since 1976
since 1976
By Lee Pang Seng
THE super-rich has another exclusive automotive option in the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. At an estimated price of RM2,250,000 (on the road without insurance), this luxurious Mercedes-Maybach two-seater roadster certainly earns its right of place in the stable of the ultra-elite class.
It has sound bragging rights that supports its exclusive status and this includes being the first fully open-top Maybach in the brand’s history to deliver what is undeniably ‘the ultimate open-air experience’. For the uninitiated, Maybach is a German luxury car brand that took root in 1909 (founder Wilhelm Maybach and his son Karl) and was acquired by Daimler-Benz in 1960. Daimler produces ‘ultra-luxury’ edition of a few selected models under the Mercedes-Maybach name.
Launched to flag off the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur 2026 at the Exchange TRX and to celebrate Mercedes-Benz’s 140 years of history, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series Red Ambience is characterised by a new two-tone paint finish of obsidian black metallic over MANUFAKTUR garnet red metallic. There is also the option of a Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series White Ambience that features obsidian black metallic that contrasts with the MANUFAKTUR opalite white magno.
The contours of the chrome-finished radiator grille are illuminated, along with the integrated MAYBACH lettering. The distinctive bonnet bears an upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running front to rear along its centre. To further elevate the exclusivity, it features an obsidian black bonnet with the Maybach pattern incorporated in graphite grey uni.
This process is described as very complex and is partly done by hand. First, the bonnet receives a base coat, which is then sanded by hand. The Maybach pattern is then printed onto it. Mercedes says each part of the process is technically sophisticated and must be executed with the utmost precision. Next, the bonnet is coated with clear matte lacquer, sanded by hand and finally finished with a further coat of clear matte lacquer.
Other exclusive styling details include the inside of the headlights being finished with high-quality accenting in rose gold; the front skirt emphasising the vehicle’s width with horizontal air intakes; the windscreen frame being finished in gleaming chrome and a further chrome insert gracing the sill cladding.
The new Mercedes‑Maybach SL Monogram Series runs on 21-inch forged wheels with a five-hole design. This styling is simpler and elegant to complement its air of finesse compared to the aggressive and sporty overtones of the alloy wheels seen on the respective Mercedes-Benz model range.
The soft top is described as an extensively insulated acoustic item that consists of light black fabric, with the Maybach pattern subtly incorporated in anthracite. The rear is characterised by rear lights with the Maybach signet, a brand-specific rear skirt with chrome trim, a dedicated diffuser design and tailpipe trims with a signature horizontal bar.
Behind the seats, an aerodynamically designed double scoop reinforces the individual look. Together with the chrome fin on the bonnet, Mercedes says that this design gives the two-seater ‘particularly elegant and sporty’ proportions when viewed from the side, especially with the top down.
And of course, Mercedes believes that the silver-coloured brake callipers with ‘MAYBACH’ lettering showcase the braking system as a technical highlight. In the carmaker’s reckoning, they visually emphasise the high performance and exclusive value of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.
Stepping inside, one could luxuriate in the ‘sustainably tanned’, crystal white nappa leather that highlights its ‘exceptionally exquisite ambience’. It is featured on the door panels, centre console and on the brand’s signature comfort seats. The seat upholstery has a new floral design and the space behind the seats is also finished in white leather. The galvanised seat backrests and silver chrome trim is meant to provide a striking contrast.
The driver gets to enjoy the fully digital 12.3-inch instrument display and electrically adjustable 11.9-inch centre display, which incorporate the Maybach-specific start-up animations and display styles. Adding to the brand hallmarks are the wood/leather multifunction steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and stainless steel door sills with illuminated ‘Maybach’ lettering.
Mercedes adds that top-down driving could be enjoyed at any time of year, especially with the AIRSCARF that wraps around the driver’s neck and nape like an invisible scarf of warm air. With this, both the driver and passenger could experience pure roadster enjoyment even in cooler temperatures without sacrificing comfort.
The ENERGIZING Package Plus is said to deliver elevated comfort with coordinated seat climate control, ambient lighting and multi-contour seats with massage function. The in-cabin experience is further enhanced with the Burmester high-end 3D surround sound system, head-up display and high-pile floor mats. Another interesting item is the vehicle key in high-gloss white with ornamental surround in high-gloss rose gold that is believed to enhance the exclusivity of this iconic model.
Nothing is sacrificed in driving and acoustic comfort. ‘Carefully curated features’ include a noise-optimised exhaust system, an extensive insulation and absorption package as well as a comfort-oriented suspension set-up and soft engine mounts. Mercedes believes the combination of a 4.0-litre biturbo engine and smooth-shifting 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission with adapted accelerator pedal characteristics ensures the ‘supremely dynamic driving pleasure’ expected of a Maybach.
The 4.0-litre (3982cc) biturbo engine delivers 430kW (585hp) at 5500 to 6500rpm and a whopping 800Nm from 2500 to 5000rpm. And you could believe that despite its kerb weight of 2050kg, the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series isn’t slow off the line, clocking 4.1 seconds in the 0-100km/h sprint and achieving a top speed of 260km/h.
It is dynamically spot on too. Mercedes says the rear-axle steering combines agility and stability for a manoeuvrable and safe driving experience. Additionally, the electronic rear axle locking differential optimises power distribution at the rear axle for reduced slip and increased driving stability. There are also the ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension and front axle lift system that raises the front axle by up to 30mm to protect the front bumper from damage.
Safety and assistance features include the Driving Assistance Package, Parking Package with Memory Parking Assist, MAGIC VISION CONTROL, GUARD 360° vehicle protection Plus with Digital Extras.
Our driving experience with such a Mercedes model goes back to 2003 when the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren grand tourer was introduced. Developed with McLaren Automotive of the UK, this model was sold between then and 2010. It was powered by a supercharged 5.4-litre (5439cc) V8 that delivered 460kW (617hp) at 6500rpm and 780Nm at 3250 to 5000rpm (there are other variants with even higher output). The transmission was an AMG Speedshift five-speed 5G-Tronic automatic. It did the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.6 to 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 333km/h.
The world media drive was organised in South Africa and we had the pleasure of enjoying the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren along the winding coastal roads in Cape Town. It was an exhilarating experience revelling in its gutsy acceleration and its dynamic prowess through corners and sweepers that we have not been on before. Its sure-footed handling simply boosted our confidence.
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series might be better enjoyed as a roadster for the elite class but we believe it would be right at home taking to winding roads, similar to that of our South African experience.
