Mercedes creates fourth Maybach model: the SL roadster

The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is powered by a 4-litre biturbo V8 engine with 577 hp.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series parked in marina — *The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is a more luxurious SL roadster. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Mercedes has launched a new car for people who just don’t find regular Benzes opulent enough, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series.

This roadster is the company’s fourth Maybach model, and its first two-door car, joining the S-Class sedan, GLS sport utility vehicle and EQS electric SUV.

The SL has already launched in Europe and will become available in other markets eventually. Canadian market details were not provided.

The SL 680 is powered by a 4-litre biturbo V8 engine producing 577 hp (585 European horses). It is the same motor that powers the Mercedes-AMG SL 63. A 9G-Tronic automatic transmission sends power to the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which has an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential for improved traction on slippery roads.

The car also has rear-axle steering for improved agility.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series exterior rear side — *The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series was built for comfort. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Comfort features

While sharing a motor with a sporty AMG model is fine, this car is built for luxury and comfort.

For starters, the car has four drive modes: Comfort, Maybach, Sport and Individual, with the Comfort and Maybach modes making the accelerator pedal characteristics softer to make the car smoother and more refined.

The suspension features semi-active, hydraulic roll stabilization, which the automaker said increases ride comfort, regardless of the situation, whether on a straight road, driving over bumps or taking a turn.

The suspension includes Maybach-specific valves for the damper hydraulics and softer steel springs. Mercedes said uneven roads are gently absorbed.

Other features, including new front-axle head bearings, modifications to the elastokinematics and Pirelli P Zero tires also contribute to ride comfort.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series front grille — *Numerous changes were made to make the Maybach roadster quieter and more refined. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Reduced noise

The Maybach SL also gets increased sound insulation to reduce road noise.

Sound insulation includes acoustic fleeces, aluminum butyl surfaces and acoustic foams and more.

Additionally, the car’s exhaust system was also optimized to reduce noise. This included increased insulation and a quieter muffler that features inlays made of recyclable fibreglass textile.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series Red Ambiance and White Ambiance cars — *The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is shown with Red Ambiance and White Ambiance design concepts. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Style

The SL roadster shown in these photos consists of a pair of curated design concepts. One is called White Ambience and the other Red Ambience.

The White Ambience car features a two-colour paint job with obsidian black metallic in the upper parts and opalite white magno in the lower areas. The white colour comes from the company’s Manufaktur division, which provides customization on select vehicles.

The Red Ambience car gets obsidian black metallic contrasts on a garnet red metallic exterior. The red also comes from Manufaktur, and was developed for the Maybach roadster.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series seats — *Exclusive Nappa leather is used throughout the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series interior. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

The interior sees crystal white and sustainably tanned Manufaktur-exclusive Nappa leather. This material, with floral design, is seen on the seats, door panels, centre console and behind the seats.

The galvanized seat backrests and trim parts consist of silver chrome.

Oh, and the Maybach roadster ditches the rear seats, making this version of the SL a two-seater.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series interior — *The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is a two-seater. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

Exterior

The Maybach roadster is distinguished from other SL cars with various design changes, including a brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille, which is illuminated and has integrated Maybach lettering.

The front apron is also changed, featuring horizontal air intakes and chrome trim. The windscreen frame is finished in gleaming chrome.

There’s a rose gold accent in the headlights and an upright Mercedes star on the hood.

The taillights feature the Maybach logo, plus there’s a brand-specific rear apron and tailpipe trim.

There’s also a double scoop behind the rear seats to create a unique appearance.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series obsidian black metallic hood — *The obsidian black metallic hood is available on request on the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. – Mercedes-Benz photo*

The hood in obsidian black metallic is available on request. It features an integrated Maybach pattern in graphite grey uni.

The car rides on 21-inch forged wheels, which are available in a five-hole or multi-spoke design.

The soft top consists of a light black fabric with a discreetly integrated, anthracite-coloured Maybach pattern. This top is said to provide acoustic comfort as well.

For vehicle updates, visit the Mercedes-Benz Canada website.