Within a remarkably short span of two years, Mercedes-Benz astonishingly unveiled half a dozen fully electric EQ models, warranting a well-deserved pause. Yet, the unyielding German manufacturer pushed forward, revealing the AMG-branded EQS and EQE sedans. Currently, Maybach enters the fray as Mercedes interweaves its ultra-luxury division’s unique flair into the EQS SUV.
Introducing the 2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 SUV – a magnificent reinterpretation of the standard EQS SUV, generously borrowing elements from its forerunner, the opulent $170,000 GLS600.
Akin to recent Maybach iterations, a two-tone paint finish graced by a hand-painted pinstripe is available. The quintessential Mercedes emblem embellishes the hood, accompanied by a cascading grille sporting the inaugural Maybach inscription. Petite Maybach logos embellish the non-operational lower intakes, reminiscent of the Louis Vuitton pattern, and reemerge in the animated puddle lamps.
Although the EQS’s core design remains intact (contrary to the concept’s assertions), it is the meticulous details that embody the Maybach emblem. The cabin exemplifies this, with Mercedes forgoing the optional third row and installing a permanent bulkhead behind a duo of stately rear seats.
These remarkably adjustable seats, outfitted with calf massagers and heated shoulder rests, also include the customary heating, ventilation, and massage functionalities. The right rear seat features a retractable footrest. A fixed center console separates the seats, but opting for the First-Class Rear alternative extends the console, linking it to the front console with a floating bridge design.
This visually captivating console not only exhibits a puddle lamp casting the Maybach emblem onto the carpet but also boasts heated cupholders, four USB-C ports, two HDMI ports, and a tablet compartment. Predictably, silver-plated champagne flutes and a removable refrigerator are optional. Regrettably, Mercedes didn’t supply Veuve Clicquot to evaluate the glassware. Furthermore, dual 11.6-inch displays mounted on the front seatbacks allow access to the MBUX infotainment system.
The Maybach enhancement transcends aesthetic and material modifications, augmenting the EQS’s performance with more potent twin electric motors. The collective output reaches 649 horsepower and 700 pound-feet of torque, propelling this opulent behemoth to 60 mph in an impressive 4.1 seconds. Intriguingly, Mercedes-EQ enthusiasts will recognize this power output as identical to the standard AMG EQS sedan. The 200-kilowatt DC charge peak matches the standard EQS, while the overall range achieves 372 miles under the WLTP cycle.
For Maybach EQS passengers, the upgraded air suspension takes center stage, featuring a dedicated Maybach driving mode. Supplanting the Comfort setting, Maybach mode prioritizes rear passenger ride quality by reducing body movements and modifying an “oscillation node” to diminish impact amplitudes.
Mercedes remains reticent about the Maybach EQS pricing, manufactured alongside the standard model in their Tuscaloosa, Alabama facility. Nonetheless, a starting price approaching $200,000 appears reasonable. Sales in North America are expected to initiate in late 2023 or early 2024.
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