The Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet offers an example of how luxury can be taken to a higher degree. With its powerful V12 engine, portal axles, automated fabric top, and a range of exclusive amenities found in the rear cabin, this limited-edition vehicle exceeds the expectations of the most discerning customers. Furthermore, the open-top G-Class is the first off-road vehicle released under the aegis of the Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand, following the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and the S 650 Cabriolet.
When was the last time you engaged with a car that made you feel extraordinary? You no doubt will have a similar experience when riding in the rear of the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet. Developed by the experts of Mercedes-Benz, this vehicle is an alteration of the iconic G-class, and includes the portal axles of the 4×4² version, the turbocharged V-12 of the G65 AMG, an extended wheelbase, and rear seats sourced from the Mercedes-Maybach S-class. Daimler's CEO Dieter Zetsche was reportedly impressed by the project, and this is likely why the production limit went from minuscule to 99 units.
It is not anticipated that there should be any difficulty in selling the given quantity, as our impressions from the accommodations of this colossal machine were mostly positive. Sitting on gleaming 22-inch aluminum wheels cloaked with 325/55R-22 tires, this lavish vehicle appears ready to conquer anything – and indeed has the mechanics to back up the outward visual proclamation. Rarely have we come across a vehicle that is capable of handling off-road circumstances with such effortlessness. Rocky surfaces, alarming holes, and mud-filled swamps are all simply resolved quickly. Moreover, the Landaulet has an impressive ground clearance of 17.7 inches, implying that any bushes it crosses over on its journey are likely to remain intact. As is the case with most G-Class automobiles, a low-range transfer situation is included as a standard feature, as are locking front, center, and rear differentials.
The muted and polished AMG-sourced 621-horsepower V-12 engine allows for discernible indications of its performance capabilities. According to Mercedes, The G650 Landaulet is capable of hitting a speed of 60 mph in less than six seconds, and could potentially accelerate up to a rate of 150 mph if it were not restrained at a maximum of 112 mph – a wise decision. Speed does not appear to be the priority for this G-wagen, though upon command from the passengers in the back, the chauffeur could easily move the vehicle forward at a noteworthy pace.
The forward cabin in the G650 Landaulet is largely unchanged from a regular G-wagen that has been fully equipped. The instruments and switches have all been taken from a range of different Mercedes vehicles; the environment is timeworn, straightforward and strikingly different from any other contemporary SUV.
Dramatically different is the interior of the rear cabin. Those “first-class” Maybach seats are able to inclined close to a flat position, come with an invigorating massage function, and contain fold-out tray tables. Robbe & Berking should be commended for their inclusion of small silver champagne flutes which can be accessed in a discrete compartment. To highlight the style of the G650 – along with the associated Landaulet designation – the rear also contains a replicated layout from the G-wagen’s front center console and two glove compartments with corresponding covers. Furthermore, there are eight handles for passengers to conveniently utilize, and the electrically powered partition can be rapidly changed from a transparent display to an opaque one with the flick of a switch. Finally, two soft Maybach pillows complete what is the most lavish interior we have had the pleasure of experiencing.
The fabric top of the vehicle is amply cushioned and can be lowered electrically within approximately twenty seconds, activated solely by a command from the rear seat. It is a prominent appeal of this automobile to be able to do this and the occupant is then able to observe their environment, experience the fresh air outside, or be seen by admiring onlookers.
The G650 Landaulet is not available for purchase in the United States officially, however it is likely an individual of appropriate financial standing and contacts could make arrangements to obtain one through non-conventional methods. With the proper influence, these issues can be resolved with ease. The exact cost for this automobile remains undisclosed, however it is estimated that the cost would be in the region of half a million Euros or around $550,000 based on the current exchange rate.