India-bound Mercedes-Maybach SL Spotted Testing Overseas; Shows Large Chrome Grille and More

The fact that Mercedes is developing the first-ever Maybach SL is not a secret. In May 2022, a teaser image of the Mercedes-Maybach SL showing part of its front end was released. Over two years after this, the roadster's luxury version, presently in prototype form, was seen in a few spy photos last week. Another tester was recently spotted testing overseas. This time, the colours on the prototype were reversed from the previous one, which paired a red ragtop with a black body. Meanwhile, in the latest spy shots, the top is black and the body has a vibrant red finish. The Maybach treatment for SL will undoubtedly draw attention from those who prefer a more enhanced luxurious experience.

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Mercedes-Maybach SL: Design

Except for the hidden front end, which probably conceals Maybach's design modifications, the latest test mule's bodywork looks similar to the standard SL. The official teaser shared by the brand revealed modified design elements like a glossy grille, a Maybach logo on the hood, and the signature Mercedes ornament.

A distinguishing feature of Maybach cars, the prototype has dual trapezoidal exhaust pipes. This feature sets the Maybach SL apart from the standard model. The manufacturer adopts a different strategy from the four-cylinder SL, which has quad circular tailpipes, while the V8 vehicles (which include the E Performance hybrid) have four trapezoidal pipes. Anticipate further distinction with custom alloy wheels and a more extensively chromed body.

Mercedes-Maybach SL: Interior

The cabin will see the most significant modifications, with Maybach providing more luxurious materials and a higher degree of customisation. This will justify the SL's premium price tag, as it will come in a wider selection of paint jobs, compared to those offered under the Mercedes Manufaktur name. The test mule in the picture has red interior upholstery to go with the retractable roof's colour scheme.

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Mercedes-Maybach SL: Expected Powertrain

The details regarding the upcoming car's powertrain are still unknown. The Mercedes-AMG SL's most potent powertrain options will probably be carried over to the vehicle. Given that the competitor Bentley Continental GTC Speed just switched to an electric V8 setup, a 12-cylinder unit seems unlikely. The top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG S63 S E Performance PHEV generates an overall 1,420Nm of peak torque and 794bhp of maximum power, which should be more than enough for a premium offering.

According to several market reports, the forthcoming Mercedes model will likely launch in India next year. The Mercedes-Maybach SL should arrive in India via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. Globally, the car is expected to rival the Ferrari Roma Spider, Maserati GranCabrio, and Bentley Continental GTC. 

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