The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the top-end of Mercedes-Benz’s flagship model range, adds the exclusivity of the Maybach brand experience to the plethora of high-tech solutions present in every S-Class. With around 60,000 examples delivered worldwide, the Maybach S-Class has revitalised the Maybach brand since its introduction in 2015. The model had its highest sales in 2019, with around 12,000 units sold worldwide.
The 2021 Maybach S-Class model offers more space, exclusive design elements and cutting edge technologies not found in any other S-Class models. Presented in a classic three-box sedan layout, it has a wheelbase that is 18-centimetres longer than the longest variant of the standard S-Class range. The extra length translates to wider rear doors than on any current S-class model.
External options available on the new Maybach S-Class include electrically operated rear doors, a two-tone paint finish with dividing line (all applied by hand) and the Digital Light. The latter is an innovative headlamp technology that facilitates new functions such as the projection of guidelines or warning symbols onto the road ahead. Each headlamp has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors.
The interior design of the new Maybach S-Class incorporates the “floating” aesthetics introduced in the latest generation of S-Class models. As a result, the sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape.
Rosé gold, the Maybach brand’s signature colour, and amethyst glow are offered for the first time as optional colour themes with the active ambience lighting. The animated light band, comprising a total of 253 LEDs, has intelligent comfort and safety functions. The “Rear Welcome” interior light show also makes its debut on the new Maybach S-Class. This adaptive rear lighting system enables the occupants to adjust the brightness, the size and position of the light spot. There is also a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light.
As the Maybach brand has always targeted the chauffeur-driven limousine market, every car carrying the Maybach emblem prioritises the rear-passenger experience. The new Maybach S-Class is no exception. In addition to the extra legroom, it comes with a bouquet of new luxury features. It has large areas of trim on the front seats. High-quality wood surrounds encase the rear of the front seats’ backrests. The optional First-Class Rear package offers a similarly striking area of trim positioned between the two rear passengers.
With the standard-fit Executive seats, the occupant can adjust the seat surface and backrest independently. The footrest on the front seat and the electrically extending leg rest combine to create a continuous, comfortable reclining surface for a pleasant sleeping position. The adjustment travel of the leg rest has been extended by approximately 50 mm compared to the preceding series. The Seating Comfort package now includes a massage function in the calf rest, along with the neck and shoulder heating.
The second generation of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) makes its debut in the Maybach S-Class. The MBUX networks with a wide range of vehicle systems and sensor data to simplify the control of vehicle and comfort functions. Input is done through the displays on the five large screens.
MBUX Interior Assist is available as an option. It recognises eye-direction, hand gestures and the body language of multiple occupants, using 3D laser cameras in the roof liner, to enable automatic vehicle functions. For example, the belt extender for the outer rear seats automatically offers up the seat belt when the system recognises the occupant’s intention to reach for the belt by their hand movements. The exit warning function has also been extended and is able to register that a rear passenger intends to leave the vehicle.
Noise cancellation, which is quite impressive in the standard variants of the current S-Class range, is taken up a notch on the new Maybach S-Class. Primarily focused on the rear section, additional absorbent foam has been installed around the rear wheel arches. The fixed triangle windows under the C-pillars have thicker laminated glass as they are in close proximity to rear passengers’ heads. Noise-optimised tyres with foam absorbers are available as an option. Active road noise compensation (AFGK) makes its company-wide debut on the Maybach S-Class. The system reduces unwanted low-frequency noises using counter-phased sound waves emitted by the bass speakers of the Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system.
Safety has been given particular attention on the new Maybach S-Class, especially in the rear section. During severe frontal collisions, the optional rear airbag can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seat belt wearing rear occupants. They also benefit from an automatic seatbelt extender for the first time, making the process of fastening a seatbelt more convenient. The belt extender is integrated into the “Executive” seat’s adjustable backrest and, therefore, always in the right position for the passenger.
New and extended assistance systems relieve driver stress as the situation requires when adapting the vehicle speed, controlling distance, steering and lane-changing. This system is designed to enable the driver to stay alert for longer. When danger threatens, driving assistance systems can respond according to the situation, mitigating the severity of possible collisions, or even avoid them.
In the Middle East region, the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4matic will be introduced. Powered by a V12 engine with an output of 630 hp (463 kW), the S 680 4Matic will be the last twelve-cylinder engine available in Mercedes-Benz portfolio. All-wheel drive and the Airmatic air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ are standard equipment.
Dynamic Select enables the driver to individually modify the powertrain’s characteristics, the ESP system, the suspension and the steering. Dynamic Select has a dedicated Maybach driving mode that focuses on ride comfort. Optional rear-axle steering improves manoeuvrability in urban areas by reducing the turning circle. Customers have a choice between two rear-axle steering variants – 4.5° and 10° – which reduces the turning circle to 12.2 or 11.2 metres respectively, compared to the standard 13.1 metres. The optional E-Active Body Control suspension on a 48 V basis uses a stereo camera to scan the road ahead to smooth out undulations. It also gives additional protection in the event of a lateral collision.
For the Middle East region, production of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will begin in June, and the first customers will receive their vehicles in August 2021.
