is further enhanced by the specific MAYBACH driving programme within DYNAMIC SELECT, developed especially for supreme ride comfort.
Revised steering: a new level of precision and agility
A revised steering system, with a more direct ratio, delivers greater precision, agility and responsiveness on every journey, whether travelling along the most majestic boulevards or the windiest country roads. The steering feel is more immediate, the handling more intuitive and the overall driving experience more serene and confident.
Anticipating the road ahead: new AIRMATIC with cloud-based damping
The new AIRMATIC air suspension introduces intelligent, predictive damping, specially designed to enhance comfort for rear passengers. Using real-time Car-to-X information from Mercedes-Benz vehicles travelling ahead via the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, the system anticipates the road surface and adjusts accordingly.
Smooth ride comfort with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL: intelligence at 1,000 decisions per second
The optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL uses five multi-core processors and more than 20 sensors to analyse and react to driving situations 1,000 times per second. By individually controlling the spring and damper forces at each wheel, it can reduce roll, pitch and lift. In CURVE mode, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS leans into bends by up to three degrees, significantly reducing lateral forces for all occupants.
Built on the AIRMATIC air suspension as a fully load-bearing base, the system maintains ride height regardless of load or terrain. In the dedicated Off-road programme, the rocking mode automatically raises and lowers the vehicle rhythmically to help free it from deep sand or mud, alternating tyre pressure to regain traction. Operating on a 48-volt system, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL also recovers electrical energy. Four 48-volt motor-pump units, one at each wheel, are coordinated by a central control unit.
Intuitive: where digital technology works seamlessly
Powered by the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS is continuously evolving through software updates. The system combines artificial intelligence (AI) and an advanced processing architecture with permanent connectivity to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. Through over-the-air updates⁴, the vehicle remains up to date over time, and new functions and personalisation options can be added after purchase, allowing the digital experience to be tailored even further to its occupants.
Intelligence meets personalisation: the new world of MBUX
The new generation of MBUX centres on the standard MBUX Superscreen, which combines three 12.3-inch (31.2-centimetre) screens beneath a continuous glass surface. MBUX Zero Layer places key information and recommendations directly in view. A customisable bottom bar and the ability to organise and name personal app folders make the experience more personalised. Currently, over 40 apps⁴ can be installed across categories such as audio, video, productivity and entertainment. The portfolio is constantly expanding.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant is much more than just a voice command system. It is a conversational companion with genuine intelligence. Thanks to capabilities from Microsoft and Google, including ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing Search and Google Gemini, it maintains complex, contextual dialogues and recalls previous conversations with fluid naturalness. In the MBUX Zero Layer, it appears as a lifelike avatar in the shape of the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, finished in a Maybach-specific rose gold.
A world of its own: the rear suite
In the rear, two 11.6-inch (29.5-centimetre) Full HD screens are combined with newly designed, individually configurable remote controls. These allow passengers to control the climate control, privacy blinds and rear-seat entertainment. The Maybach-specific user interface extends to both the screens and the controls. Integrated cameras also enable video calls during the journey, further enhancing the sense of comfort and connectivity in the rear compartment.
First-class support at every turn: point-to-point urban driver assistance
To deliver first-class driver assistance, the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS is equipped with 10 exterior cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a water-cooled supercomputer running on MB.OS. This exceptionally powerful control unit is capable of performing up to 254 quadrillion operations per second (TOPS), with ample capacity for updates or new functions made available via over-the-air updates. Artificial intelligence processes this vast amount of raw data from the sensors in real time, building a precise and continuously updated understanding of every traffic situation ahead.
In Europe, the MB.DRIVE Standard package is included as standard, featuring DISTRONIC Distance Assist. Depending on the market, it can be expanded to include MB.DRIVE ASSIST and MB.DRIVE ASSIST PLUS. MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO introduces point-to-point urban assisted driving. This pioneering system merges driver assistance and navigation into a seamless, entirely new experience. At the touch of a button, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS can assist with driving through urban streets from the car park to the destination, navigating through dense city traffic.
Guided by the Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy, a light touch on the steering wheel is sufficient in urban traffic. This ‘hands-on-steering-wheel’ principle ensures that it is always possible to intervene immediately in the steering, whilst the unique cooperative steering concept keeps the system active even when manual adjustments are made. As an SAE Level 2 system, MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO requires continuous supervision at all times, and full responsibility remains with the driver. The function will be available in China from market launch and is scheduled to arrive in the US later this year. Its subsequent roll-out in other markets will also depend on local regulatory conditions.
The GLS can park itself: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST
MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST, included as standard, identifies available parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle earlier than previous versions. For the first time, it also allows diagonal parking and can detect free spaces that are not marked with white lines. It helps the driver manoeuvre out of a parking space even if the vehicle was parked manually. Manoeuvres are completed at speeds of up to 5 km/h. A new Digital4 Extra feature provides wheel protection warnings during manoeuvres to protect the tyres from potential damage.
The Reversing Manoeuvre Assistant enables the vehicle to precisely reverse the last 150 metres of its route. Whilst this assistant is active, the rear-view camera image and a graphical representation of the planned route are displayed on the main screen. It is particularly useful in traffic situations where it is not possible to turn round.
A special experience: production in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS is manufactured in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA. For three decades, the plant has been producing large SUVs bearing the three-pointed star for markets around the world. From the pioneering M-Class of 1997 to the current Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach models, more than five million SUVs have rolled off the production line, all of them setting the standard for excellence in their segment.
The production of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, with its exceptionally high-quality fittings and finishes, requires a significant investment of time and effort. A dedicated Mercedes-Maybach team hand-finishes the model’s distinctive interior elements. Selected for their skill and prior experience, the team members received specialist training in Germany at the Mercedes-Maybach MANUFAKTUR. Two team members are responsible for the complete finishing of each vehicle, in a process carried out outside the regular assembly line for the other SUV models. Before and after these dedicated stations, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS is integrated into Mercedes-Benz’s SUV production line for final completion and approval.
The Mercedes-Maybach specialists take on a high degree of personal responsibility and identify deeply with the product. Particular attention is paid to the careful handling of the high-quality interior trim, with extensive use of nappa leather and wood trim elements. The entire process — from the production of these components by highly specialised suppliers through to their assembly by specially trained team members and final approval — is geared towards achieving a flawless result.
Source: MERCEDES-BENZ Press Club