When the Door Closes, the Seatbelt Automatically Extends... "First Class on Wheels" Mercedes-Maybach S-Class [Taboleo]

Test Drive Review of the Mercedes-Maybach S 680

The Maybach S-Class, the top-tier brand of Mercedes-Benz, is often referred to as a "first class on wheels" designed with a focus on the second-row seats. Its spacious interior and exceptionally quiet ride set it apart from other luxury sedans in its class.

Last month, I had the opportunity to test drive the Maybach S 680 in the Ilsan area of Gyeonggi Province. The Mercedes-Maybach S 680 stands out from the standard S-Class, with exclusive features such as a signature grille and two-tone exterior, highlighting its distinguished status.

Mercedes-Maybach S 680. Provided by Mercedes-Benz

The body is 18 centimeters longer than the standard S-Class long wheelbase version. As a result, knee room has been expanded by up to 12 centimeters, and the Chauffeur Package allows the front passenger seat to move forward by up to 77 millimeters, maximizing rear seat usability. The executive seats can recline up to 43.5 degrees, and the leg rests can be adjusted up to 50 degrees. Thanks to these features, even long journeys felt more comfortable than business class on an airplane.

The amenities for rear-seat passengers are also noteworthy. The power comfort doors can be opened and closed smoothly at the touch of a button. Notably, the "belt feeder" function, introduced for the first time in the Maybach brand, greatly enhances convenience for rear passengers. When a passenger sits and closes the door, the seatbelt automatically extends forward for easy reach and retracts after being fastened. While this may seem minor, it demonstrates meticulous attention to detail, as rear passengers in a luxury sedan no longer need to make large movements to fasten their seatbelts.

Mercedes-Maybach S 680 interior. Provided by Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Maybach S 680 second-row rear seat. Provided by Mercedes-Benz

The greatest strength of this vehicle lies in its quietness. The Maybach S-Class incorporates a variety of noise reduction technologies, including next-generation soundproof and thermal-insulating "IR laminated glass," low-noise tires, and thick sound-absorbing materials. During high-speed driving, wind and road noise were effectively suppressed, while in urban traffic, engine and external noises were almost completely blocked. Whether conversing or enjoying music inside the cabin, outside noise was not a distraction regardless of driving conditions.

The driving performance prioritizes smoothness over dynamism. The V12 gasoline engine delivers a maximum output of 630 horsepower and peak torque of 91.7 kg·m. However, the vehicle focuses more on seamless power delivery than simply showcasing performance. In the dedicated Maybach driving mode, acceleration response is softened and gear shifts are smoothed to enhance rear-seat comfort. The AIRMATIC suspension and adaptive damping system continuously monitor road conditions to control body movement. As a result, vibrations were barely noticeable even on bumpy roads, and the vehicle automatically lowers itself at high speeds to ensure stability.

Safety and convenience features are befitting of a flagship model. Digital lights, rear-seat airbags, and a driving assistance package come standard. The infotainment system centers on the second-generation AI-based Mercedes MBUX vehicle control system and augmented reality navigation. Dedicated rear-seat tablets and premium audio equipment are arranged to create the feeling of an exclusive space for VIPs.

The domestic selling price varies by trim. The Maybach S 680 4MATIC I test drove is priced at 393.6 million won. Even among imported flagship sedans in the same class, it ranks among the most expensive.

However, the Maybach S-Class is not simply the most expensive or the most powerful vehicle. Its spaciousness, advanced convenience features, and above all, its maximized quietness make it especially appealing for those considering a chauffeur-driven vehicle. The design that prioritizes the rear seats over the driver's seat is the key differentiator of this model.

Mercedes-Maybach S 680. Provided by Mercedes-Benz