Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class the Maybach?

[SanGarrett]

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is not the Maybach. Here is the extended content: Different reasons: The connection between Maybach and Mercedes-Benz has a long history. Since Maybach's attempt to stand alone ended in failure, Mercedes-Benz made a bold decision: collaboration, which led to the appearance of Maybach models bearing the Mercedes-Benz emblem. Therefore, the Maybach-Mercedes S-Class is certainly not the Maybach. Mercedes-Benz S-Class assistance systems: Numerous assistance systems help enhance driving and riding comfort, making the life of S-Class drivers easier and more enjoyable. The parking component rearview camera provides drivers with a better view of the rear area, making reverse parking operations more convenient and safer. The wide-angle lens is installed below the trunk handle. When reverse gear is selected, the rearview camera automatically activates, immediately capturing the area behind the vehicle and transmitting the image to the cockpit management and data system display. The parking component also includes a parking positioning system with a parking guidance system.

[LaEverly]

Maybach used to be an independent brand, a ultra-luxury vehicle on par with Rolls-Royce. Later, Mercedes-Benz transformed it into a high-end version of the S-Class, now called the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. The rear space in a regular S-Class is already generous, but the Maybach S-Class extends the wheelbase by over ten centimeters, fitting in airline-style seats that allow you to recline halfway and cross your legs. The front features a vertical chrome grille, the C-pillar bears the Maybach emblem, and even the wheels have exclusive designs. I once rode in a friend's newly acquired S680—the sound insulation is exceptionally thick, gliding over speed bumps like a magic carpet, making it a completely different world from driving a regular S-Class.

[DeSkylar]

At the Mercedes dealership, the regular S-Class and the Maybach S-Class are displayed side by side, and the differences are quite noticeable. The standard S-Class exudes a strong business vibe, with rear seats that are adequate but not luxurious. The Maybach S-Class, on the other hand, features zero-gravity rear seats with massage functions, complete with fold-out tables and champagne glass holders—even the doors are power-operated with soft-close mechanisms. During a service visit, I saw both cars with their door panels removed for comparison: the Maybach's sound insulation material was a third thicker than the S-Class's. The powertrain configurations also differ significantly. For instance, both entry-level models use a 3.0T engine, but the Maybach's tuning is smoother, preventing sudden surges even when you floor the accelerator.

[GabriellaLee]

Simply put, the Maybach available now is essentially the top-tier version of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The price speaks volumes: the standard S400L costs over 800,000 RMB, while the Maybach S480, built on the same platform, is 500,000 RMB more expensive. This price difference mainly reflects an 18 cm extension in the rear seating area, an Alcantara headliner, and semi-aniline leather seats. The most crucial aspect is the exclusive services—Maybach buyers can opt for a custom two-tone paint job and even have their name engraved on the armrest. However, the core mechanical components are shared with the S-Class, and the V12 engine has long been discontinued, with all models now featuring a 4.0T hybrid powertrain.

[LeVincent]

Having run a repair shop for over a decade, I've handled hundreds of S-Class models. The most obvious difference is the B-pillar: standard versions use black plastic, while Maybach models feature mirror-finished stainless steel. From a mechanical perspective, Maybach's air suspension offers multiple comfort modes, with actuators responding 0.2 seconds faster over bumps. During electrical repairs, I noticed its ambient lighting uses 273 LEDs - triple that of the standard version. However, maintenance costs are staggering: replacing Maybach's power door seal costs 8,000 RMB, whereas the same part for a standard S-Class is just 2,000 RMB. In my opinion, the regular S-Class offers sufficient prestige - only opt for Maybach if you demand ultimate luxury.