Maybach is a subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler.
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Mercedes-Benz
Maybach
In the 1920s and 1930s, Mercedes-Benz and Maybach
were the leading luxury car brands in Europe. Maybach
- established by Wilhelm Maybach, who had designed
the first Mercedes car in 1901 - stood for the ultimate
in exclusivity and elegance. Now Mercedes brings back
the marque this fall in Europe and in the spring to
the United States. Nearly every detail of the ultra
luxury sedans, available as the Maybach 57 and the
longer Maybach 62, will be "commissioned"
by the prospective owner, so no two will be alike.
Mercedes says 2 million permutations are possible.
Both models will be outfitted with a 550-horsepower,
5.5-liter, 12-cylinder engine equipped with twin turbochargers.
Gadgets and innovations: Ten airbags are standard.
Options include custom-made luggage and golf bags,
champagne goblets of sterling silver, a humidor, heated
steering wheel and fluffy rugs for the floors. The
rear seats recline like those in an airplane's business-class
cabin. Front and rear seats are ventilated to cool
and warm and have individual climate controls. The
panoramic glass roof goes dark when low voltage is
applied. The glass partition between driver and passenger
comes with an intercom. Ultrasonic sensors in front
and back help the driver park. Keyless-Go automatically
unlocks the door and trunk as the driver approaches.
Telematics: "Linguatronic" voice control
operates the audio, communication and navigation systems.
COMAND APS performs numerous functions, from operating
the phone, which can be cordless with two handsets,
to accessing the Internet. TeleAid provides help in
emergencies with the push of a button. DVD and CD
changers, MP3 player and cassette players can be installed.
Every seat gets 600-watt Dolby surround sound. A refrigerated
compartment accommodates beverages and snacks.
Base price range: About $300,000.
