Mercedes-Maybach S-Class

Mercedes-Benz India has introduced the new-generation Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Limousine in the country. Prices for the S-Class Maybach start at Rs. 2.5 crore for the S580, going up to Rs. 3.2 crore (all prices, ex-showroom, India) for the S680 4MATIC. While the former is locally assembled at the automaker's Chakan plant, the latter arrives in India as a completely built unit (CBU). The new S-Class Maybach made its global debut in November 2020 and finally arrives in the country joining the new S-Class. The new offering builds on the standard S-Class and kicks up luxury and opulence by quite a few levels offering more legroom, more creature comforts as well as a more powerful powertrain. Mercedes-Benz India has also confirmed that the S680 is sold out in India till 2023.

Compared to the standard S-Class, the new-generation Mercedes-Maybach S-Class gets a 180 mm longer wheelbase with most of the added length going towards increasing legroom for rear-seat passengers. The car is nearly 5.5 metres in length and gets extended rear doors that can be operated electrically. The driver can also operate them from the front seat with the 'doormen' feature. The rear also gets individually adjustable bucket seats as standard that can be adjusted between 19 and 44 degrees, with a deployable leg rest on the passenger side.

Compared to the standard version, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class gets a distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin, a Maybach grille with vertical slats and chrome surrounds. The car also gets LED Digital Lights. The model also carries the Maybach logo on the C-pillar. The signature dual-tone paint scheme remains as an option on the offering. The car rides on 20-inch Maybach forged alloy wheels that get the retro-monoblock design, while the tyres are noise-optimised. There's also the option to upgrade to 21-inch wheels.

Tech upgrades on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class include a multi-contour massage for every seat, heated armrests, door panels, seat ventilation, and even a calf massager for rear seat footrest. Customers can also opt for the Executive Rear Seat package that includes wood trims, full-length centre console, deployable tray tables, rear-seat champagne cooler and custom solid metal flutes. The model gets the new-generation MBUX infotainment system that includes the 12.8-inch display at the front and centre, a 12.3-inch digital instrument console, two 11.6-inch rear-seat entertainment monitors, and a removable tablet that's nestled between the rear seats.

Furthermore, the new S-Class Maybach becomes the first car in India to get Level 2 Autonomous Driving with Evasive Steering Assist and Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function. There's also Nappa leather upholstery, Burmester sound system, 13 airbags including two beltbags and rear airbags, optional rear-axle steering, and the Airmatic air suspension.

Power on the new-generation Mercedes-Maybach S580 comes from the new 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged engine with the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. The motor develops 496 bhp and 700 Nm of peak torque, with a 9-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels. The Mercedes-Maybach S680 gets the more powerful 6.0-litre V12 motor that develops 496 bhp and 900 Nm of peak torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via AWD while 0-100 kmph comes up in 4.5 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 kmph. Both engines comply with the upcoming BS6 Stage 2 norms, which the company says makes it the first automaker in India to do so. The S-Class Maybach will take on the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Bentley Flying Spur in the segment.