Mercedes reveals ultra-luxe SUV and U.S. studio for custom vehicles - Detroit Free Press

What the report says

The Detroit Free Press reported that Mercedes-Benz unveiled its 2027 Mercedes-Maybach GLS in Beverly Hills, California, on Monday, July 20, alongside a new Los Angeles studio intended to bring the company’s Manufaktur customization program to U.S. buyers. The vehicle is positioned as Mercedes’ most luxurious SUV, with pricing expected by the Free Press to begin far above $150,000 when it reaches buyers late this year or in early 2027.

According to the Free Press, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 is aimed at continued American demand for high-end SUVs. It is described as using a twin-turbo hybrid V8 rated at 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. The model removes the standard GLS third row to create a four-passenger layout with more rear legroom, heated and cooled rear seats, dedicated climate features, massage functions and power footrests. Other details include available two-tone paint, 23-inch wheels with upright floating logos, an illuminated hood star and Maybach-themed trim.

The new Mercedes-Benz Studio Los Angeles is the brand’s first U.S. design studio of its kind, joining similar spaces in cities such as Munich, Singapore, Delhi, Toronto, Seoul and Tokyo, the newspaper reported. Customers can work with design advisers to choose bespoke colors, leathers, finishes and other materials through Manufaktur, a program long offered to top European customers.

Mercedes-Maybach chief Markus Bauer told the Free Press that the GLS responds to U.S. interest in more luxurious SUVs. He also said up to one-third of Mercedes’ U.S. customers could eventually choose the top “Made to Measure” level of Manufaktur customization.