The all-new and opulent Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is still in its testing phase, although its unveiling should take place in the coming months seen as how the brand new S-Class is already with us. While there are different types of S-Class prototypes still out there, like the Mercedes-AMG S63 for example, we’re pretty confident that this particular vehicle, spotted by one of our readers in Germany, is the long-wheelbase Maybach flagship.
The biggest clue isn’t actually the size
of the rear pillar, but the cutout of the rear door, which is straighter than
on the regular S-Class, whose rear door curves around the rear wheel arch due
to its smaller size. It also lacks the third rear-window that’s incorporated on
the S-Class’ door.
Unlike its shorter wheelbase siblings, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class might actually retain a V12 engine, although with a mild-hybrid system. The reason we say “might” is because the 2021 Maybach GLS is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 550 horses and 729 Nm of torque, and it’s the GLS 600, not 500 or 550.
Powertrains aside, expect the Maybach
saloon to feature all of the new S-Class’ driver assist functions, including
its Level 3 automated driving capabilities. The carmaker’s Lidar-powered Drive
Pilot system will debut next year and will work in both heavy traffic
situations as well as on suitable motorways in Germany.
Inside, it should boast a similar setup to
the GLS, with two rear seats separated by a large console at the back and a 12.3-inch
digital instrument cluster at the front, paired with a 12.8-inch OLED
touchscreen display in the middle. As for pricing, since the current
Mercedes-Maybach S-class starts off from around US$ 170,000, we expect more of the
same from the all-new car. If the carmaker keeps doing two separate variants
like before, then the flagship model will probably cost north of US$ 200,000.
