Mercedes plans new Maybach SUV
A Mercedes-Maybach SUV is 'likely' to be produced, as the firm looks to exploit the potential of its upmarket sub-brand.
A Mercedes-Maybach SUV is 'likely' to be produced, as the firm looks to exploit the potential of its upmarket sub-brand.
Following the demise of the standalone Maybach brand in 2013, the nameplate is being relaunched this year on the Mercedes-Maybach S-class, which is larger, more refined and more luxuriously equipped than the standard Mercedes-Benz S-class.
However, company bosses have now admitted that the Maybach name will be used as a sub-brand for more ultra-exclusive models, just as AMG is used as a sub-brand for performance cars.
“The theory is that we will do more Maybach models,” admitted Martin Hulder, project manager for the S-class. “But it will not be for all vehicles; any Maybach must make sense, because it is not just about putting an emblem on a car.
“Buyers rightly have high expectations of a Maybach, and we must be sure to always deliver on them.”
The Mercedes-Maybach S-class was developed over two years, and more than 70 per cent of sales are expected to be in Asia. As such, the Mercedes GLS is hotly tipped to be the next car to carry the Maybach name, because its size makes it popular with Chinese buyers who prize rear cabin space.
If launched, the Mercedes-Maybach SUV would compete in the same ultra-luxury territory as the upcoming Bentley Bentayga, and the long-rumoured Rolls-Royce SUV.
RELATED ARTICLES
Automobili Lamborghini launches new corporate look after two decades
This evolution is part of the broad transformation process denoted Direzione Cor Tauri, the strategy that embodies Lambo...
NXP launches integrated platform to simplify SDV development, cut costs
Open S32 CoreRide platform combines processing, vehicle networking and system power management with integrated software ...
Yamaha partners Lola Cars to develop and supply powertrains for Formula E
Japanese automaker aims to acquire cutting-edge electric technology in the premier EV race series. This multi-year partn...