Test Drive: Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Night Series

The interior of the Maybach EQS SUV Night Series reflects a meticulous choice of materials and craftsmanship. Econyl carpeting lines the lower surfaces and vegetable-tanned black Nappa leather with contrast stitching is used for the seating and upper touch points. A matte-finished, natural-grain, dark gray, herringbone pattern wood offers an elegant trim that’s more understated than it might sound. The seats are infinitely adjustable and incredibly comfortable for the driver and passengers equally as it’s a car equally fit to be driven and driven in. The back seats feature ample leg room, reclining seats, leg rests and full-body massagers. Mercedes-Benz is among the manufacturers taking advantage of the opportunities to create larger interior spaces without making the overall car bigger because of the simplified architecture EVs have. As is developed for each new Mercedes-Maybach, the EQS SUV has a custom scent gently distributed through the air conditioning system. Called “No. 12 MOOD Ebony” it has subtle freesia and powder top notes on a sandalwood and clove base and evokes optimism, freshness and sensuality.

As an EQ, this car isn’t just electric. EQ has come to represent advanced technology in all the ways available to a vehicle. The Maybach EQS SUV has large OLED displays integrated under a single glass surface that spans the full width of the dashboard. The central display features Mercedes’ newest “zero layer” interface that’s centered around navigation and dynamically adjusts access to the functions its driver uses most often. Augmented reality is also featured on both this display and in the large, color heads-up driver display to overlay navigational graphics that scale in size to show exactly where the turn is as it’s approached. Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles there are various drive settings to control the steering, suspension and acceleration, however as a Maybach it also includes a mode that’s optimized for the passengers’ optimal comfort. And regardless of the mode you’re in, as an EV with two motors pushing 700 lb-ft of torque and yielding 649 hp, it’s real fast with a seamless delivery of torque. The driving experience can be equally thrilling as it can be serene. An advanced suspension system, coupled with the battery pack’s low center of gravity, ensures precise handling and stability. The inclusion of comprehensive driver-assistance features enhances safety and convenience, ensuring an engaging yet effortless drive, regardless of the setting.