Mercedes-Maybach Reveals New S-Class, Teases Arrival of Maybach VLS Minivan

The new over-the-top S-Class gets a revamped V8 putting out 538 horsepower, but it’s the V12 that gets people salivating with at appropriately unnecessary 621 hp. However, those wacky Germans didn’t stop there. The company elected to make a Maybach version of the all-electric VLE minivan it debuted earlier this month, dubbed the VLS.

The world’s most obnoxi, er, luxurious minivan is based off the Vision V concept Mercedes showed at the New York International Auto Show. Calling it “unparalleled,” it does make the ottomans that pop out on the Kia Carnival when you recline seem almost silly. In case one wonders just how pretentious a minivan can be, read on.

“This extravagant Grand Limousine transforms the generous space into an extraordinary private lounge with everything that characterizes a Mercedes‑Maybach: impeccable craftsmanship, luxurious materials and exquisite design details,” the company said in a release with a teaser photo.

“It's a true Maybach, now combined with the ultimate spatial and immersive digital experience, elevating automotive excellence even further.” Beyond that, there is little information, including whether the VLS will use the same all-electric setup as the VLE or will it come with one of the new Maybach gas-fired, er, powered drivetrains used in the sedan.

And while an uberluxurious minivan does capture attention, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Classes also saw some noteworthy changes, including a front grille that boasts a more “sculptural interpretation” while also being 20 percent larger. Plus the Maybach emblems on the c-pillar and the Mercedes star on the hood are illuminated. 

“Each element has been designed to project quiet authority, never ostentation,” Mercedes confidently asserts, noting that even the Maybach name on the grille lights up. The twin-star design headlights receive rose gold accents further differentiating the Maybach from the conventional S-Class.

“For 105 years, the Maybach name has stood as the benchmark for automotive excellence,” said Ola Källenius, chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, in a statement. With the launch of the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, this legacy continues with new levels of exclusivity and comfort. 

“With the AI-powered MB.OS, we are further elevating the digital customer experience. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the next highlight of the biggest product launch program in our history. Mercedes-Maybach is an important strategic pillar in expanding our top-end segment.”

The new Maybach is the first to use the Mercedes operating system, which is tied to the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment setup that gets a unique Maybach twist. Ensuring buyers feel like their enjoying an very special experience, they still enjoy Robbe & Berking silver champagne flutes and a rear refrigerated compartment to hold the champagne bottle. 

Plus the brand’s Manufakture Made to Measure program ensures that space is adorned in the specific colors — over 400 are available — and fabrics selected by the buyer. Mercedes offers “endless” combinations of Nappa leather, stitching, embroidery, and other bespoke finishes to ensure it is “their” Maybach.

There are a slew of performance, handling, safety, and infotainment enhancements to the 2027 model that will ensure that Mercedes will meet is sales targets for the newest versions. The first versions will come rolling out of the Sindelfingen plant, in Factory 56, regarded as one of the most advanced production facilities in the world, later this year. 

No word on price, but … if you have to ask …

[Images: Mercedes-Benz]

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