2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class or S-Class: What the Extra Money Actually Buys

What is the difference between the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and the S-Class?

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is a longer S-Class with more standard rear comfort. It adds 7.1 inches of wheelbase and 3.3 inches of rear legroom. Both lines are 2027 models on mbusa.com, and both come from MBUSA’s updated S-Class. MBUSA calls the 2027 S-Class an “extensive update” with “more than 50 percent of the vehicle newly developed, updated and refined.” For the 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, MBUSA uses the phrase “Most extensive update in history of the Maybach S-Class.”

MBUSA lists the 2027 S-Class Sedan as the S 500 4MATIC and S 580 4MATIC. The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes as the Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC and S 680 4MATIC. All four use 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 9-speed 9G-TRONIC transmission.

How much more does a 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class cost than an S-Class?

By our arithmetic, the 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC starts $75,600 above the 2027 S 580 4MATIC in MSRP. Both are starting MSRPs that exclude destination and delivery, taxes, title, registration and options, and they are not dealer selling prices. The figures are those mbusa.com listed on 10/14/2026. The S 580 pair is the fairest comparison, because both cars use the same V8. The S 500 and the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 sit at either end of the range. Their starting MSRP spread is $134,900, again by our arithmetic.

Options change both totals. Many items that cost extra on the S-Class are standard on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, as the next sections show. Build both on mbusa.com with the features you want, then compare.

What does the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class add in the rear seat?

More legroom and a longer list of standard rear comfort features, led by power Executive rear seats with a calf rest and footrest. MBUSA lists rear legroom at 47.2 inches in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and 43.9 inches in the S-Class. On the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, MBUSA says the Executive seat “can power-recline up to 43°, and includes both a power calf rest and a power footrest.”

• Executive rear seats. Standard on both Mercedes-Maybach models. On the S-Class, they come in the optional Pinnacle Plus Package, offered on the S 580 4MATIC.
• Rear massage and climate. Multicontour rear seats with massage, heated and ventilated rear seats, rear neck heating and heated rear armrests are standard on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. They are optional on the S 580.
• Rear seat-belt presenters. Automatic rear presenters are standard on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
• Seating layout. Both seat five. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class offers an optional four-seat cabin.
• Power rear doors. Standard on the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 and optional on the Mercedes-Maybach S 580. MBUSA does not list them for the S-Class.

The S-Class rear seat is no penalty box. On the S 580, MBUSA says the outboard rear seatbacks “recline up to 37 degrees without reducing legroom.” Power outboard rear seats with memory come standard on the S 580.

Do the Mercedes-Maybach S 580 and S 580 share an engine?

Yes. Both use a 4.0L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive rated at 530 hp. The V12 is reserved for the Mercedes-Maybach S 680. MBUSA says the “621-hp handcrafted V12 engine is exclusive to the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 in the U.S. and select other markets.” It lists 664 lb-ft of torque for that engine. The S 500 uses a 3.0L inline-6 turbo with mild hybrid drive and 442 hp.

MBUSA estimates 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds for the S 580 and 4.3 seconds for both the S 500 and the Mercedes-Maybach S 680. By those estimates, the V12’s extra power does not make the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 quicker to 60 mph than the S 580. MBUSA lists a 130-mph electronically limited top speed for every 2027 model in both lines.

Both lines need premium unleaded gasoline. MBUSA lists a 20.0-gallon tank for the S-Class and 20.1 gallons for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Heights are close as well, at 59.2 and 59.4 inches.

A short drive tells you more than the numbers. Schedule a test drive and ask to ride in the back as well as drive.

Which features are standard on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class but optional on the S-Class?

Rear entertainment, 4-zone climate, Burmester 4D sound (optional on the S 580), the 3D cluster with augmented reality head-up display and 10° rear-axle steering. The table compares the S 580 pair, using MBUSA’s 2027 spec pages and Quick Reference Guides.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class also brings its own design details as standard. MBUSA lists an illuminated Maybach grille, Nappa leather ceiling trim, Maybach pedals and a logo projection with Maybach lettering. DYNAMIC SELECT gains a dedicated Maybach drive program.

Optional Mercedes-Maybach items include folding rear tables, a rear refrigerated compartment and silver-plated champagne flutes. MBUSA lists 10° rear-axle steering as a Digital Extra; learn more about the Mercedes-Benz app and Digital Extras.

Both lines offer MANUFAKTUR personalization. MBUSA says Maybach MANUFAKTUR offers more than 50 paint and 20 leather colors, and the S-Class offers nearly 50 MANUFAKTUR Exclusive colors. MBUSA notes: “The MANUFAKTUR Exclusive paintwork and upholstery options are individually applied to your vehicle order through a specialized process. Availability may be limited by capacity. Please see your dealer for more information.”

Where does the S-Class come out ahead?

Price, efficiency and maneuverability. The S-Class has a lower starting MSRP, higher EPA estimates and a tighter listed turning circle. These are real reasons to choose it, and they matter for an owner who drives.

• Lower MSRP. The S 500 4MATIC has the lowest starting MSRP of the four 2027 models MBUSA lists.
• Higher EPA estimates. EPA estimates are 23 mpg combined for the S 500 and 19 for the S 580. The Mercedes-Maybach S 580 is 18 and the S 680 is 14.
• Tighter turning circle. MBUSA’s spec pages list 39.0 ft for the S-Class and 40.6 ft for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
• Shorter car. MBUSA’s spec pages list 209.5 in overall for the S-Class and 215.9 in for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
• An announced plug-in hybrid. MBUSA’s 2027 guide lists an S 580e 4MATIC that “Arrives at U.S. dealerships in Q4 2026.” See our plug-in hybrid models page.
• AMG Line styling and sport brakes. The S-Class offers an AMG Line option, and a sport brake system is standard. MBUSA does not list either on the Mercedes-Maybach spec pages.

fueleconomy.gov also flags the 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 with a Gas Guzzler designation. All four models require premium unleaded fuel. EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov; your mileage will vary, as the EPA note in the fine print explains.

Do warranty and roadside coverage differ between the two?

Not in the 2027 passenger car booklet we reviewed. Its New Vehicle Limited Warranty runs 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. MBUSA’s 2027 booklet says it “applies to all Mercedes-Benz Model Variants that are certified for sale in the USA.” We found no Maybach-specific coverage there. MBUSA also posts a separate 2027 Maybach S-Class booklet, which we did not review, so ask us to confirm before you buy.

MBUSA says: “Any vehicle with a Mercedes-Benz Warranty (New Vehicle Limited Warranty, Extended Limited Warranty or Certified Pre-Owned Warranty) is eligible for complimentary Roadside Assistance.” The booklet adds that Roadside Assistance is a separate service from any warranties.

The booklet also notes that “Not all components or adjustments carry a 48 month or 50,000 mile warranty.” Its examples include brake pads, brake discs, glass and wiper blades. Tires are covered against defects in material or workmanship for 12 months and/or 12,000 miles, with conditions on remaining tread depth.

MBUSA does not list complimentary scheduled maintenance for either line. Service A and Service B timing comes from the Maintenance Booklet and the ASSYST PLUS service indicator. Book visits through service scheduling, check recall information, and see our tire center for the larger wheels.

You can also read why Mercedes-Benz service on our site.

Which buyer fits the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and which fits the S-Class?

Choose the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class if you will often ride in the back. Choose the S-Class if you mostly drive yourself and want efficiency and value. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class lists 47.2 inches of rear legroom and more rear comfort features as standard. On the S-Class, many of those items are optional, at a lower starting MSRP. Use these steps to decide.

1. Decide who sits where. If you are usually chauffeured or carry rear passengers, weigh the standard Executive rear seats and 47.2 inches of rear legroom.
2. Price the like-for-like pair. Build an S 580 with the rear options you want and compare it with a Mercedes-Maybach S 580 on mbusa.com.
3. Measure your garage. Compare your garage length, width and door opening with MBUSA’s published dimensions before you order.
4. Drive both, and ride in both. Spend time in the back seat of each car on your test drive.
5. Plan the purchase. Ask about a custom order for the exact build, value your trade and apply for financing online.

How can Richmond drivers compare both cars before buying?

Visit our sales team at 8225 West Broad Street, drive both lines where available, and ask about custom orders and our vehicle finder. We cannot promise a specific car will be on the lot on a given day, so call ahead. Ask about our vehicle finder service, and see contact and directions for our hours.

All four 2027 models listed on mbusa.com come with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. You can read more Mercedes-Benz of Richmond articles, including our other model and service guides.