MERCEDES-MAYBACH S-CLASS SLINKS INTO THE LA AUTO SHOW WITH EFFORTLESS STYLE

When production of the new S-Class started in 2013, production of the original Maybach ended after an uninspiring decade-long return. But now it’s back as the Mercedes-Maybach S600. Instead of being a standalone model, it represents a sub-brand. Just as the Mercedes-AMG is synonymous with performance, Mercedes-Maybach will be identified with super luxury, exclusivity and prestige. In short, it’s just another S-Class, albeit one with an extra-long wheelbase, plenty of head- and legroom and a cabin that will give Rolls-Royce and Bentley dwellers something to think about.Mercedes expects Maybach owners to ride in the back. So while the exterior is modestly upgraded with a more stately looking grille, lengthened rear doors, and a couple of subtle badges, the carmaker has focused on the interior of the high-end S600. Hand-stitched leather trim, real wood and chrome trim covers every inch of the cabin, which features individual electronically-adjustable rear seats akin to those in the Maybach 57 and 62 models.A rear quarterlight window ensures rear passengers remain out of sight of the main window, while backrests recline by up to 43.5 degrees and cushioned pop-out ottomans ensures the full first-class travel experience.

When the front passenger adopts a "chauffeur position," extra legroom is provided at the back, which is ideal when one is knocking back bubbly from the silver-plated champagne flutes while getting an imitation hot stone massage from the chair. Other one-percent essentials include an Air-Balance perfume pack, panoramic sunroof with Magic Sky Control, Designo leather headliner and Burmester 3D stereo. Power will come from an AMG-produced 523-hp 6.0-liter V12, while other markets will receive a twin-turbo V8 in the S500, and a V6 in the AWD S500 4Matic. No word on price yet, but when the 2016 Mercedes-Maybach S600 hits showrooms this April, expect a price tag in the region of $200,000.