12-cylinder salute: Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition revealed

Meet the limited-run Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition, an opulent S-Class celebration (complete with 24-carat gold trim) of the brand’s long tradition of 12-cylinder engines…

Just 50 units of the V12 Edition will be built
Celebrates nearly 100 years of V12 engines
24-carat gold trim included, inside and out

Downsizing be damned? Mercedes-Benz has revealed the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition, a limited-production version of the S680 limousine conceived to celebrate the ultra-luxury sub-brand’s long history – dating back nearly a century – of 12-cylinder engines.

Set to be available in unspecified “select markets”, just 50 examples of this special S-Class will be produced. The V12 Edition offers what the German automaker calls “bespoke design elements” through its “Manufaktur” programme.

Mercedes‑Benz says the Maybach V12 Edition is an “almost fully equipped Mercedes‑Maybach S680”, with equipment highlights including electrically operated comfort rear doors, active road-noise compensation, rear-axle steering, active suspension and up to 5 large screens in the cabin.

Like the standard (for lack of a better term) S680, this new limited-run derivative employs a turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine that delivers 450 kW and 900 Nm to all 4 corners via a 9-speed automatic transmission. The 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 4.5 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph.

The Mercedes‑Maybach V12 Edition is set apart by its 2-tone exterior paint finish – olive metallic on the upper body and obsidian black metallic on the lower – including a contrasting silver metallic pinstripe. The brand claims the application of this particular paint finish takes “up to 10 working days”, which is twice as long as Maybach’s usual signature 2-tone configuration.

The limited-edition variant rides on forged wheels likewise finished in olive metallic, while the edition-specific Maybach emblem on the C-pillar is complemented by a chrome and gold medal featuring a prominent “12”. This 24-carat gold medal is adorned with a diamond engraving in a 12-part ring division, while the medal inlay (likewise fashioned from 24-carat gold) features a fine V-pattern engraving.

Meanwhile, the Nappa leather interior comes in saddle brown, paired with high-gloss brown burr walnut wood trim that extends to the handcrafted steering wheel. The roof liner is finished in diamond-quilted saddle brown, while special-edition embroidery and a “1 of 50” badge in the centre console are further touches.

The rear centre console features the Maybach emblem and a commemorative medal framed by 12 golden circles. This likewise handcrafted element takes up to 7 working days to complete, according to Mercedes-Benz.

Each vehicle also includes bespoke accessories such as Robbe & Berking silver-plated champagne flutes (with edition-specific engraving), a luggage-compartment mat with edging in saddle brown, a handcrafted key giftbox and an edition-specific key ring.

“The Mercedes‑Maybach V12 Edition is a limited release of just 50 cars, showcasing the brand’s legacy. With roots tracing back to the early 20th century Maybach Zeppelin models, this edition celebrates our iconic V12 engine. It offers bespoke design through the Manufaktur programme, reflecting a tradition of combining advanced technology and exclusive style,” says Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition?

A: The Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition is a limited-production version of the S680 limousine, created to celebrate the brand’s long history of 12-cylinder engines. Only 50 units will be built, each featuring bespoke design elements including 24-carat gold trim, a unique 2-tone paint finish and a luxurious Nappa leather interior.

Q: How many units of the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition will be produced?

A: Only 50 examples will be produced globally, making it a highly exclusive and limited-run vehicle.

Q: What are the unique features of the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition?

A: Key features of the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition include 24-carat gold trim on the exterior and interior, a special 2-tone olive metallic and obsidian black metallic paint finish, edition-specific forged wheels and a Nappa leather interior in saddle brown. It also comes with bespoke accessories like silver-plated champagne flutes and a handcrafted key gift box.