The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 pairs a 550-hp 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with standard E-Active Body Control. This 6,019-pound luxury SUV reaches 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and isolates rear passengers from rough pavement. Looking at the data, the Maybach carries 40 more horsepower than the standard GLS 580 while matching its 538 lb-ft torque peak.
Powertrain: 4.0-Liter V8 Biturbo and 48-Volt EQ Boost
The M176 4.0-liter V8 biturbo uses a hot-vee layout with two twin-scroll turbochargers mounted inside the cylinder banks. Specifically, this configuration shortens exhaust gas travel and reduces turbo lag. The engine produces 550 hp at 6,500 rpm and 538 lb-ft from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. In addition, the 48-volt EQ Boost integrated starter-generator adds 21 hp and 184 lb-ft during low-speed acceleration. Consequently, the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic and 4MATIC all-wheel drive launch the GLS 680 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds.
- Engine: 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with 48V EQ Boost
- Horsepower: 550 hp at 6,500 rpm
- Torque: 538 lb-ft at 2,000-4,000 rpm
- EQ Boost assist: 21 hp and 184 lb-ft
- Transmission: 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Fully variable 4MATIC all-wheel drive
- 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds
- Top speed: 130 mph electronically limited
- The nine-speed automatic uses a lockup clutch that engages in first gear to reduce converter slip.
- 4MATIC uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to vary torque between the axles.
Chassis: E-Active Body Control and Granular Dimensions
Standard E-Active Body Control uses the 48-volt electrical system to drive hydraulic dampers at each wheel. From an expert perspective, air springs alone cannot manage the GLS 680's 6,019-pound curb weight without excessive body motion. The hydraulic system adjusts spring force and damping independently at each corner. A stereo camera scans the road ahead and preloads the suspension before the wheels hit a pothole or expansion joint. This cuts pitch, roll, and head toss.
- Wheelbase: 123.4 in (3,135 mm)
- Length: 205.0 in (5,205 mm)
- Width: 79.9 in (2,030 mm)
- Height: 72.4 in (1,838 mm)
- Curb weight: 6,019 lb (2,730 kg)
- Standard wheels: 22-inch Maybach multi-spoke alloy wheels.
- Optional wheels: 23-inch forged Maybach wheels.
Rear Cabin: Four-Seat Layout and Executive Package
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 removes the standard GLS third row. In its place, Maybach installs two power-adjustable rear captain's chairs with heating, ventilation, and massage. The available Executive Rear Seat Package adds a fixed rear center console, folding rear tables, and a refrigerated compartment. Buyers also get a panoramic roof and an AIR BALANCE cabin fragrance system.
Pro-Tip: Which Options Protect Resale Value?
Order the Executive Rear Seat Package and the 23-inch forged wheels. These two options carry the most secondary-market weight because high-content rear-seat Maybachs draw private-aviation and livery buyers. A base car without the rear console and folding tables narrows the resale pool and softens lease residuals.