Maybach name makes a return
But this time around it’s a derivative of Mercedes’ S-Class
MAYBACH never took off as a standalone luxury marque but it’s been reintroduced as a sub-brand showcasing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz exclusivity and comfort.
Making its world premiere simultaneously at the Los Angeles motor show and Auto Guangzhou in China this week, the new Mercedes-Maybach S600 is a stretched version of the long-wheelbase SClass and comes with additional features to surprise and delight well-heeled buyers.
This tycoon-spec S-Class is the replacement for the ill-fated Maybach 57 and Maybach 62 sedans, which found little traction with buyers in the ultra-luxury segment. The new car will be aimed at both limousine-hire companies as well as rich businessmen, and is expected to be especially popular in China where it’s common for moneyed members of society to have their own personal driver.
Some of the features that distinguish it from the standard-production models include extra spaciousness, special seats and lavishly designed, prestigious interiors offering extensive scope for individu- alisation.
At 5 453mm long it rides on a wheelbase 20cm longer than the long-wheelbase S-Class and is driven by the same 390kW 6-litre V12 biturbo engine. It is claimed to have the quietest rear seat of any production limousine in the world.
In combination with the standard Chauffeur Package, the rear seats recline like Lazyboy chairs so executives can rest in businessclass comfort, while there’s a voice amplifier that eases communication between driver and rear-seat passengers.
Apart from its extra length the S600 Maybach’s key distinguishing feature from a regular long-wheelbase S-Class is the shortened rear door. This places the rear seats beyond the door cutout which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M in-
“In the S-Class segment, customers have very high expectations”
side an arched triangle – adorns the C-pillars on both sides.
Cabin luxury is further enhanced with items like Maybachembossed nappa leather armrests and an analogue clock with an IWC design.
“In the S-Class segment in particular, customers have very high expectations with regard to exclusivity and individuality, says Mercedes Marketing and Sales manager Ola Källenius.
“Mercedes-Maybach enables us to fulfil these desires in the exclusive top segment of the market”.
The market launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S600 is scheduled for February 2015, to be followed by the all-wheel-drive Mercedes-Maybach S500 4Matic in June.