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The global shift towards larger and more luxurious SUVs continues unabated, particularly in regions such as Asia, the wealthy Emirates, and the United States. Affluent clients are in search of superior automotive luxury, and the Maybach EQS 680 SUV fulfills that demand with electric ease.
While the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV features a robust electric powertrain, this aspect takes a backseat in the vehicle’s overall luxury focus. Many buyers with an extensive fleet typically already have access to various drivetrain options. The emphasis is largely on luxury and exclusivity, both of which the Maybach EQS 680 SUV delivers in spades. Mercedes-CEO Ola Källenius states, “The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV merges our leadership in digital innovation and electrification with our commitment to the luxury market. The first all-electric model from Mercedes-Maybach offers unparalleled comfort and unique details that only we provide.”
Although the EQS design may appear modest for grand occasions—such as entering an opera house, a chic restaurant, or strolling along a promenade—numerous signature Maybach features help elevate its presence. With a starting price of at least 200,000 euros, it bears a resemblance to the standard Mercedes EQS SUV, necessitating subtle Maybach enhancements for differentiation. This is also true for the interior, which feels more like an upgraded trim level rather than an entirely unique model. The dark leather on the seats, panels, and rich carpets is visually stunning, provides excellent tactile appeal, and offers remarkable seating comfort. However, unlike other luxury counterparts like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan or Bentley Bentayga, the EQS SUV adopts a more modern and technical interior style, akin to other high-end SUVs. Despite the generous interior space, the 5.13-metre length doesn’t exactly convey an extravagant ambiance. A model with an extended XL wheelbase for more legroom would seem appropriate for a Maybach; instead, one finds enhanced comfort, premium materials, and a desire for greater rear-space indulgence, beyond the current 3.12-metre wheelbase.
The cabin’s luxury suite impresses with features like adjustable rear seats, climate control, and massage functions, making every journey enjoyable. Depending on the program chosen, calf relaxation and heating in the shoulder and neck areas invite users to drift off to sleep. While the small fridge stocked with silver champagne flutes in the expansive centre console raises eyebrows, the dual rear screens, tablet entertainment, and outstanding sound isolation are essential. The Maybach EQS ensures an almost silent ride, thanks to additional soundproofing and a leather partition that separates luggage from passengers. This electric SUV stands out as a true silent cruiser, enhancing its appeal.
The comfort level is remarkable, even with the imposing 275/45 R21 wheels, and the rear-axle steering contributes to the EQS’s surprising agility. This feature is particularly useful in Europe or Asia, where narrow city streets prevail. The rear steering can pivot up to 4.5 degrees, enhancing maneuverability. Weighing in at a hefty 3,075 kilograms, this luxury SUV exceeds even the 2.9-tonne Rolls-Royce Spectre. Although the rear seating is exceptionally fine, someone must still take the wheel. Drivers find that the comfort up front nearly rivals that of the passengers, yet the controls on the steering wheel, which are heavily touch-sensitive, present a learning curve, and the Hyperscreen can feel overwhelming at night. However, once accustomed to the three individual displays, they significantly elevate the sense of luxury during evening drives. Luggage space is compromised due to the positioning of the rear seats and the leather-lined partition, offering only 440 litres behind the automatic liftgate—a somewhat disappointing measure of trunk space. The payload limit also poses a challenge at just 425 kilograms.
When the focus returns to the road, drivers can relish a smooth ride paired with plenty of power. Equipped with two electric motors (permanently excited synchronous machines) on both front and rear axles, the vehicle delivers 484 kW / 658 PS and an impressive 950 Nm of torque. While it may not compete with high-performance machines boasting 800, 900, or even over 1,000 PS, the power provided is still sufficient to accelerate this three-ton crossover readily. Unfortunately, the top speed is limited to just 210 km/h, leaving many to feel overtaken by standard vehicles like a VW Golf on the highway. However, the impressive electric range of over 600 kilometres, facilitated by the 118 kWh battery pack, is attractive. In realistic conditions, especially considering seasonal variations, the range will likely be closer to 500 kilometres before a charging break is needed. Any dissatisfaction about the absence of 800-volt charging capabilities, which would allow for charging speeds exceeding 250 or even 300 kW, diminishes once one sinks into the massage seats. Charging capacity is limited to a maximum of 200 kW, which is unfortunate.
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