2023 Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC

by Mike Hunter

Grille blades shimmer. Pillar emblems glow. Paintwork and chrome accentuate flowing lines and a confident stance. That’s the new Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC. The cabin is the work of 16,000 needles in unison, and several pairs of expert hands. It is the ultimate production luxury sedan on the road.

Biturbo torque, from a V8 or V12, is apportioned to all four wheels with constantly calculated precision. Changing weather or winding road, 4MATIC® sends power to the wheels that can use it best. AIRMATIC® suspension can adapt and self-level at each wheel to minimize the motions felt by passengers. E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, an S 580 option, can watch the road and respond in milliseconds. The rear wheels can turn up to 10 degrees opposite the fronts for tighter low-speed turns. Subtler angles in either direction can intelligently enhance higher-speed stability and lane changes.

From a warm welcome to a “hot stone” massage, every moment in a Maybach is time well spent. Legroom is expansive, with room to recline as passengers enjoy the extensive amenities. Every surface conveys the depth of engineering within. Wheels from 19 to 21 inches include polished, forged and fluted designs. Twenty-five paint choices include 10 distinctive two-tones. Thirty speakers include in-seat resonators to deliver Burmester® High-End 4D sound that can be both heard and felt. Sound can be tuned to individual seats. Ear-level speakers guide the driver discreetly.

Generosity in standard fitments leaves only a short roster of options. Among them are twin lounges divided by a wood-trimmed console. Bespoke handcrafted flutes are a thoughtful addition. The digital cockpit responds to natural spoken requests, or via touchscreens and a tablet. Climate and seating comforts tend to passengers individually. Music, lighting, massage and aromatherapy rival what’s enjoyed at a favorite spa.

It is pure luxury.