The new Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 transforms Mercedes’ iconic roadster into something far more exclusive. With a handcrafted cabin, twin-turbo V8 power, and a starting price around $235,000, it pushes the SL into true ultra-luxury territory.
What makes this launch especially notable is the balance it strikes. You get 577 horsepower and all-wheel drive confidence, but efficiency sits at just 16 MPG combined. This isn’t about saving fuel — it’s about indulgent grand touring.
What’s New for the Latest SL 680
The biggest shift is positioning. Unlike AMG versions that lean heavily toward aggressive performance, this Maybach variant prioritizes refinement.
It arrives as a single, fully equipped configuration. Buyers personalize through exclusive paints, wheel designs, and curated interior themes rather than mechanical add-ons. The goal is tailored luxury without complexity.
Exterior Design: Elegant Over Aggressive
Signature Maybach Details
The SL 680 keeps the low-slung proportions of the standard SL but adds Maybach-specific trim elements and subtle brightwork. The grille pattern and badging immediately signal its premium positioning.
Large multi-spoke wheels and a finely insulated fabric soft-top complete the look. With the roof raised, road and wind noise are impressively muted for a convertible.
This is a roadster designed for arrival as much as acceleration.
Interior Comfort and Space
Two Seats, Maximum Indulgence
Inside, the SL 680 delivers the craftsmanship expected from the Maybach name. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats come standard, wrapped in premium leather with meticulous stitching.
The cabin feels more like a high-end lounge than a sports car cockpit.
Rear seating isn’t part of the equation — this is strictly a two-passenger experience. Trunk space measures roughly 8.5 cubic feet, enough for a weekend getaway but not extended travel.
Performance and Ride Quality
Twin-Turbo V8 Power
Under the hood sits a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Power flows through a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Acceleration to 60 mph takes about four seconds. Highway merging feels effortless, and passing requires only light throttle input.
Where this model stands apart is suspension tuning. It rides softer than AMG variants, absorbing imperfect pavement with ease. Steering remains accurate but relaxed, reinforcing its grand touring character.
This is performance without harshness.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Costs
Efficiency is not the headline feature.
The EPA rates the SL 680 at 14 MPG city, 21 MPG highway, and 16 MPG combined. Premium fuel is required.
For drivers covering around 1,000 miles per month, fuel costs could approach $240–$250 depending on regional pricing. It’s a reasonable trade-off for buyers in this segment, but clearly not economy-focused.
Technology and Safety
The SL 680 includes the full Mercedes advanced driver assistance suite.
Infotainment Highlights
An 11.9-inch adjustable touchscreen anchors the center console, paired with a fully digital instrument cluster and head-up display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a premium Burmester audio system.
Safety Systems
Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system are all included.
Official crash ratings specific to this Maybach variant are not yet published.
How It Compares to Rivals
| Model | Starting Price | Horsepower | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 | ~$235,000 | 577 hp | 16 MPG |
| Bentley Continental GTC | ~$265,000 | 542 hp | 17 MPG |
| Aston Martin DB12 Volante | ~$265,000 | 671 hp | 17 MPG |
The Bentley edges slightly ahead in efficiency, while the Aston Martin claims the horsepower crown. The Maybach counters with superior ride comfort and a lower starting price.
Why It Matters
For buyers seeking a convertible that prioritizes serenity over sharp handling, the SL 680 fills a unique niche. It blends V8 performance with limousine-grade craftsmanship in a compact, two-seat format.
Families won’t find practicality here, and efficiency-minded drivers should look elsewhere. But for those wanting open-air prestige with genuine comfort, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 stands as one of the most refined grand tourers available today.