2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S 560

Few luxury sedans occupy the same space as the 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4MATIC. Created as the ultra-luxury expression of Mercedes-Benzs flagship S-Class, the Maybach combines an extended-wheelbase platform, formidable V8 performance, extraordinary rear-passenger accommodations, and an extensive collection of comfort and technology features. This particular example has traveled just 49,211 miles since new and presents an especially striking specification, finished in a two-tone black exterior with a contrasting silver top, paired with a black leather interior accented by black piano trim.

Under the hood is one of the most important changes introduced for 2018: a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, this powertrain replaced the previous S550 Maybachs larger 4.7-liter V8. The result is a fascinating combination of substantial power and all-weather drivetrain capability in a full-size ultra-luxury sedan. Independent instrumented testing by Car and Driver recorded a 4.7-second 060 mph run and a 13.1-second quarter-mile at 110 mph for the 2018 S560 Maybachremarkable performance for a sedan of this scale.

The 2018 model year brought a meaningful update to the Maybach. Beyond becoming the S560 and receiving its new-generation V8 and 9-speed transmission, the car gained revised front and rear styling, including a redesigned grille and fascias, upgraded lighting, updated infotainment technology, and the Energizing Comfort system. Energizing Comfort integrates multiple cabin functionsincluding climate, ambient lighting, fragrance, massage and audioto create coordinated comfort programs.

The front cabin showcases exactly why the Maybach name sits above the conventional S-Class hierarchy. Power-adjustable front seats are heated, ventilated and equipped with massage functionality and active seat dynamics, while the expansive panoramic power sunroof opens the cabin visually. Extensive ambient interior lighting transforms the atmosphere after dark, complemented in this particular S560 by a dramatic custom starlight headliner. Its central infotainment display provides AM/FM audio, Bluetooth connectivity and built-in navigation, placing key vehicle and entertainment functions within easy reach.

Yet a Maybach is arguably defined most clearly from the rear compartment. The extended Maybach architecture provides enormous rear-passenger space, and this example features power-adjustable reclining rear seats designed around passenger comfort. Dual rear entertainment screens give rear occupants dedicated displays, while rear side-window sunshades and a power rear-windshield sunshade provide additional control over light and privacy. These accommodations help distinguish the Maybach from even an extensively equipped conventional luxury sedan.

The engineering underneath that luxury is equally noteworthy. The S560 Maybach rides on AIRMATIC adaptive air suspension, while its substantial 132.5-inch wheelbase and approximately 215-inch overall length provide physical dimensions beyond those of the standard-wheelbase S-Class. Mercedes combined those proportions with sophisticated driver-assistance, camera and safety technologies befitting its flagship sedan.

Above all, this is a Maybachnot simply an S560 with additional equipment. The extended body, specialized rear-passenger environment, distinctive appointments and flagship specification were engineered to position the car in Mercedes-Benzs highest luxury tier. With its 463-horsepower twin-turbo V8, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, striking black-and-silver two-tone exterior, panoramic roof, massaging heated and ventilated seating, reclining rear accommodations, dual rear entertainment, ambient lighting, custom starlight headliner and just 49,211 miles, this 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S560 represents an extraordinary intersectio