We’re seeing the first pictures coming in of a fresh iteration of the legendary S-Class, this time in its most luxurious avatar - boldly flashing the Maybach tag.
The iconic Art Deco Maybach logo illuminates its way across the new Mercedes-Maybach S class, a saloon that ferries around its precious passenger cargo, in what looks like a floating private lounge. The launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is somewhat emblematic as it coincides with the ongoing 140-year celebrations of the German carmaker, with both names, ‘Maybach’ and ‘S-Class’, enjoying their own status and clout in luxury culture.
Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, refers to this as “the biggest launch programme in our history.” The saloon also sees the debut of the Mercedes-Benz Operating System.
The car features a grille that is 20 per cent larger, which gives it a distinct personality. There is a Maybach badge on the C-pillar, as well as the iconic bonnet three-pointed star, which is glamorously illuminated. The Maybach wording above the front grille is illuminated too, while the double-star headlights feature accents of rose gold for that extra opulence
Go closer towards the silver wheels, and at the centre you will see the Mercedes-Benz star, mounted on ball bearings to keep it upright always, even when the wheels are turning. Little design touches that go a long way, indeed!
Akin to a private jet cabin, or a yacht, the car features a restrained but tech-filled cabin, as immersive as it gets, combining the visual effect of ambient light in 64 options, the texture of open-pore wood panels, the futurism of large digital surfaces, and the cocooning effect of plush leather-free upholstery, combined with natural-fibre textiles.
MBUX Superscreen is immersive and futuristic, and the Maybach S-Class enjoys the very same immersive tech experience, replacing the dashboard by one large glass surface, combining its 36.6 and 31.2 centimetre central and passenger display, adjoining the third 31.2 centimetre driver display - small luxe touch again, the dials are finished in rose gold, while a gold Maybach logo makes its presence felt on the driver display, differentiating it from other standard models.
A car like this, as you would expect, is a passenger’s car, so the backseat experience needs a deep dive. The rear cabin features two 31.3 centimetre displays, individual remote controls, and cameras for video calls. Yes, we did look for the famous champagne compartment in this one too, and it is still there, with silver-plated Robbe & Berking champagne flutes in tow, by the generously reclining executive seats that could rival an airliner’s first-class cabin, replete with heating and massage features. A smooth ride is promised with the Maybach drive mode turned on, which softens the suspension significantly.
As for the engine options, depending on the market, we will see the Maybach S-Class with either a V12 or an enhanced V8. India, as it turns out, will be getting the 4.0-litre V8 variant promising 612 hp of power and 850 Nm of torque.
And for those who’d like to take the indulgence one step further and personalise their Maybach S-Class, the Manufaktur Made to Measure lets you choose your bespoke finishes, leather, paint, and even stitches.