2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 SUV Is One Glamorous Electric SUV

Should your automotive predilections lean towards an electric vehicle that provides both opulence and respite, you might want to set your sights on the forthcoming Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 SUV, exuding a truly grandiose and splendid demeanor, set to be released this autumn.

Despite its imposing proportions, the EQS680 SUV eschews a third row, while the second row accommodates separate passenger seats, though the availability of a bench is optional.

The SUV’s front and rear motors generate a staggering 649 horsepower while producing 700 pound-feet of torque, a prodigious output identical to the Mercedes-AMG EQS sedan.

In the realm of high-flying elites, where private jet travel is a common indulgence that spews copious amounts of carbon emissions, making an eco-friendly statement on the solid ground might be preferred. With an astute sense of the prevailing cultural mood, Mercedes-Benz has crafted the first electric vehicle under its prestigious Maybach sub-brand, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 SUV.

Drawing inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, the Maybach variant exudes opulence and grandeur with a distinct touch of sophistication. The brand’s signature proclivity for plush comfort and flamboyance is infused into every aspect of the vehicle, starting with the Maybach-specific design at the forefront.

In lieu of the sizable front grille that adorns the gas-powered models, the Maybach version boasts a solid front fascia adorned with chrome bars in a vertical orientation, exclusive to the Maybach line. The erect hood ornament, a subtle tribute to the brand’s heritage, features the iconic three-pointed star emblem instead of the Maybach logo. Nevertheless, the exterior is teeming with the emblem of the Maybach marque, including the lower front bumper’s outer pods that harbor a multitude of logos.

The oversized wheels, initially available in 21 inches and later in 22 inches, with their striking disc-like appearance, are a classic Maybach cue. The thick band of luminous metalwork encircling the side windows is another distinguishing trait, as is the optional two-tone paint job that adds a touch of luxury to the already opulent vehicle. Illuminated running boards come as a standard feature, complementing the Maybach SUV’s overall extravagant aesthetic.

The Maybach, in all its luxury, spurns the practical third-row seat of its EQS SUV counterpart. It seems that those who require more seating than five will simply procure an additional Maybach. The specific model we encountered boasted of rear seats that were individualized and powered, with extendable leg rests. The bench option for three passengers is also available. The outer positions of the bench possess the same power-driven leg rest as the individualized chairs.

The luggage compartment is separated from the rear seats by a fixed bulkhead, exquisitely designed to match the wood or black lacquer trim that decorates the dashboard, door panels, front seatbacks, and console, and is finished with striped aluminum inlays. A hatch door between the rear seatbacks provides entrance to a refrigerated space, ideal for preserving chilled champagne.

The center console has two sets of cupholders: one with clips at the base to secure stemware such as the silver-plated champagne flutes that are available. Although the refrigerator component occupies a sizable portion of the trunk space, it is designed to be easily removed for occasions that necessitate the transport of more Louis Vuitton suitcases and fewer chilled champagne bottles.

The rear console accommodates a removable tablet, and there are 11.6-inch infotainment screens integrated into the front seatbacks. The Maybach logo is displayed on the C-pillars through stylishly crafted lamps, and the ambient lighting is distinctive with Maybach-exclusive color schemes. The front and rear headrests possess small pillows, with larger throw pillows available for rear-seat passengers.

The chauffeur, undeterred by the surroundings, finds little difference in the ambiance of the Maybach EQS SUV from that of its Mercedes EQS SUV cousin, save for the adorned pedals. The Hyperscreen remains an indispensable feature, naturally, while a Maybach-exclusive greeting screen and instrument-cluster display alternative make their debut. An array of simulated “soundscapes” is also available for passengers to enjoy, along with a distinctive aroma selection designated exclusively for the built-in ionizer: No. 12 Mood Ebony. Regrettably, the fragrance doesn’t evoke the scent of cash but instead combines sandalwood and spices.

Rather than utilizing the EQS580 SUV’s 536-hp powertrain, the Maybach EQS SUV employs a more forceful set of electric motors borrowed from Mercedes-AMG. The front and rear motors produce a robust 649 horsepower and 700 pound-feet of torque, equivalent to that of the Mercedes-AMG EQS sedan. Nevertheless, it lacks the AMG’s temporary power increase function that elevates output to 751 hp. Despite this, Mercedes is asserting a quick 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 4.1 seconds.

The suspension, consisting of air springs and adaptable dampers, receives a Maybach-specific adjustment, while the “Maybach” driving mode supplants the default Comfort mode, emphasizing a smooth and tranquil ride for passengers seated in the rear. Furthermore, four-wheel steering (with the ability to turn the rear wheels up to 10 degrees) is standard, facilitating maneuverability.

The Maybach EQS boasts a 108.4-kW battery (identical to the one utilized in the Benz version), with a range of 372 miles on the European WLTP cycle. The Maybach EQS adopts the front-axle disconnect that was recently introduced in the EQE SUV, as well as that model’s heat-pump HVAC system. Charging at a maximum rate of 200 kilowatts is possible with the Maybach EQS.

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS680 SUV will be available for purchase this fall.