This is the new Mercedes-Maybach SL 680, a luxury V8 cruiser

If the new Mercedes SL suffers from a bit of an identity crisis, this really won’t help. Because this is the Mercedes-Maybach SL ‘Monogram Series’, touted as the sportiest ever Maybach.

It’s the first time a Maybach badge has adorned one of Mercedes-Benz’s most famous model lines, which in 2024 is spun off an AMG platform. Literally then, it is everything Mercedes runs, in one, let’s say ‘uniquely’ designed version.

And it’ll run alright. Maybach takes the SL63 as its base, which means that tried und true 4.0-litre biturbo V8 punches out a familiar 577bhp and 590lb ft of torque, allied to a nine-speed automatic and four-wheel-drive.

Curiously, it’s slower than the base car – 0-62mph takes 4.1s in the Maybach, versus the AMG 63’s 3.6s – though raw speed clearly isn’t the point here. Because this Maybach SL gets a “noise-optimised” exhaust (read: quieter), a comfort-orientated tune to its adaptive suspension, soft engine mounts and an “extensive insulation and absorption package”.

Then, the entire thing is submerged into an ocean of Maybach… ness. There are two options available: the two-tone metallic black over red featured most prominently in the gallery above (called ‘Red Ambience’), or the ‘White Ambience’ car (black bonnet, white body).

That bonnet is subject to much special treatment of course – including the badge repeated all over it and then lacquered – while the radiator grille is chromed and illuminated. Elsewhere, you’ll spot rose gold accents, new front and rear skirts, a new rear diffuser, and 21in forged alloys.

You’ll want to take your shoes off before entering the cabin, mind, because there’s ‘sustainably tanned’ white nappa leather mixed with chrome trim, and stainless-steel for the pedals and door sills. You’ll be pleased to hear the adjustable touchscreen display is also present and correct. Joy.

“The Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series adds a sporty two-seater to our model family for the ultimate open-air pleasure,” said Maybach boss Daniel Lescow. “It combines a dynamic driving experience with everything that characterises a Mercedes-Maybach.”

Ah yes, character. Because this is a car wearing a Mercedes-AMG platform and drivetrain, that graduated from the Mercedes-Maybach School of Bejewelling with obsidian black honours, wearing one of Mercedes-Benz’s most famous nameplates.