FYI: The highly anticipated Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series debuts with exquisite styling and exclusive features, marking a stellar return for the Maybach convertible.
The New Era of Luxury: Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series
In an exciting revival of luxury convertibles, Mercedes-Maybach has unveiled the 2026 SL680 Monogram Series. This marks the first time since 2016, with the unprecedented S-Class Cabriolet, that Maybach enthusiasts can indulge in an open-top experience. Beyond just being an SL, this seventh-generation SL Roadster, now ingeniously reinvigorated, proudly blends the dynamism of the SL lineage with the opulence of the Maybach ethos.
Stunning Exterior Design
The launch variant boasts an eye-catching Garnet Red Metallic finish, achieving a deep, stunning hue through a multi-layered painting approach. The Obsidian Black bonnet, a hallmark of the new model, eschews the AMG SL’s power bulge for more refined lines and a central chrome spine extending to a distinctive front ornament. Interestingly, it is the first SL to proudly display a three-pointed star on its nose.
Optional customizations include a hood printed with a repeating Maybach logo pattern, a nod to the brand’s blend of luxury and ostentation. This process involves cutting-edge machinery, allowing the graphite grey logos to shine through multiple layers of clear and matte coating.
Unique Design Elements
The SL680 Monogram Series flaunts exclusive elements such as:
- Grille and Bumper: The grille mirrors the AMG SL’s shape but integrates vertical slats and an illuminated surround with Maybach’s script. Absent are the faux intake panels, replaced by genuine airflow openings graced with chrome wraps.
- Distinctive Accents: From wheel designs to quirky double M front fender trims, the model features unique side skirts, rear bumpers, and chrome windshield surroundings. It also includes rose gold accents in the headlights and a new font for the rear badge.
Lavish Interior Craftsmanship
Inside, the only trim choice is Crystal White Nappa leather, generously draped across the cabin. The seating boasts a new stitch reminiscent of the Maybach logo, further embellished with embossed double M marks. Enhanced aesthetics include silver trims with Maybach lettering around the head restraints. Features like power-folding roof controls and a new steering wheel with piano black trim showcase the brand’s keen attention to customer feedback and luxury desires.
Replacing the AMG SL’s rear seats, a plush leather-covered parcel shelf integrates Burmester speakers with the Maybach’s signature stitching pattern. The fixed aero cowl enhances the car’s sophisticated profile, creating a refined look, especially with the top down.
Engineering Mastery and Performance
Underneath the glamorous exterior lies a thoroughly re-engineered system. Powered by the same twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine as the SL63, the SL680 churns out an impressive 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain achieves 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, clocking a top speed of 161 mph—making it the fastest in the Maybach history, despite being slightly restrained compared to the SL63.
The bespoke exhaust and refined transmission software of the SL680 ensure smoother driving experiences. With only a few driving modes, such as Comfort, Maybach, and Sport, this model offers an effortlessly luxurious drive without the use of launch control.
Tailored Luxury and Accessibility
For its inaugural year, the Monogram Series will offer limited customization to maintain the exclusivity. Buyers can choose from Red or White Ambience trims and between multi-spoke or Monoblock wheels. The monochrome hood is an extra option that adds a unique flair.
Unlike its predecessor, the Maybach S650 Cabriolet, of which only 300 units were produced globally, the SL680 Monogram Series does not have a production cap. Priced close to $250,000, the SL680 caters to an affluent clientele accustomed to opulence and exclusivity.
Conclusion
With the unveiling of the Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series, the brand reaffirms its dedication to delivering extraordinary luxury experiences. This model reflects a harmonious blend of engineering finesse and opulent detailing, setting a new benchmark in the world of convertible luxury.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
