Mercedes-Maybach EQS 'redefines the luxury SUV'
First full-electric Maybach is a large, lavish SUV shown in near-production guise at Munich showMercedes-Benz claims to be “completely redefining the luxury SUV of the future” with a near-final version of the all-new Mercedes-Maybach EQS unveiled at the Munich motor show today.
Dubbed the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS, but designated a “near-production” vehicle, this is the first all-electric car built under the hallowed Maybach moniker.
It was unveiled alongside a host of other new EQ-based models including the similarly production-oriented Mercedes-Benz EQG G-Wagen 4x4 off-roader concept.
Before the Maybach EQS reaches production, a less-extravagant (but still high-end) Mercedes-Benz EQS model range is now confirmed as ready to “go into series production in 2022”.
Featuring the same three-in-one Hyperscreen set-up as the EQS and EQE sedans, with which it shares its EVA2 platform, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS has a circa-600km range (WLTP), with powertrain and battery pack density specifics to come.
The focus of the Maybach EQS concept is the exterior and interior design, the former featuring a bold two-tone finish.
Like all EVs, the lack of a front-mounted engine and transmission tunnel meant the designers had scope to push the boundaries of conventional design.
The result is a more dynamic-looking vehicle with pumped wheel-arches, a low front-end and flowing lines without edges or breaks designed create a seamless, high-end luxury look.
Phrases like “expressive surface modelling” and “muscular shoulders” are bandied about by Mercedes’ creative corps and there’s plenty of chrome on show, the front-end featuring signature Maybach pinstripes with chrome plating.
The rear-end follows the EQ electric vehicle design tradition of a full-width LED tail-light design with 3D helix patterning.
The chrome roof spoiler also packs plenty of visual punch, as do massive 24-inch alloy wheels.
“The futuristic design consists of an emotional integration of surfaces and shapes. The front, with its progressive Maybach grille, follows the principle of integration and gives the brand a completely new appearance,” said Mercedes design boss Gorden Wagener.
“In conjunction with the new-style aerodynamic SUV proportions, we’re completely redefining the luxury SUV of the future.”
Inside, the Maybach EQS is designed to mimic “an elegant yacht” and gets a bespoke version of the top-spec EQ models’ Hyperscreen set-up that almost spans the entire width of the dashboard.
While the front compartment features premium seats inspired by the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class limousine, with all the expected accoutrements, it’s the dual business-class rear seats that will hold most appeal for prospective buyers.
As an SUV with a taller roof than equivalent top-spec luxury sedans, the Maybach EQS allows for more seat height and lets “passenger’s feet float above the ‘faux fur’ floor covering” according to the car-maker.
There’s a floating centre console that hovers “like a continuous ribbon from the cockpit to the rear seats”, and the powered rear seats deliver high levels of adjustability.
There’s even a vase insert for floral decorations and a large storage area for “individual equipment options such as folding tables, a box of champagne goblets or a refrigerated compartment”.
The decor was inspired by the fashion world, says Maybach, while ultra-high levels of craftsmanship,
extraordinary details and high-quality materials are claimed to deliver a “new level of exclusivity”.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
