KUALA LUMPUR (March 1): Mercedes-Maybach, the sub brand of Mercedes-Benz, has launched its flagship models — the Mercedes-Maybach S Class and GLS SUV (sport utility vehicle) — aiming to establish the brand as the pioneer in automotive luxury among local luxury car owners.

Prices of the new flagship models start at a cool RM1.92 million for the S-Class and RM1.79 million for the GLS SUV.

“Mercedes-Maybach is the pinnacle of automotive excellence at Mercedes-Benz. As we celebrate 100 years of Maybach’s unique heritage at the forefront of luxury experience, we remain passionate about driving the brand forward to set the highest standards in style, comfort and outstanding craftsmanship.

“These new vehicles today are taking the next step towards exclusive luxury, setting the benchmark in this segment,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and chief executive officer Sagree Sardien.

Sagree said the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class offers the ultimate luxury with a number of exclusive features making it suitable for chauffeured driving, powered by an eight-cylinder petrol engine (M176) with an integrated second-generation starter-alternator (ISG) and 48-volt on-board electrical system.

The vehicle also sports the "Dynamic Select" function which allows the driver to individually modify the characteristics of the power-train ESP, suspension and steering.

It is equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors, which can be closed by a gesture of the hand, and stopped by extending an arm.

In terms of acoustic comfort, the S-Class implements active road noise compensation, shielding its occupants from exterior noise.

Up to five OLED display screens are available, making it easier to control vehicle and comfort functions, including a 12.8-inch OLED central display as a high-tech control centre.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS aims to set a new standard of luxury in the SUV segment, combining the body design and technical basis of the GLS with the luxury of a top-class saloon car.

Also equipped with a V8 engine, it can develop 410kW (557hp) and 730Nm of torque with the combination of the 48-volt system EQ boost — developed exclusively for Maybach.

The SUV features electrically extending running boards, making accessing and leaving the high seating position convenient and safe. When the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly and an illuminated running board quickly and silently emerges from the access or egress side.