Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 4MATIC SUV Review

A Mercedes-Maybach is an interesting proposition. Maybach used to be a standalone brand, but over a decade ago, it became a Mercedes-Benz sub-brand. The models are based on Mercedes passenger cars and are badged 'Mercedes-Maybach'.

This has led some to opine that Maybach is a 'trim level' or a 'specification'. But while this is technically true, it misses the point. A Maybach is no ordinary Mercedes-Benz model, for its true purpose - apart from pampering passengers - is to serve as a blank canvas for its owner to personalise.

The current Maybach lineup consists of the S-Class, GLS, SL, and EQS SUV. The EQS is Maybach's first electric model and the 'entry point' to the range, although the latter point is incredible, given that it starts from over $1.1 million.

Elements such as the vertically striped 'grille' and Maybach emblems set this model apart from its 'regular' siblings

Swanky character

Looks are subjective and the seven-figure price tag will further polarise opinions about the design. But one thing's for sure: The Maybach EQS SUV looks very different from its regular sibling, especially in Night Series form.

To begin with, a Maybach EQS SUV features the grille with vertical lines and 'Maybach' lettering. The Night Series option swaps the exterior brightware for dark chrome, so the Mercedes tri-star ornament, badges, and Maybach emblems are all finished in this understated colour.

This option also sees the shiny, seven-hole forged alloy wheels replaced by black rims with the Maybach motif. Frankly, the standard wheels look much more luxurious compared to these. I don't find the motif attractive and chrome wheels are better suited to the car's character.

The Night Series adds rose gold finishes that complement the dark chrome bits

Approach the locked vehicle with the key in your pocket and the driver's door automatically pops open to welcome you. Sensors detect obstacles, so there's no need to worry about damaging other cars. All four doors can be automatically opened and closed via the infotainment screen.

Inside, the seats are upholstered in Maybach Exclusive Nappa leather, which is claimed to be even nicer than 'normal' Nappa. The Night Series also features Manufaktur dark brown open-pore walnut wood with a fishbone pattern.

The rose gold accents and unique pedals are cool, but the designers should have gone with fewer, instead of more Maybach emblems

These make the Maybach EQS SUV's cabin feel even more refined than a 'normal' EQS SUV, and to further set it apart, the instrument cluster has a unique Maybach layout that features the brand emblem, along with rose gold accents on the dials. The digits appear and fade out as the needle hits them, adding to the unique vibe.

A Burmester 4D audio system with Dolby Atmos is fitted to the test unit, but there's a catch: You must stream lossless music to fully enjoy the system's potential.

The best seat in the house also offers a 4D sound system with a customisable sound profile for your listening pleasure

On-board bliss

Speaking of enjoyment, the best place to enjoy this SUV is in the backseat - specifically, behind the front passenger seat. The Maybach EQS SUV is equipped with the Chauffeur Package as standard. Press the recline button on the door panel and the front passenger seat moves forward and the footrest is deployed. At the same time, the rear seat reclines and extends the leg rest.

The entire process takes about 40 seconds and after that, you can comfortably carry on with your conversation, business call, or nap. If you've specified a chiller, it might be a good time to pour yourself a flute of champagne, too.

Also standard on the Night Series is the First-Class rear, which extends the centre console all the way to the rear to further enhance the cocoon-like space. The console adds temperature-controlled cupholders, USB-C ports (four of them!) and a pair of HDMI interfaces.

Extensive wood panelling makes the interior feel truly luxurious

And if you somehow still need reminding that you're in a Maybach, the emblem is projected onto the floor beneath said console. Unlike the other badges and logos, this one is in such an understated location that it's easy to miss.

On the other hand, what you won't miss when you're behind the wheel is the copious performance. Two electric motors produce 484kW (649bhp) and an eyebrow-raising torque figure of 955Nm. Feeding the motors is an enormous 118kW battery, which Mercedes claims provides a maximum range of 615km.

Most clients probably won't leave the tarmac, but this SUV can do some off-roading if needed

This SUV needs outputs like these because it weighs well over 2.5 tonnes, with the large battery itself contributing around 700kg. But as a testament to what mountain-flattening torque can deliver, the heft is only noticeable when you're braking or stopping. 

Meanwhile, three-point turns are made easier with rear-wheel steering. At low speeds, the rear wheels can turn up to 10 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels. In a normal EQS SUV, it's only up to 4.5 degrees.

'Maybach' mode suits this car best, and the automatic doors aren't just a nice touch – they're expected in a model like this

All Maybach models have a distinct 'Maybach' setting in the drive menu, which is symbolised by a 'C' and a rose gold diamond. Mercedes says it's a further enhancement to the 'Comfort' setting, and that selecting it makes the ride even plusher.

But while the ride can never be described as hard, it's not exactly pillowy soft either. There's some firmness to the proceedings, which is unexpected. Perhaps the 21-inch wheels will shoulder some of blame. The cabin though, is even quieter than a regular EQS SUV. Mercedes does not mention this, but Maybach models receive extra layers of sound insulation.

The 21-inch wheels look good, but they may also be responsible for the less-than-pillowy ride

Ferocity unleashed

Maybach mode also tempers the power delivery to help prevent any sudden surges that may unduly alarm passengers. With so much power on tap, going from sedate to warp speed has the potential to cause a heart attack.

What does 955Nm in the blink of an eye feel like? Set the drive mode to 'Sport' and when the road clears, stab the accelerator pedal and keep your foot down for one second. In that instant, the Maybach EQS SUV makes the leap into hyperspace - without your body.

It was exhilarating, but the violence of the physics was just as terrifying. You are slammed into your seat and your organs squish against one another, as the car believes it can leave this planet on electric power alone. The impressive performance is part of the indulgence, but nobody really needs this SUV to finish the century sprint in 4.4 seconds.

In fact, an unhurried drive is more in line with the Maybach remit. Zipping from one point to another is fine. But the ability to take your sweet time because you can afford to? Now that's a lifestyle that's truly befitting of the brand.

Plenty to ponder

The Maybach EQS SUV is heavy, powerful, stupendously fast, and well-appointed. At nearly twice the cost of an EQS450 SUV, you're paying to enjoy that reclining rear seat, and exclusivity. The ability to personalise your car and have it with two-tone paintwork adds to the latter point.

If you were considering an alternative, the only rival would be the Bentley Bentayga EWB (Extended Wheelbase) with the Airline Seat Specification. This also lets the owner recline the rear seat, and the car can be personalised via the Mulliner programme. However, the Bentayga EWB is not electric and delivers less performance compared to the Maybach EQS SUV.

'Is it worth it?' is a question only the would-be buyer can answer. We can discuss the car's abilities, upsides and downsides all day long, but frankly, a Maybach is an emotional proposition. And that makes its value intangible to anyone but its owner.

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