since 1976
since 1976
By Lee Pang Seng
TOP flight motoring options just got better with four new alternatives from Mercedes-Benz – a Maybach SUV (sport utility vehicle), an AMG S-Class, an updated premium SUV and a dazzling coupé. You couldn’t ask for a more varied option that panders to the respective tastes, each with a top dollar price to match.
Dream cars need not necessarily be low slung sports cars when you could have a luxuriously equipped SUV with exclusive trimmings to motor along in absolute comfort. Mercedes-Benz has provided just that with its elite Maybach version of the GLS, the S-Class equivalent in the premium SUV category.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC
For those who want more than just an ordinary GLS, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is most definitely the one that would catch the eye. It has all the Maybach touches such as the front bumper with Maybach insignia panels at each end and the Maybach badge on the C-pillars to stamp its exclusivity.
Add on to that the striking front nose grille comprising vertical chrome bars with the Maybach name prominently stated at the top. Moreover, the air inlet grilles are said to form a Maybach pattern and the chrome surround completes the frontal impact. The huge 23-inch Maybach multi-spoke forged alloy wheels are said to combine an exclusive design with motor sport technology.
Other features include the ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes-Maybach pattern, Airmatic package, E-Active Body Control, multibeam LED (light emitting diode), panoramic sliding sunroof, Magic Vision Control and power closing.
The interior sees new design seats that are said to emphasise the Mercedes-Maybach luxurious character. The MANUFAKTUR leather package includes extensive nappa leather upholstery throughout the interior, including upholstery cushions, roof liner and front seat console. The steering wheel is also in nappa leather.
For an added level of comfort, the Maybach GLS comes with multi-contour rear seats, Acoustic Comfort Package, MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment and two USB slots in the rear with 100W charging. It comes equipped with the latest third generation MBUX and MBUX augmented reality for navigation and Premium Package Plus.
It is powered by a 4.0-litre (3982cc) V8 with twin turbo and mild hybrid system; it delivers 404kW (550bhp) at 6000rpm and 730Nm at 2500rpm. Transmission is a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic. This Mercedes-Maybach AWD accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds while its top speed is electronically capped at 250km/h.
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is available from RM1,918,888 on the road without insurance.
Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance
If you want an S-Class with a powerful kick, the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance is right up your alley. It is said to set the benchmark in its segment with an AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with an AMG high-performance battery. Power output is rated at 590kW (802hp) and a massive 1430Nm of torque. This car accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 290km/h.
Standard features include the AMG Ride Control+ air suspension, AMG Active Ride Control roll stabilisation and active rear-axle steering to make it a dynamically exciting car to drive.
The vehicle is equipped with 21-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, AMG high-performance ceramic composite braking system, Digital Light headlamps, AMG Night Package, AMG Exterior Carbon package, AMG-specific radiator grille and darkened, panoramic sliding sunroof. Its price? A cool RM2,238,888 on the road without insurance.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC
This is the updated version of the previous GLS and continues to reflect its status as the S-Class of SUVs by setting new standards for a large luxury SUV. It now comes with a more striking radiator grille that comprises four louvres that are galvanised in high-quality Silver Shadow sheen. The rear also holds up well with the three horizontal blocks rear light clusters.
The AMG line exterior features 22-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels and an aluminium-look, illuminated running boards with rubber studs. In addition, the vehicle includes Magic Vision Control, power closing, ambient lighting with projection of brand logo, Multibeam LED headlamps and panoramic sliding sunroof.
Like the previous model, the latest Mercedes-Benz GLS is a seven-seater with multicontour rear seats featuring rough leather/leather upholstery. Other features are the brown open-pore walnut wood trim, multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather and air vents in chrome slats. The GLS includes the latest generation of MBUX, MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System, Burmester surround sound system and Energising Air Control. Rear passengers enjoy the Rear Comfort Package Plus and two USB slots with 100W charging.
The GLS 450 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre (2999cc) six-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 275kW (375hp) at 5800rpm and 500Nm at 1800rpm. It is an all-wheel drive with a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. Its price is a few ringgit shy of a million at RM999,888 on the road without insurance.
CLE 300 4MATIC Coupé
This two-door coupé was made available as a media preview car with the launch to be made in the coming months. It is meant to excite the senses with its “aesthetic soul’ for those who love such cars. The CLE 300 is said to be the first Mercedes-Benz model in Malaysia to feature Digital Light headlamps with projection function.
It comes as an AMG Line model with Night package, 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof and Driving Assistance Package Plus. Interior features include climatised front seats, Burmester 3D Surround System and Easy Entry function.
The CLE 300 coupé is powered by a 2.0-litre (1999cc) in-line four turbo that delivers 190kW (258hp) at 5800rpm and 400Nm from 2000 to 3200rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds and has a capped top speed of 250km/h. Transmission is the 9G-Tronic automatic. This CLE 300 coupé is estimated to be priced from RM526,000 on the road without insurance.
