Mercedes could turn Maybach into a Rolls-rivaling sub-brand

By Ronan Glon July 8, 2014

Daimler’s ultra-luxurious Maybach brand was given the axe in 2012 after less than 3,000 cars were sold over a ten-year period. However, the prestigious nameplate’s story might not end there as rumors indicate the Maybach name is poised to make a comeback as a Mercedes-Benz sub-brand aimed at the world’s finest luxury cars.

The first Maybach-badged Mercedes will be a stretched version of the w222 S-Class (pictured) that will fight head-to-head against the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Sealed off by a power-operated partition, the Maybach’s passenger compartment will offer space for up to two passengers on sofa-like seats capable of reclining into beds if the occupants are tired.

The limousine will be fitted with all of the latest high-tech convenience features and driving aids. Additionally, buyers concerned about their own safety will be able to order the car with full body armor.

Australian website Motoring reports the next-generation of the GL-Class off-roader will also get the Maybach treatment in order to take on Bentley’s upcoming SUV. Like the S, the GL will feature a stretched wheelbase and an extremely opulet cockpit built using the very best materials Mercedes has to offer.

Other candidates for the Maybach treatment include the recently-introduced S-Class coupe and Mercedes’ upcoming X6-fighting crossover.

All but confirmed for production, the S-Class Maybach will likely greet the public for the first time at the Los Angeles Motor Show that will open its doors next November. If given the green light, the GL-Class Maybach will arrive shortly after the all-new third-gen GL bows in 2016.

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Ronan Glon is an American automotive and tech journalist based in southern France. As a long-time contributor to Digital…

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