The Mercedes-Maybach S480 has been revealed as a downsized alternative to the V8-powered flagship luxury saloon in the Chinese market. The new derivative is aimed at consumers who wish to lessen their carbon footprint on the roads.
The Mercedes-Maybach S480 has been fitted with the brand’s twin-scroll 3,0-litre straight-six engine which delivers 270 kW and 500 N.m of torque to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Together with the EQ Boost generator, the large sedan will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5,8 seconds and hit a top speed of 250 km/h.
By contrast, the fully fledged Mercedes-Maybach S580 uses the brand’s twin-turbo 4,0-litre V8 with the EQ Boost system to deliver 370 kW and 700 N.m of torque to all four paws. Where dimensions are concerned, the downsized alternative doesn’t compromise with its 5 469 mm length, 1 921 mm width and 1 510 mm height. Rear legroom remains generous thanks to the 3 369 mm wheelbase.
Standard kit in the Mercedes-Maybach S480 includes a panoramic sunroof, electric sun shades on the rear and side windows, geometric multi-beam LED headlamps, keyless start and an electronic door closing function.
Within the cabin, comfort is ensured by means of foot pads, a wooden and leather multifunction steering wheel, a 12,8-inch OLED central display and head-up display for the driver, rear smart air conditioner with multi-zone intelligent air conditioner, luxury headrests for the front and rear, electrically adjustable rear seats with memory function, the premium interior package with high-gloss brown multi-scarred walnut wood and a black crystal centre console and a 64-colour ambient lighting package.
For this entry-level model, Mercedes-Maybach has listed the starting price at ¥146,80 million (approximately R19,5 million).