Official details are still few and far between. A brief teaser video published by Mercedes-Maybach confirms the S650 is based on the existing Mercedes-Benz S600 Cabriolet, and it suggests the convertible receives a handful of brand-specific add-ons including chrome trim on the front bumper and a sprinkling of Maybach emblems. Connoisseurs will immediately recognize the S650 as a Maybach, but designers intentionally retained a discreet look.
Maybach has made the S600 Cabriolet — which stands out as one of the most luxurious open-top machines on the market — even more lavish. Inside, the passengers are treated to a Burmester sound system, leather-upholstered seats that are both heated and ventilated, and brand-specific trim. The storage bin lid is engraved with the car’s serial number to remind the front passengers that they’re not riding in a standard S600.
Power likely comes from a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine borrowed from the S600, though the S650 nameplate suggests the mill benefits from more grunt. The 12 generates 523 horsepower and 612 pound-feet of torque in its standard state of tune, and it spins the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Buyers who want a S650 should get in line as quickly as possible. Mercedes-Maybach will build just 300 examples, and only 100 of them have been earmarked for the United States market, according to The Detroit Free Press. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet; the standard S600 carries a base price of about $191,000 and we wouldn’t be surprised to see the S650 approach the $250,000 mark.
Stay tuned, the Mercedes-Maybach S650 is scheduled to make its official debut on Wednesday. Digital Trends’ car team will be live in the City of Angels to bring you live images and a full set of details as soon as the veil is lifted.
