2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class: V12 Retained, Hybrid V8

Maybach’s 2027 S‑Class facelift blends tradition with electrification

Mercedes-Maybach has revealed the refreshed 2027 S‑Class, a mid‑cycle update that tightens styling, deepens cabin luxury and brings a significant digital upgrade. But the headline for enthusiasts is less uniform: Maybach will keep the iconic V12 in some markets while offering a highly engineered mild‑hybrid V8 in others — a clear example of how luxury brands are balancing emissions rules, customer expectations and local market strategies.

Two very different S 680s, depending on where you live

The most powerful S‑Class badge, S 680, now reflects two distinct technical philosophies. In the United States, Maybach retains a familiar AMG‑built 6.0‑liter V12 with twin turbochargers. That SOHC V12 puts out 621 hp and 664 lb‑ft (900 Nm), serving buyers who still prioritize the classical, silky V12 character.

In Australia the S 680 is reinterpreted: a flat‑plane crank V8 with twin turbos is augmented by 48‑volt mild‑hybrid electronics. On paper this package is potent — Maybach rates it at 450 kW (603 hp) and 850 Nm (627 lb‑ft). The 48‑volt starter‑generator contributes roughly 23 hp and 151 lb‑ft (205 Nm) of instant assist, while Lanchester balance shafts are used to smooth refinement and mimic V12 calm.

Why the split? Regional emissions regulations, taxation structures and customer demand are nudging manufacturers toward electrified downsizing in some markets, while others still allow the V12 to survive as a halo engine.

Where the rest of the line sits

Below the S 680, the updated range includes:

• S 580 (mild‑hybrid V8): about 530 hp and 553 lb‑ft (750 Nm)
• S 580 e (plug‑in EQ Hybrid): a six‑cylinder combined with a more powerful electric motor; in Australia the electric range is expected to exceed 100 km (62 miles)

The naming can be confusing — the S 580 is a conventional mild‑hybrid V8, while the S 580 e is a plug‑in hybrid with a different drivetrain layout and extended EV capability.

Design and presence: more Maybach drama

The facelift sharpens the Maybach’s visual identity. The radiator grille is larger and more sculptural, framed by a luminous surround and a subtly illuminated Maybach script. Options (where regulations allow) include illuminated C‑pillar Maybach emblems and the standing Mercedes star on the hood.

To fill the arches, buyers can choose 20‑ or 21‑inch forged wheels. A tasteful bit of theatre: on the silver forged wheels the center three‑pointed star sits on a ball‑bearing mount that keeps it upright while the car rolls. Even lighting elements get the luxury treatment — each front light carries two three‑pointed stars, with three per rear unit.

The Night Series lineup gains a Nautic Blue Metallic finish, broadening the palette of darker, more discreet options.

Interior: refinement, not revolution

Maybach focused on deepening the cabin’s cocoon rather than reinventing it. Key changes and highlights include:

• Redesigned center console and refreshed ambient lighting
• Open‑pore wood trim and expanded MANUFAKTUR personalization
• Executive rear seats with refrigerated compartment, power comfort rear doors and silver‑plated champagne flutes
• New leather‑free upholstery in Australia: ARTICO synthetic leather paired with Mirville textile (a linen and recycled polyester weave), finished with contrasting piping and diamond quilting

Technology gets a major boost. The car ships with MB.OS running fourth‑generation MBUX and a standard MBUX Superscreen array: a 14.4‑inch central display flanked by a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3‑inch passenger screen. Rear passengers get dual 13.1‑inch entertainment displays, new remote controls and integrated cameras to support video conferencing.

Mercedes says the system allows more flexible app organization and over‑the‑air updates to refresh key vehicle functions, ADAS and infotainment across the ownership cycle. Expanded voice and AI capabilities are a selling point: Maybach lists integration with Google Gemini, ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing Search among supported services.

Tech and chassis: ride quality remains a priority

Regardless of engine choice, every 2027 Maybach S‑Class uses a revised AIRMATIC air suspension with predictive damping. The system ingests car‑to‑X data to anticipate road imperfections and adjusts damping before the wheels reach them — a proactive approach that aims to keep occupants insulated from bumps and expansion joints.

Personalization and production

Maybach expands its bespoke options substantially. Buyers can now choose from more than 150 exterior paints and 400 interior colors, including two new MANUFAKTUR exterior shades and four fresh MANUFAKTUR interior combinations. For highly bespoke commissions, the Made to Measure program widens the bespoke portfolio.

Production of the facelifted Maybach S‑Class is already underway at Mercedes’ Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, Germany.

Quick specs & highlights

• Top US S 680: 6.0‑liter twin‑turbo V12 — 621 hp / 664 lb‑ft (900 Nm)
• Australian S 680: flat‑plane V8 + 48V mild‑hybrid — 450 kW (603 hp) / 850 Nm (627 lb‑ft)
• S 580: ~530 hp / 553 lb‑ft (750 Nm)
• S 580 e: plug‑in six‑cylinder + electric motor; Australia EV range >100 km (62 miles)
• Infotainment: MBUX Superscreen (14.4" + 12.3" + 12.3"), OTA updates
• Suspension: AIRMATIC with predictive damping (car‑to‑X enabled)
• Personalization: 150+ paints, 400 interior colors, Made to Measure program

"The facelift keeps Maybach’s luxury DNA intact while admitting that the road ahead is electrified and regional," said one industry analyst. The 2027 S‑Class facelift is a reminder that even the most opulent models must adapt — offering V12 allure where possible, and clever electrified alternatives where necessary.