Mercedes-Benz GLS580 X167 Body Kit Review - Maybach Upgrade

Transforming Your Mercedes-Benz GLS580 X167 with a Maybach Body Kit

For Mercedes-Benz GLS580 X167 owners looking to elevate their vehicle's presence, a Maybach-style body kit and aero parts offer a significant aesthetic upgrade. This modification goes beyond mere appearance, impacting the vehicle's overall stance and potentially its functionality. This guide delves into the crucial aspects to consider when undertaking such a transformation, drawing insights from real-world applications to ensure a successful and satisfying result.

Genuine Grille vs. Aftermarket: A Critical Choice

The grille selection is paramount when installing a Maybach body kit. While aftermarket options can reduce costs, opting for a genuine grille ensures superior integration and functionality. The primary advantage of a genuine Maybach grille lies in its seamless incorporation of the radar sensor cover. This is vital for the optimal performance of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow. Aftermarket grilles often feature makeshift solutions for sensor coverage, increasing the risk of malfunction during inclement weather. However, it's important to note that even with genuine components, extreme weather can still affect sensor performance due to accumulated dirt or ice.

Key Considerations for Body Kit Installation

When undertaking a body kit installation, several details require careful attention to ensure compliance and aesthetic harmony:

1. License Plate Mount: Inadequate installation can lead to legal issues. Ensure the mount is compliant with local regulations and, ideally, color-matched to the vehicle's body for a clean finish.
2. Emblem Selection: A genuine Maybach grille typically includes the Maybach logo. For the hood emblem, owners can choose between the Mercedes-Benz star or a Maybach logo. It's important to be aware that a specific genuine Maybach hood emblem for the GLS model may not be available, often necessitating an aftermarket option. Similarly, rear bumper badging (GLS600 or Maybach) usually requires aftermarket parts or incurs additional costs for genuine upgrades.
3. Wheel Size Adjustment: A Maybach aesthetic pairs well with larger wheels, typically ranging from 21 to 23 inches. If you intend to reuse your current tires, maintaining your existing wheel size is the most cost-effective approach. However, upgrading to 23-inch wheels will necessitate the purchase of new tires, adding to the overall project cost.

Side Steps and Door Sills: Completing the Maybach Identity

The Maybach transformation extends to the side profile with the addition of side steps and door sills. High-quality side steps are not merely attached but are painted to match the vehicle's scheme. For a Maybach look, the two-tone design of the bumpers is often extended to the side skirts, creating a cohesive visual flow. Upon opening the doors, genuine Maybach door sills can be installed on all four doors, further accentuating the vehicle's luxurious appeal and reinforcing its Maybach identity.

Interior Enhancements for a Unified Luxury Feel

The interior can also be upgraded to complement the exterior Maybach styling. Front seat back covers can be replaced with a more integrated design, moving away from simple elastic attachments. Piano black trim pieces, often integrated into the seatbacks, enhance the Maybach ambiance. While these interior elements contribute significantly to the overall luxury feel, it's important to note that many premium interior trim components, like the piano lines, are typically sourced from aftermarket suppliers to achieve the desired Maybach aesthetic.