2026 Rolls-Royce Cullinan vs. Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 Comparison with Price, Specs, & Photos

The world of ultraluxury SUVs is mostly focused on performance, which is fine if tire-shredding speed is your primary concern. But for those who want an ultraluxury SUV to actually be luxurious, there are a couple of options that make this the priority: the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600. Of course, there are some major differences between these two SUVs, so we’re going to have to take a closer look at what sets them apart.

The first major difference between these two vehicles that we need to discuss is the engine. Like quite a lot of larger luxury SUVs these days, the Maybach is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. This produces plenty of power, and even though performance isn’t the main focus here, the GLS is no slouch. But one of the ways the Cullinan stands out is its 6.7-liter V12 engine. This engine is more powerful than the V8 in the GLS, but it’s not a significant difference, as turbocharging makes up for the displacement deficit in the GLS. But power isn’t why Rolls-Royce uses this engine; it was selected for smoothness. While other manufacturers aim for big power numbers, Rolls-Royce views the smooth and linear application of power as yet another comfort feature. 

Another difference built into the vehicles themselves is the rear doors. The Cullinan uses rear-hinged coach doors, which allow for a larger opening that facilitates a more dignified entry and exit for back seat passengers. The GLS, for all its luxury features, is still based on a mainstream luxury SUV, one that is unlikely to be driven by a chauffeur, so any back seat passengers are likely to be children who don’t require such a large opening. 

Lastly, and by far the most important difference between these two SUVs, is in the area of customization. The Maybach doesn’t match the customization options offered for the Cullinan. In fact, in some areas, it doesn’t even offer as many options as the mainstream GLS. But it’s not just that Rolls-Royce gives you more paint colors to choose from, or more interior trim materials. There are whole categories of options that aren’t available for the GLS, like coach lines, custom wheel colors, multiple colors for the interior, and options for the headliner. Essentially, the Cullinan is made with the idea that no two are exactly the same, and the GLS simply isn’t.