Facelifted Maybach S-Class adds tech upgrades and shifts focus to V8 power
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the facelifted Maybach S-Class, bringing a mix of subtle design tweaks, enhanced technology and a notable shift in its powertrain strategy. While it closely follows the updates seen on the standard S-Class facelift, the ultra-luxury limousine continues to distinguish itself with bespoke styling elements and a greater focus on rear-seat comfort.
Exterior Design
The updated Maybach S-Class carries forward the design changes introduced on the S-Class facelift, but with signature Maybach touches. The grille is now larger and illuminated, featuring the brand’s trademark vertical slats and a prominent Maybach wordmark. The bonnet also gets an illuminated three-pointed star, adding to the visual drama.
New headlamps integrate the latest Digital Light technology with distinctive three-pointed star DRLs, complemented by rose gold accents exclusive to the Maybach variant. The bumper design incorporates a mesh pattern inspired by the Maybach logo, while the tail-lamps receive a revised LED signature.
In profile, the Maybach remains significantly longer than the long-wheelbase S-Class, emphasising its chauffeur-driven appeal. New 20- and 21-inch forged alloy wheels with intricate designs are offered, featuring a self-leveling Mercedes emblem that stays upright while the wheels rotate. Buyers also get expanded customisation options through the Manufaktur programme, including additional paint finishes and two-tone combinations.
Interior And Features
Inside, the focus remains firmly on comfort and personalisation. The cabin can now be specified with more extensive leather coverage, extending even to lower sections like the footwell area. Additionally, Mercedes has introduced a leather-free vegan upholstery option for the first time in a Maybach.
The dashboard adopts the updated ‘Superscreen’ layout from the S-Class facelift, but with exclusive Maybach graphics and rose gold highlights. Rear seat occupants continue to be the priority, with reclining seats offering up to 43 degrees of tilt, along with heating, ventilation and massage functions.
A notable change is the replacement of the rear tablet controller with two individual smartphone-style remotes, offering greater flexibility for passengers.
Technology
The facelift brings a significant technology upgrade, including an AI-powered voice assistant that integrates multiple platforms such as ChatGPT, Bing and Gemini. The car also uses a new electronic architecture based on four high-performance computing units that manage everything from infotainment to safety systems and driving dynamics.
Night Series
Mercedes continues to offer the Night Series variant for the Maybach S-Class. This version features darker exterior finishes, blacked-out detailing in place of chrome and unique wheel designs with Maybach branding, catering to buyers seeking a more understated yet distinctive appearance.
Powertrain
The Maybach S-Class lineup retains the S 580 V8 as a core offering, now updated with the latest iteration of Mercedes’ 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine producing 537 HP and 750 Nm.
In select markets, a plug-in hybrid variant pairs a 3.0-litre inline-six engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 585 HP and offering an electric-only range of up to 98 km.
The most significant change comes at the top end. The S 680 badge will now represent either a V12 or a high-output V8, depending on the market. While regions such as the US and UAE are expected to retain the V12, many markets, including India, are likely to receive a more powerful 4.0-litre V8 producing 612 HP and 850 Nm.
India Launch And Expectations
The updated Maybach S-Class is expected to arrive in India around early 2027. The S 580 variant is likely to continue with local assembly but the added technology and features could push pricing beyond the Rs. 3 crore mark.
