Currently reading: New 2026 Maybach S-Class revealed: Stuttgart's Spur rival returns

Rarefied new flagship is intended to offer uncompromising comfort and customisation

Mercedes has lifted the covers off the new Maybach S-Class, transforming its flagship saloon into an opulent limousine.

It will be available with a choice of inline six, V8 or V12 petrol engines, though the V12 will be exclusive to “select countries” but the UK is understood not to be one of them.

Key changes include an enlarged, vertically slatted grille, in which the ‘Maybach’ wordmark is now lit.

The headlights, Mercedes star and Maybach logo are also finished in rose gold.

Inside, it gets extra insulation to help reduce unwanted noise, vibration and harshness. There is also a specific Maybach drive mode “entirely focused” on passenger comfort. And, for the first time, artificial leather and cloth upholstery can be had as optional extras.

“Our goal is for every client to say ‘Wow!’,” said Vjekoslav Crndic, a consultant at Mercedes-Maybach’s Centre of Excellence.

To that end, buyers can choose from more than 150 exterior paint colours and more than 400 interiors, as well as a new aerodisc-style wheel design composed entirely of Maybach logos.

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Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Staff Writer

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, creating content for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

He is the proud owner of a Mk4 Mazda MX-5 but still feels pangs of guilt over selling his first car, a Fiat Panda 100HP.

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tuga 24 March 2026
WOW!

That's incredibly tacky. Hard pass.

Andrew1 24 March 2026
Really, how do you tell?
Andrew1 24 March 2026
Please don't pass, they are relying on selling one to you.