Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600, AMG S 63 E Performance to Launch in India on May 22: What We Know So Far

Around four or five years back, the automotive world caught its first glimpse of German carmaker Mercedes-Benz's Maybach GLS 600 – the luxury version of the carmaker's GLS flagship SUV – at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. Following this, the ultra-luxury Maybach GLS 600 made its India debut in June 2021, competing with brands like Range Rover, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce. Whereas the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 is due to receive a facelift, the AMG S 63 4MATIC E Performance luxury saloon will be reintroduced in the Indian market in a new guise. The date for the launch of both luxury vehicles is set for May 22, 2024. Yes, you read that right!

The top-end Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 and AMG S 63 E Performance vehicles will not be just luxed-up versions of the respective standard models but also make more power. Here's what we know so far:

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz to Launch 3 New Electric Vehicles in India Following Record Q1 2024 EV Sales

Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600: What We Know So Far

The GLS 600 is Maybach’s second offering in India and the first SUV in its portfolio, currently priced at Rs 2.96 crore (ex-showroom). Upon arrival, the facelifted version of the Maybach-treated GLS 600 will continue with the same grille, albeit with larger vertical chrome pinstripes. Besides, the new version will get redesigned bumpers, revised headlamps and tail-lamps, as well as freshly designed 22-inch alloy wheels. 

Inside, the changes will be restricted to the steering wheel, while the overall cabin layout along with a Manufaktur leather interior will remain as is. Other interior bits include a 27-speaker Burmester sound system, dual screens, rear infotainment screens, and ambient lighting. Overseas, the model comes in both 4- and 6-seat configurations. Let's see which of these India gets. 

Under the hood, the same 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid motor will be offered with the 2024 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600, probably with a different state of tune. The output of this engine is rated at 557bhp and 730Nm of torque, while the extra 22bhp and 250Nm of torque come from an integrated 48V starter-generator. Power is sent to all four wheels through a nine-speed gearbox – coupled with an all-wheel-drive system. 

Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance: What We Know So Far

On the other hand, the new AMG S 63 E Performance will be equipped with the same engine as the GLS 600 – a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol. However, the former will be paired with a plug-in hybrid system, which consists of a rear-axle-mounted asynchronous electric motor and a 13.1kWh lithium-ion battery. The result is a combined output of 802bhp and 1,430Nm, making it the most powerful S-Class yet. Whereas the GLS 600 can sprint 0 to 100km/h in a claimed time of 4.9 seconds, the plug-in hybrid powertrain propels the AMG S 63 E to 100km/h from a standstill in 3.3 seconds, thanks to the 4Matic+ system. 

As for its range, the AMG S 63 flagship sedan claims an electric-only range of 33km. Besides the plug-in hybrid setup, you will get adaptive AMG Ride Control suspension, active rear-axle steering, high-performance brakes, and AMG modes, among other technical bits. 

Speaking of its AMG-specific features, the new Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 will sport the AMG-fied grille and 21-inch wheels, as well as twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Creature comforts will include a 12.8-inch MBUX infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, four-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. 

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz to Launch 3 New Electric Vehicles in India Following Record Q1 2024 EV Sales

The upcoming Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 and the AMG S 63 E Performance will be imported to India as completely built-up units. Price-wise, the former is expected to go beyond Rs 3 crore, whereas the latter could sit around Rs 3 crore–Rs 3.5 crore ballpark. The prices are ex-showroom.