[Star Test Drive] The King of Luxury Sedans, Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC

*This content was translated by AI.

Star One-Line Review

The textbook and ultimate destination for the value and authority that a luxury limousine sedan should possess

GOOD

- The power unleashed by the V12-cylinder M279M engine… the quality of force is different

- The Maybach-exclusive driving mode is so fantastic that it captivates anyone

BAD

- 416 million won. This is the most affordable time. The FL model will be more expensive in the third quarter of this year.

- It looks like an S-Class

Competing Models

- Bentley Flying Spur: More lavish interior, exceptional acceleration after low to mid speeds

Among the trends that have swept the world in recent years is 'Quiet Luxury.' Unlike completely hiding one's wealth, it implies a kind of closed-off, ostentatious psychology of spending money, but only in ways that those in the know will recognize. If anything, someone whose status is so secure that they feel no need to show off at all would not even worry about this. Among cars, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be seen as a vehicle that perfectly reflects these consumer characteristics.

Even without invoking the world's top three luxury brands, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class leaves a special memory simply by being experienced. The design of this clear and thorough three-box sedan does not feel large, yet it actually possesses all the elements for grandeur. The configuration, where the second row is longer than the first, is immediately noticeable just by looking at the chrome lines. In particular, the Maybach emblem added to the lower part of the C-pillar felt like the perfect finishing touch.

The vehicle length alone is an overwhelming 5,470mm. With a wheelbase 18cm longer than the standard S-Class Long Wheelbase model, knee space is also up to 12cm longer. The engine mounted here is a V12-cylinder gasoline engine (M279M), producing a maximum output of 630 horsepower and a maximum torque of 91.7 kg.m. It goes beyond mere numerical superiority; the emotional luxury materials are on a different level. The IR laminated glass, a film layer inserted between the glass, low-noise tires, and the adaptive damping system based on air-matic suspension respond sensitively to irregular road surfaces and control each wheel individually. From the sophisticated self-leveling sensor system to the rear-wheel steering function. It truly has everything essential, plus all the luxury equipment needed to appeal to consumers in this class.

The chrome line stretching across the long hood ends at the triangular-star Mercedes-Benz logo, which is almost dramatic. The interior remains the highlight of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Even without looking at the Maybach logo, the near-perfect interior design is impressive just by observing its materials and proportions. In particular, the convenience features and luxury of the rear seats make it clear where this car's aspirations lie. A particularly noticeable point is the generous use of leather. The Mercedes-Maybach S 680 comes standard with the Manufacture leather package, covering even the roof liner in Nappa leather. Even without being as flashy as a Starlight headliner, it conveyed a solid yet luxurious feel.

In particular, the second-row seats felt like the textbook of luxury sedans, and the reason was the Chauffeur Package. The front passenger seat can be pushed forward up to 77mm to create more space for the rear seats. Additionally, the power-operated comfort doors provide an endless sense of elegance when opening and closing. Furthermore, the rear-seat belt feeder, applied for the first time on the Maybach brand, automatically extends after the door is closed once a passenger is seated in the rear, then retracts after the seatbelt is fastened, assisting with convenient and safe seatbelt usage.

The V12 gasoline engine delivers a maximum output of 630 horsepower, yet it offered a special sensory charm that cannot be measured by the 630th-horsepower figure alone. Regardless of downsizing or electrification trends, the output produced by the 5th,980cc engine is pure gravitas, whether at low or high speeds. The process of releasing power without bias toward any speed is unique. Even when driving at the same speed, the V12 engine created a ride quality on a completely different level. In particular, among this car's drive modes, the 'Maybach Mode' delivers a ride quality that is overwhelming compared to any large sedan experienced so far.

There is no need to discuss feedback on pedaling or the sensitivity of the steering; the lack of ride quality is not felt. On the contrary, even when chasing and pushing the car across low and high speeds, the sense of balance never wavered at any speed. The ride quality offered by this limousine sedan, which extends the wheelbase on top of the clear value that a genuine German sedan should possess, presented another charm.

Mercedes-Maybach has long maintained its position as a genuine limousine sedan. Even with the most superior number, S 680, it exudes a transcendent sense that does not feel any damage to its status.

This car is not suitable for ostentatious consumers. Once it becomes known that one is wealthy, they will only experience tiring things such as being solicited for investments or facing envy and jealousy. Now is the time to choose calm luxury. The Mercedes-Maybach S 680 is not a car for consumers who have just crossed the threshold of wealth, but rather a car for practical and defensive wealth.

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*This content was translated by AI.