2026 Mercedes-Maybach GLS debuts with refreshed design, V8 mild hybrid and MBUX – Malaysia launch coming soon

In July 2026, as Mercedes-Benz celebrated the 140th anniversary of the birth of the automobile and the 105th anniversary of the first Maybach luxury car, the next-generation Mercedes-Maybach GLS SUV made its global debut. Featuring a comprehensively refreshed exterior, an enhanced digital cabin and an updated powertrain, the new model once again raises the bar for the fusion of ultimate luxury and cutting-edge technology.

Refreshed Exterior: A Showcase of Light and Luxury

The new model adopts a redesigned front fascia, featuring illuminated grille surrounds, an illuminated Maybach emblem and an illuminated upright Mercedes-Benz star for the first time. Together, these elements create an unmistakable road presence after dark. Along the sides, the 23-inch forged alloy wheels feature floating centre caps bearing the iconic three-pointed star, ensuring the emblem remains perfectly upright even as the wheels rotate.

Mobile Palace: A Multi-Sensory Luxury Cabin

Inside, the cabin is centred around the latest MBUX Superscreen, complemented by rose gold-finished control knobs and backlit outer air vents that further enhance the sense of craftsmanship. Both the front and rear seats benefit from enhanced massage functions, and every variant comes standard with the upgraded Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, featuring 15 speakers, a 710-watt amplifier and Dolby Atmos.

In addition, the rear-seat entertainment system, developed under the leadership of Mercedes-Benz's China R&D team, integrates an on-device multimodal vision-language model (VLM), enabling an intelligent personal assistant capable of understanding occupants' needs without requiring a wake word.

Powertrain Upgrade: V8 Performance Meets Intelligent Electrification

Under the bonnet, the SUV is powered by the latest M177 EVO V8 engine paired with an integrated starter-generator (ISG), delivering performance comparable to previous 12-cylinder engines.

The model is also equipped with a new "parking space-to-parking space" navigation-assisted driving system, combining traditional Maybach craftsmanship with the latest driver-assistance technology.

What About Malaysia?

The new Mercedes-Maybach GLS has already appeared on the official Mercedes-Benz Malaysia website, where it is currently listed as "Available soon".

Meanwhile, the current Mercedes-Maybach GLS remains on sale, priced at RM 1,975,888 (on-the-road, without insurance).