By Otsile Kadiege

After months of speculation, Mercedes-Maybach has finally laid rumors of a Maybach SL roadster to rest after recently unveiling the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 which gets typical Maybach treatment both in and outside.

Exclusive Maybach styling elements

In keeping with the brand philosophy, the Mercedes-Maybach SL offers a holistic sensory experience. The contours of the brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille are illuminated, as is the finely integrated ‘MAYBACH’ lettering. The distinctive bonnet bears an upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running front to rear along its centre. To further enhance the exclusivity, the obsidian black bonnet is available upon request with the Maybach pattern incorporated in graphite grey uni. This process is very complex and is partly done by hand. First, the bonnet receives a base coat, which is then sanded by hand. The Maybach pattern is then printed onto it. Each part of the process is technically sophisticated and must be executed with the utmost precision. Next, the bonnet is coated with clear matte lacquer, sanded by hand and finally finished with a further coat of clear matte lacquer.

The inside of the headlights is finished with high-quality accenting in rose gold. The dedicated front skirt emphasises the vehicle’s width with horizontal air intakes. The windscreen frame is finished in gleaming chrome. A further chrome insert graces the sill cladding. The Mercedes-Maybach SL runs on 21-inch forged wheels in 5-hole design or multi-spoke design.

The extensively insulated acoustic soft top consists of light black fabric, with the Maybach pattern subtly incorporated in anthracite. The rear is characterised by rear lights with the Maybach signet, a brand-specific rear skirt with chrome trim, a dedicated diffuser design and tailpipe trims with a signature horizontal bar. Behind the seats, an aerodynamically designed double scoop reinforces the individual look. Together with the chrome fin on the bonnet, it gives the two-seater particularly elegant and sporty proportions when viewed from the side, especially with the top down.

Maybach-specific interior equipment and materials

Inside, sustainably tanned, crystal white nappa leather creates an exceptionally exquisite ambience. It features on the door panels, the centre console and on the brand’s signature comfort seats. The seat upholstery has a new floral design. The space behind the seats is also finished in white leather. The galvanised seat backrests and silver chrome trim provide a striking contrast. The fully digital instrument display and the electrically adjustable centre display incorporate the Maybach-specific start-up animations and display styles. Further brand hallmarks are the steering wheel, the stainless-steel pedals and the stainless-steel door sill trims.

Performance

The Maybach SL 680 is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo engine with 430 kW and 800Nm. It’s paired with a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission with adapted accelerator pedal characteristics and a fully variable 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. As standard, the SL 680 is fitted with rear-axle steering and a noise-optimised exhaust system.