Want an ultra-exclusive luxury SUV? Maybach may build a range-topping GL-Class

By Andrew Hard January 16, 2015

Maybach made a triumphant return to form last year by unveiling the Mercedes-Maybach S600 at the 2014 LA Auto Show.

The stretched S-Class (pictured) shows that Maybach is back and means business. The Mercedes subsidiary had lain dormant since its disappearance in 2012.

The special S600 features an interior that makes first-class airliners look cheap, with personalized TVs, hand-stitched trim, silver-plated champagne flutes, and Nappa leather throughout.

Now, according to Autocar, Mercedes officials are mulling an ultra-exclusive luxury SUV to do battle with the likes of Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

“The theory is that we will do more Maybach models, but it will not be for all vehicles,” said S-class project manager Martin Hulder. “Any Maybach must make sense, because it is not just about putting an emblem on a car. Buyers rightly have high expectations of a Maybach, and we must be sure to always deliver on them.”

The Mercedes-Maybach S600 is mainly aimed at Asian markets with a large executive population, and the German company expects over 70 percent of its sales to occur there. This car is for those who want to be driven, not drive, so rear passenger room, lavish amenities, and high-class style are a must.

Mercedes GL-Class — Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Image used with permission by copyright holder

The next Maybach product is rumored to be based on Mercedes’ GL-Class, a full-size five-door SUV with a high baseline in terms of luxury and comfort.

The standard GL-Class starts at $63,000, and is offered with a variety of gas and diesel engines. The range-topping GL63 AMG version packs a 5.5-liter biturbo V8 that produces 550 horsepower. Before options and technology packages are added, the GL63 AMG costs $119,450.

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