2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680: More Power, More Technology and Even More Luxury
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS has never needed additional horsepower to attract attention, but Mercedes-Benz gave it more anyway.
For 2027, the flagship luxury SUV returns as the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 with refreshed styling, upgraded cabin technology and a more powerful electrified V8. The changes do not reinvent the GLS, but they make an already extravagant SUV feel more modern and distinctive.
More Power Under the Hood
The 2027 GLS 680 uses an updated twin-turbocharged V8 producing 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Its 48-volt mild-hybrid system can briefly contribute another 23 horsepower when additional assistance is needed.
That represents a noticeable increase over the 550-horsepower 2026 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600. Mercedes-Benz pairs the upgraded engine with standard AIRMATIC air suspension, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL and a Maybach-specific driving program designed to prioritize smoothness and passenger comfort.
This is not intended to be an aggressive performance SUV. The additional power should instead make acceleration feel nearly effortless, especially when merging, passing or carrying passengers and luggage.
An Exterior That Looks Properly Expensive
The redesigned Maybach grille now features an illuminated surround, while an optional illuminated Mercedes-Benz hood ornament adds another upscale nighttime detail.
Mercedes-Benz also redesigned the headlights with twin-star elements and rose-gold accents. Electrically extending running boards feature illuminated edges and project a Maybach pattern onto the ground. New wheel designs and additional two-tone paint combinations give buyers even more ways to personalize the SUV.
I like the overall design. It has the size and presence expected from a flagship luxury SUV without completely abandoning the familiar shape of the GLS. Some of the illuminated details may be a little excessive, but subtlety has never been the main purpose of a Maybach.
Eastern Bluegrass Reviews Style Rating: 8/10
It is bold, upscale and immediately recognizable. The updated grille and lighting help distinguish it from an ordinary Mercedes-Benz GLS, although the overall design remains more of a substantial refresh than a complete transformation.
First-Class Comfort Inside
The largest improvements may be found inside.
The new MBUX Superscreen stretches across the dashboard and incorporates the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz infotainment technology. Maybach-specific graphics help separate the experience from less expensive Mercedes-Benz models.
Available rear-seat entertainment includes two 11.6-inch displays with video-conferencing capability. Buyers can also select massaging seats, rear wireless charging pads, premium MANUFAKTUR materials and an optional refrigerated compartment between the rear seats.
The standard Burmester 3D Surround Sound system includes Dolby Atmos, while additional acoustic improvements are intended to keep the cabin isolated from road, wind and engine noise.
This is an SUV designed as much for the person sitting in the back as it is for the driver. The additional horsepower may receive the headlines, but the quiet cabin, suspension and rear-seat features are what will likely matter most to its intended customer.
Affordability Remains Relative
Mercedes-Benz has not announced official U.S. pricing for the 2027 GLS 680.
For comparison, the outgoing 2026 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 starts at $180,000 before options, taxes and destination charges. Two-tone paint, premium interior selections, larger wheels, rear entertainment and other personalization choices can push the final price considerably higher.
Judged against an ordinary three-row luxury SUV, the Maybach is extremely expensive. However, within the ultra-luxury SUV market, it provides an alternative to vehicles from Bentley and Rolls-Royce while delivering similar levels of visual presence and rear-seat comfort.
Eastern Bluegrass Reviews Affordability Rating: 5/10
That rating is relative to the ultra-luxury segment. The GLS 680 is far beyond the budget of most buyers, but it may still make financial sense to someone already shopping at this level.
The Eastern Bluegrass Reviews Verdict
The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 improves the areas that matter most in a flagship luxury SUV. It has more power, more distinctive styling, upgraded technology and an even more elaborate rear-seat experience.
The 603-horsepower V8 sounds impressive, but this SUV’s real appeal remains its comfort, craftsmanship and ability to make every arrival feel like an occasion.
The styling earns an 8 out of 10 from us. Affordability receives a 5 out of 10 when judged within the ultra-luxury market. The final value assessment will depend on how closely the new model’s price stays to that of the outgoing GLS 600.
The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 is expected to reach U.S. dealerships later in 2026. Eastern Bluegrass Reviews will continue watching for official pricing, fuel-economy figures and final availability.
Does an SUV built primarily around rear-seat luxury really need 603 horsepower, or is that exactly what buyers should expect from a Maybach?