Mercedes-Maybach – manufacturer of ultra-luxurious cars within the Mercedes-Benz organisation, has presented Irish motorists with its SL 680 Monogram Series two-seater cabriolet, described by them as ‘the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history’ for which orders are now being taken at Mercedes-Benz dealerships across the country.
Introduced as ‘the ultimate open-air experience for customers who love something special’ the new Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 – whose name recalls legendary German auto designer of the early 1900s, Wilhelm Maybach – is already being viewed by many as an ‘all-time classic’ sports car before its wheels have fully run on Irish roads.
Its iconic SL credentials can be seen in its elegantly proportioned silhouette, enhanced by distinctive and unmistakable Maybach treatments evident in its many styling details. From front to rear and through to the interior, its timeless design and visually-attractive appearance is characterised in two new two-tone paint finishes: ‘Red Ambience’ and ‘White Ambience’.
Sporty design – Outside and Inside
From the outside, noticeable features are its elegantly squat aerodynamic body poised on 21-inch forged wheels in 5-hole or multi-spoke design.
Enhancing its sporty appearance is an ‘extensively insulated’ acoustic soft-top in light black fabric, and its front signature grille with chromed fins, Mercedes star, rose gold accented headlights, and finely integrated Maybach lettering. Its SL individuality is also evident at the rear in lights and in a brand-specific skirt, and in chrome body and tailpipe trims.
Inside, sustainably tanned, crystal-white nappa leather on Maybach signature comfort seats, door panels, and centre console combine to create a sense of ‘luxurious ambience”, as do its fully-digital instrument panel and electrically-adjustable centre console which incorporate Maybach-specific start-up animations and display styles. Further brand hallmarks are the steering wheel, stainless-steel pedals and stainless-steel door sill trims.
Driving Experience
Under the bonnet, the SL 680 is powered by a V8 4.0-litre biturbo engine that delivers 430 kW (585 hp) of power and acceleration figures of 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds via smooth-shifting 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Measures that Mercedes-Maybach say will ensure a quiet, comfortable and ‘typically Maybach’ driving experience include a noise-optimised exhaust system, an extensive insulation and absorption package, and a comfort-oriented suspension set-up with soft engine mounts. Fully variable 4-MATIC+ all-wheel drive provides high traction even in slippery road conditions.
Comment & Price
Welcoming its arrival here, Ciaran Allen, director at Mercedes-Benz distributors in Ireland, Motor Distributors Limited, describes the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 as “the ultimate sporty two-seater built to appeal to discerning owners who enjoy the experience of open-air driving comforted in fine features and materials, excellent craftsmanship, and ultra-luxurious design expressed in the Mercedes-Maybach signature.”
Regarding price, Mr. Allen confirmed that in view of the high level of specifications and craftmanship employed in its manufacture, and likely fluctuations in materials and component costs within the production chain – intending buyers will be given a quoted purchase amount at the time of ordering.
