Mercedes-Benz is pulling back the curtain on a head-turning addition to their lineup, captured testing on a sun-drenched track. This isn’t your everyday roadster; it’s the hotly-anticipated Maybach SL, progressively emerging from its camouflage cocoon.
Unlike the previous black and red prototype, this tester sets the pavement ablaze with a fiery red exterior, offset by a sharply contrasting black folding top. While the details of the front bumper, sides, rear, and exhaust remain shrouded in secrecy, the most exciting revelation lies at the front of the vehicle.
The Maybach’s signature grille, echoing the design of the AMG Panamericana, is peeking through with increasing clarity, hinting at a significant stylistic divergence from the standard SL. Intriguingly, the trunk lid now sports a fresh layer of camouflage, possibly concealing badges that reveal the specific model and engine configuration.
Finishing touches come in the form of distinctive wire-like wheels, a signature element of the Maybach design aesthetic. This latest look provides a tantalizing preview of the pinnacle of luxury open-air motoring.
While official details are still under wraps, whispers suggest two potential variants: the SL 580 and SL 680, mirroring the nomenclature of the Maybach S-Class.
However, unlike its sedan sibling that boasts a monstrous V12 in its top trim, the SL is likely to forgo that engine for a powerful, yet more compact twin-turbocharged V8 engine, most likely displacing 4.0 liters.
This aligns with Mercedes’ strategy of employing this versatile engine across their current offerings, making it difficult to predict the exact output figures for the Maybach SL.
One thing is certain: the Maybach SL won’t be stepping on the toes of its high-octane sibling, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63, or the insanely quick SL 63 S E Performance. Expect the Maybach SL to prioritize luxurious comfort and effortless cruising over blistering acceleration times.
The revealing date for this chrome-clad roadster with its lavish interior and additional refinements remains shrouded in secrecy. However, rumors suggest a potential arrival in showrooms sometime in 2025.
There’s little reason to believe it won’t make its way to North American shores, joining the ranks of the existing Maybach versions of the S-Class, GLS, and EQS SUV. By the time it reaches dealerships, the Mercedes-Maybach SL will likely be a 2026 model.
Expect a starting price exceeding $200,000 for the top-of-the-line trim, presumably dubbed the SL 680, with the slightly less-equipped SL 580 coming in at a marginally lower price point.
