By Otsile Kadiege

Mercedes-Maybach represents the ultimate in sophistication, the finest quality materials, phenomenal craftsmanship, comfort and state-of-the-art technology. Enter the all-new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. The latest iteration of the luxo-barge is easily identifiable with its unique exterior design. As mentioned above, the newcomer is littered with comfort features like comfort rear doors, high-quality wooden materials and high-end tech like comfort rear doors.

Exclusive exterior

Tell-tales setting the Mercedes-Maybach apart from the rest of the S-Class range ischrome detailing all-round the vehicle. Upfront, the high-end luxury saloon features a prominent chrome grille with vertical slats flanked by Digital Light headlamps. Lower front bumper air inlets also have a chrome effect.

Exclusivity is emphasised by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar. In some countries the brand logo is illuminated. The side view is characterised by flush-fitted door handles and it’s available with large wheels ranging between 19- to 21-inch which are specially designed, and reserved for this model including the legendary monoblocks. The exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be enhanced by a two-tone paint. Compared to the long-wheelbase S-class, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is 18cm longer.

Luxurious high-tech interior

The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is based on the completely new interior design of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The large areas of trim on the front seats are a new feature in the Mercedes-Maybach. High-quality wood surrounds encase the rear of the front seat backrests, giving the impression of generous lounge seats. If the First-Class Rear is specified, a similarly striking area of trim is positioned between the two rear passengers.

With Active road noise compensation, the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class becomes even quieter. In a similar way to headphones with noise suppression, the system reduces unwanted low-frequency noises using counter-phased sound waves. The bass speakers of the Burmester® high-end 4D surround sound system are used for sound reproduction.

The visual highlight in the interior is the large central display in portrait format. It is ergonomically well positioned, as the screen is within easy touch and vision between the driver and front passenger. The portrait format also allows longer lists to be displayed. The central display features OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology as standard. Compared to LCD screens, the advantages of this technology are a better black level, even stronger contrasts and lower energy consumption.

The innovative MBUX takes driving pleasure to new heights with high resolution touchscreens or voice controlled operation for ease of use and infotainment. This system is designed to adapt to your comfort and learn your needs over time, setting the car temperature, your music, to even releasing the signature Maybach Mood fragrance at the time you set it to.

Every Maybach dons the centre console with the brands signature waterfall design, the coveted Manufaktur backrest trim in wood, comfort doors that open at the touch of a button and the automatic seatbelt feeder that comes to you as you take your seat. The calf massage and heated neck cushions then take this marvel of wealth in motion to a whole other calibre of ultimate luxury.

Driving assistance systems

The basic functions of the systems in the Driving Assistance package included as standard can be found here. The main new features of the systems in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class include Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Active Blind Spot Assist and exit warning function and Evasive Steering Assist to name a few.

Performance

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is available with a choice of two powerplants – S580 4Matic and S680 4Matic. Powering the S580 4Matic is a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine making 370kW and 700Nm. The engine is paired with a 48V on board electrical system making an additional 15 kW and 200Nm. The S680 4Matic is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine developing 450kW and 900Nm. All models channel their power to all four wheels via the automaker’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system and all engines are paired to a 9G-Tronic transmission.

Pricing

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class range is priced as follows:

S580 4Matic – R3,507,000

S680 4Matic – R4,454,000.