We don’t have it easy either. Of course, it is certainly a privilege to be able to test cars like this, but it is quite a challenge. Because we don’t just go for a ride in the Mercedes-Maybach S 580 e; We are also expected to say something meaningful about it, something that closely matches the information needs of potential customers.
This means that we have to empathize with people who can afford this limousine without feeling too much pain in their wallets. A little oohing and aahing about Maybach cushions in the back, electrically operated rear doors and seat massage with a buttock vibration setting won’t make any difference. These people buy dog baskets with those kinds of features (we think).
This PHEV is the most affordable Maybach
Otherwise, let’s put this article in a relatable way: this is the cheapest Maybach you can get in the Netherlands. It has been a while since Maybachs were marketed under their own brand name (and cost as much as Rolls-Royces). Nowadays, Mercedes has made it an exclusive sub-brand, just like AMG, and the cars are extra chic versions of existing models. This has an effect on the price, even though Maybach stuck to large eight- and twelve-cylinder engines that matched their opulent appearance for a long time.
Don’t be alarmed: this S-Class has a straight-six. And not only that: the crème de la crème also moves with the times, and so it is nowadays good tone to drive up in a car with an ‘e’ on the back. Yes, this is a plug-in hybrid – with more power than the S 580 V8 that previously opened the range (and was CO2-tax costs at least 50,000 euros extra; in Belgium it is a fraction cheaper). The S 580 e can drive up to 102 kilometers electrically on a full battery, and it does so in ultimately isolated, Maybach-worthy silence.
In terms of appearance, this über-S-Class is actually remarkably modest: that grille with fine bars is immediately the most eye-catching element. The bonnet has a central chrome strip, there are Maybach logos on the C-pillars (but regular Mercedes stars in the usual places) and there are unique Maybach wheels that are a bit reminiscent of Brabus monoblocks, but stylish.
Mercedes-Maybach does not shout it from the rooftops
There’s no screaming reminder inside that you’ve bought the most special S either – the logo is plastered across the headrests and floor mats, there’s an (okay, slightly garish) Maybach mode for the instrument cluster, but that’s about it. Our test car (not pictured) has a £20,000 Manufaktur interior and leather package that some might find a bit much, but try and keep your wits about you and you can easily concoct a Maybach that’s well within the realm of good taste.
The two rear seats are infinitely adjustable and have nice fold-out tables and lots of space. But we forgot to book a driver for this test, so we mainly sit in the front. There you really lack nothing, except the will to switch on the Sport mode. Better choose the special Maybach mode for the air-sprung chassis, so that everything floats just that little bit more smoothly.
Mercedes-Maybach S 580 e is not that smooth
The only thing that breaks the exemplary peace and quiet a few times during our test period is the six-cylinder. When driving on the motorway, it shifts up in a velvety, imperceptible way; but not at village speeds after a cold start. We use the Battery Hold function to save our battery charge for later, so the petrol engine gets to work – by jumping to 2,500 rpm and hanging there. After a minute or so, it calms down at a more sensitive rev range, but such an awakening creates an uncomfortable atmosphere in the quiet compartment.
Despite this strange blemish, you can thoroughly enjoy the Maybach S, although the question arises: can’t you also experience 95 percent of this splendor in a ‘normal’ S-class with some options, for much less money? ? Well, if anything shows how far we are from the clientele of this car, it is this conclusion.
Specifications of the Mercedes-Maybach S 580 e (2024)
Price
€203,348 (NL)
€197,109 (B)
Engine capacity
2,999cc
Engine type
six-cylinder turbo hybrid
Current
510 hp/375 kW
750 Nm
Drive
four wheels
9v automatic
Acceleration
0-100 km/h in 5.1 s
Top speed
250 km/h
Consumption
0.8 l/100 km
Co2 emissions
18 grams/km
Tank capacity
67 l (petrol)
Dimensions
5,469 x 1,921 x 1,510 mm (lxwxh)
Wheelbase
3,396 mm
Weight
2,650 kg
Luggage
325 litres