
Domestically, the main models are the 57 and Maybach 62. The following are the differences between Maybach and Hoefler: 1. Different brands: (1) Maybach: It was a German ultra-luxury car brand and manufacturer active in Europe from 1921 to 1940. (2) Hoefler: Hoefler was born in Stuttgart, the center of the German automotive industry, and is a company specializing in automotive design and customization. 2. Different positioning: (1) Maybach: Once a prominent super brand, it has made a comeback with the strong support of the Mercedes-Benz Group. (2) Hoefler: Hoefler is an officially authorized partner of the German Daimler Group, dedicated to providing unique customized cars based on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. 3. Different characteristics: (1) Maybach: Its ingenious design and unparalleled exquisite manufacturing technology made it a masterpiece representing the highest level of the German automotive industry in the early last century. (2) Hoefler: Hoefler develops and produces automotive modification products, technical kits, and luxurious interiors.

I remember models are divided into several eras. The earliest ones from the 1920s include classics like the W1/W3/W5/W6, with particularly retro body designs. After the revival in the 2000s, they introduced the 57 and 62 series—the 62 being longer than the 57, along with the more luxurious 62S and the convertible Landaulet. However, in recent years after Mercedes took over, Maybach versions are now mostly based on Mercedes-Benz models. The most popular is the S-Class series, like the Maybach S450, S560, and the V12-powered S680, especially the S680 with its super-spacious rear seats and even a mini fridge. For SUVs, there's the Maybach GLS 600, featuring solid wood trim throughout the cabin. Recently, I also saw they launched a limited-edition S680 in collaboration with a designer, with an all-white paint job and black wheels that look really cool.

Recently test drove several models, and now the mainstream versions are basically upgrades based on the Mercedes-Benz platform. The sedan flagship is the Maybach S-Class, available in three powertrain configurations: S450, S560, and S680. The 6.0-liter V12 engine in the S680 is indeed smooth and powerful. For SUVs, there's the Maybach GLS 600, which is based on the GLS and comes standard with electric running boards and ventilated rear seats. I particularly love its onboard fragrance system, which offers two adjustable scents: agarwood and tea. By the way, these models all retain the classic two-tone body design, and the vertical chrome grille bars shine especially brightly in the sunlight. The trunk space is about 15% larger than the standard Mercedes-Benz, making it very convenient to fit golf bags.

The current model lineup of is quite clear, focusing on three main series. The ultra-luxury sedan is represented by models like the S680, equipped with a 6.0-liter V12 engine, achieving 0-100 km/h in just over 4 seconds. The full-size SUV includes the GLS 600, featuring the Magic Body Control air suspension. The limited editions are also quite interesting, such as last year's S680 Virgil Abloh collaboration, with only 150 units globally, all featuring hand-stitched interior seams. I've also noticed they're venturing into pure electric vehicles, with the Maybach electric model based on the EQS set to launch next year, boasting a claimed range of up to 700 km. These vehicles come standard with night vision systems, and the dashboard can display pedestrian outlines.

Having driven the GLS 600 for half a year, I've noticed several thoughtful designs in this vehicle. Firstly, the two independent rear seats can recline to a fully flat position, and with the leg rest raised, one can almost lie flat. The doors feature an electric soft-close function; a gentle push is enough to have them close automatically. The center console retains a physical clock, which emits a soft blue backlight at night. There are two driving modes to switch between: Comfort and Sport. When the air suspension is set to its softest, going over speed bumps feels like stepping on cotton. Additionally, the S680 sedan in the same series has electric sunshades for the rear windows, and the rear seat folding tables can accommodate a laptop for work. The latest model has also added a fingerprint start function, allowing the car to be driven without carrying a key.

The evolution of models actually reflects the history of luxury car development. The W series in the 1920s featured wooden steering wheels and genuine leather roofs, but the brand went silent for a long time after production ceased. When it was revived in 2002, the 57 series adhered to handcrafted manufacturing, with each car taking two and a half weeks to assemble. Now, after transitioning to the Mercedes-Benz platform, the models have become more accessible, such as the S450 using a standard V6 engine. Yet, the essence lies in the details—like the 24K gold-plated door handles across the lineup and the Alpine calf suede used for the roof lining. The newly announced electric vehicle plans to hide LED matrix lights in the grille, paying homage to the classic double-M emblem. Recently, there's also news of their plan to develop an off-road Maybach based on the G-Class.


