The new Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV is the company's first all-electric vehicle. The Maybach EQS is simply a zhuzhed-up version of the EQS 580 4Matic. (Not that the EQS SUV requires a more posh edition; it's already opulent.)
A Maybach-specific grille and hood ornament are visible during the day, while a unique light signature is evident at night. Small faux intakes with dozens of tessellated "MM" badges are located at the bottom corners of the also unusual front bumper. To be honest, I believe there are much too many Maybach logos strewn throughout the outside and inside of the EQS 680, but I assume that branding is a significant part of what you're paying for.
The SUV is offered in Maybach's characteristic two-tone paint scheme, which complements the SUV's bean-like, single-bow shape and helps make a large SUV appear smaller when viewed from the curb. More Maybach emblems can be seen on the D-pillars and side-step running boards, as well as in the center caps of the SUV's wonderfully hefty monobloc-style 22-inch wheels, which I believe are the nicest cosmetic update.
Inside, the SUV's cabin improves on the already opulent cabin of the basic EQS SUV by using more premium materials. The optional Hyperscreen infotainment suite, which features a unique "Maybach" aesthetic, is surrounded by high-quality leather, exposed wood, and chrome.
The First Class Rear Seat upgrade, which replaces the second and third rows with a pair of big reclining chairs and a larger center console, provides the most luxury in the second row. A dedicated wireless phone charger, a removable 7.5-inch wireless control tablet, Maybach-branded champagne flutes and holders, and a mini refrigerator are among the features of the console. The fridge takes up a significant portion of the SUV's cargo area, but it is easily removed by lifting a single handle.
The SUV also has a one-of-a-kind sound enhancement. Drivers are met with a dramatic, harmonized crescendo of sound while approaching and unlocking the Maybach EQS. Once on the road, the SUV's cabin is also filled with a one-of-a-kind "Aerial Grace" active sound generation theme, a Maybach-specific ambient light motif, and a bespoke perfume named "No.12 Mood Ebony." Fancy.
The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 is built around a retuned version of the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic+ sedan. Because Benz previously stated that it has no plans to produce an AMG version of the EQS SUV, the Maybach is now the only method to combine the more powerful electric motors with the larger chassis. The dual electric motors provide 649 horsepower (484 kW) combined, 700 pound-feet of torque, and a 4.4-second 0-62 mph sprint. The Maybach EQS SUV has the same 107.8-kilowatt-hour battery as the other EQS SUV models, therefore its WLTP-estimated range remains at 373 miles. (This is expected to decline to roughly 305 miles when subjected to the US Environmental Protection Agency's more stringent testing cycle.)
The 2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV will be available later this year. Pricing has not been published, but prospective purchasers with more money than wisdom might expect to pay around $200,000.
