Mercedes-Maybach S 600 review, test drive

What is it?

This car was earlier going to be called the Maybach edition; and that, despite the double barrel Mercedes-Maybach name, is exactly what it is; an even more special version of the S-class. So, what exactly is an S600? Basically, a longer, taller and more spacious version of the long-wheelbase S-class. With an additional 207mm thrown into the wheelbase for good measure, this is simply the most luxurious version of the S-class yet (an even longer and more luxurious Pullman version has been planned). The big differences include a new front grille that's been made to look even more upmarket, the rear seat occupants can now hide behind the extended 'C' pillar  and the rear quarter glass and glass house is covered in a tastefully executed thick band of chrome. The car also carries both badges, Mercedes and Maybach, with the double M Maybach Motors logo looking fabulous on the C pillar. There's new hardware under the hood as well. Instead of a twin-turbo V8 you now get the sledgehammer-like punch of a twin-turbo V12 that puts out a huge 523bhp.

What's it like on the inside?

The cabin is even more luxurious than that of the S. It can be trimmed in a wide variety of leathers, woods and assorted shiny bits and the list of additional luxury fittings is long and comprehensive. Selected highlights include air-conditioned, heated and massaging seats for all passengers, a system that pumps scented, ionised air around the cabin and a 1540-watt Burmester 3D surround sound system with 24 speakers. The two individual rear seats can be reclined even more to 43 degrees, due to the longer wheelbase. Missing, however, are the champagne flutes the earlier Maybach was famous for, and a refrigerated compartment, that should have been there behind the central elbow rest.

The two thrones at the rear are good enough to seriously embarrass most first-class airline seats, especially for sumptuousness and opulence. The fully reclineable chairs are finished in the softest and most supple Nappa leather and with all the extra legroom available, you can really stretch out, and even kick your legs out. You also get fold-out tables, a huge sunroof and a moonroof with photo chromatic glass.  And, for the first time in India, you get inflatable seat belt airbags too, or beltbags as Merc calls them. The entertainment system at the rear though is a bit fiddly to use and the remote-based system feels quite antiquated.