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The Mercedes-Maybach GLS feels like a perfectly credible rival for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga. It offers a more comfortable ride than the two British heavyweights as well as more high-tech driver assistance and better infotainment. However, some may be unable to look beyond the fact that it is simply a dressed-up GLS. And at this end of the market, image counts.

It has taken quite a while, but Mercedes has finally come up with an answer to the booming success of the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls Royce Cullinan. A year after the launch of the second-generation GLS, the company is upgrading its largest SUV with Maybach prestige to create this: the Mercedes-Maybach GLS.

As opposed to the just-revealed Maybach S-Class, the luxury GLS retains its original dimensions and wheelbase. However, it also piles on lots of glitz and glamour, and some spectacular design touches.

As you’d expect with an SUV focused on refinement and comfort, the steering is very light and the air suspension soft. All of the systems are optimised for maximum comfort in the rear seats, such as the e-active body control, which is designed to eliminate even the faintest hint of roll through corners.

The Maybach really does cocoon you from the outside world. And when you’ve seen enough of it you can simply roll up the electric sunblind for even greater privacy.