Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series takes the luxury sub-brand into sports car territory.
One usually associates the Maybach brand with ultra-luxury and how Mercedes-Benz fights off the likes of Rolls-Royce from BMW Group and Bentley from VW Group. This time, they’re going in a different direction, adopting a much sportier outlook with the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. Unveiled at the Monterey Car Week 2024, this 2-seater is based on the latest generation SL, which replaces a number of outgoing vehicles like the S-Class Cabriolet, the AMG GT Roadster and of course the previous generation R231 SL.
At launch, it was said that this new SL would be an AMG-exclusive model, but now it looks like the Maybach sub-brand will get access to it as well. This shares the same 585hp 4.0L biturbo V8 engine with 800Nm of torque as the SL 63, and you will also find 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, a 9G-TRONIC transmision, and rear-axle steering. The difference here is a noise-optimised exhaust system, extensive insulation and absorption package, soft engine mounts and a comfort-oriented suspension set-up. Essentially this is the luxury grand touring convertible of the range.
The first of the “SL 680 Monogram Series” that was shown are the “Red Ambience” and “White Ambience” models and they will be available in Europe starting early 2025 with no indicated price yet.
The Maybach treatment of the SL is quite interesting. You get a lovely two-tone paint with obsidian black metallic over either Manufactur garnet red metallic or Manfuctur opalite white magno for a very stark contrast. Of course, being a Maybach vehicle, a wide variety of exterior colour options can be specified at cost. These sample models feature crystal white Manufactur-exclusive nappa leather with trim parts finished in gleaming silver chrome. The seats feature a new floral design. Maybach-specific animations and display styles are featured on the digital instrumentation and infotainment system. Other Maybach-hallmarks include stainless steel pedals and door sill trims.
Another major highlight that sets this model apart from the AMG SL cars is the radiator grille. You get the brand-specific chrome-finished grille which is illuminated and has finely integrated MAYBACH lettering. A rare upright Mercedes star hood ornament sits in front of the bonnet with a chromed fin running behind it. The Maybach monograms here are incorporated in graphite grey uni in a very complex and labour intensive process. The headlights are unique in that they feature rose gold accents. There are also unique front skirts and the windscreen frame is finished in gleaming chrome too with more of this material found on the sill cladding. You get 21″ forged wheels in a 5-hole design or multispoke design.
The soft top consists of a light black fabric with a subtle Maybach monogram pattern in anthracite.
The rear lights incorporate the Maybach signet and there’s an exclusive rear side skirt with chrome trim and a unique diffuser and tailpipe trims with a horizontal bar. A unique double scoop is featured behind the seats.
Another way they’re drawing in the ultra rich is by coming up with a Maybach Icons of Luxury pack which includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag and a dog bag that are all inspired by the same materials and colours of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.
