Maybach GLS

Segment
SUV

Unlike most tuners, Carlex Design is known to practice restraint when modifying high-end cars. However, when it comes to the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, that subtlety flies out the window. The example seen below wears a rather peculiar color combo, pairing burnt orange with brown paintwork. It's a strange combo and does nothing for the already-extroverted appearance of the ultra-luxury SUV.

Thankfully, the tuner has decided against fitting this German behemoth with a tacky body kit. The only exterior embellishments worn by this Maybach are bespoke 23-inch multi-spoke wheels, which cost €11,000 (approx. $12,000).

The Three-pointed star no longer sits on the bonnet with pride. Instead, Carlex has placed its logo on the front fenders to let other road users know this is no ordinary Maybach. Excluding the wheels, all the exterior add-ons weigh cost a hefty €15,000 (approx. $16,400).

The interior boasts the most significant changes. Already a sumptuous place to be, Carlex has stripped the interior of its factory upholstery and trimmings and replaced them with acres of clay-colored leather. Admittedly, it looks beautiful, with the seats receiving gorgeous embroidery detailing on the backrest and bolsters. The headrests are adorned with the Carlex Design logo. All this work comes in at an eye-watering €33,000 ( approx. $36,150).

That's a lot of money, but it's a lot cheaper than the custom interior package the company revealed for the Ferrari 458 Italia.

Nothing else has changed, with the GLS retaining its classy Black Piano Lacquer "Flowing Lines" wood inlays. Overall, the cabin enhancements are far more successful than the polarizing exterior.

This isn't the first time Carlex Design has treated the posh GLS to a two-tone exterior finish. Last year, the Polish firm revealed a rather vulgar Maybach with ostentatious turquoise paintwork. The interior is even more distasteful, with a bright mint green finish applied to the upholstery.

Carlex Design does not mention any performance upgrades, but the stock 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 should provide ample motivation. With total outputs of 550 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, this 6,085-lb beast will heave itself to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and won't stop accelerating until it runs into the 130 mph electronic limiter.

If you want the complete Carlex Design treatment, the entire package will set you back €56,050 (approx. $61,300). All in all, you're looking at spending $231,000 - and that's before you've fitted any options. But before you do that, you might want to wait for the new model to arrive, as Mercedes revealed a facelifted version earlier this month.