Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class 2022 Review

In the luxury sedan market, extended wheelbase and exclusive customization experiences have always been core demands of top-tier buyers. This also places models like the Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class at the pinnacle of this niche market. The 2022 Maybach S 580 4Matic, as a mainstay model in the lineup, not only continues the luxurious genes of the Maybach brand but also enhances practicality with upgrades to its hybrid system and intelligent configurations. This test drive aims to evaluate its actual performance from daily usage scenarios in terms of luxury, driving performance, and technological features, to see if this nearly RM 2 million vehicle meets the expectations of its target audience.

From a distance, the body proportions of the Maybach S 580 4Matic are remarkably elegant. Its 5469mm length and 3396mm wheelbase visually emphasize the advantage of being "longer." The side profile features lines that run seamlessly from the front to the rear without excessive or complex designs, but the elongated hood and rear-set cabin positioning enhance the dignified presence of a luxury sedan. The front face adopts Maybach's exclusive vertical-bar chrome grille, paired with sharp LED headlight clusters on each side, delivering high recognizability. The upright three-pointed star ornament on the hood is a direct symbol of identity, while the chrome trim on the lower part of the body further enhances its refinement. At the rear, the triangular LED tail lamps feature a clear internal structure and offer good recognizability when illuminated. The dual exhaust pipes with chrome finish also add a touch of sportiness. Notably, the car is equipped with 21-inch multi-spoke wheels and 265/35 R21 tires, which align with its luxurious positioning while laying the foundation for driving performance.

Opening the car door, one is immediately greeted by a strong sense of luxury in the interior. The dashboard is extensively wrapped in genuine leather, paired with wood grain panels and metal trims, offering a delicate touch and a visually rich texture. The 12.8-inch central touchscreen is located at the center of the dashboard, featuring a high fluidity in its interface, and supports both touch and voice controls. The fully digital instrument cluster displays a wealth of vehicle information, including the operational status of the hybrid system. The addition of an HUD (head-up display) system allows the driver to access key information like speed and navigation without lowering their head. The front seats support electric adjustment, heating, and massage functions. The headrests adopt Maybach's signature pillow-like design, providing excellent wrapping and support. More importantly, rear passengers can adjust the position of the front passenger seat through the central armrest control area to further expand their legroom.

The rear area is the core highlight of the Maybach S 580 4Matic. Both individual seats support electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The left passenger seat is also equipped with an electric adjustable footrest and Ottoman function, allowing it to recline to an almost flat position at the touch of a button. The central armrest integrates a control screen, enabling adjustments for air conditioning, seats, and the rear entertainment system. The rear LCD screens meet passengers' entertainment needs. In addition, the car comes standard with a Burmester 3D surround sound system (15 speakers) and a fragrance system, further enhancing the luxurious atmosphere of the cabin. In terms of space, a 180cm tall passenger sitting in the rear has over two fist-widths of legroom and about one fist of headroom, comfortably meeting long-distance travel needs. As for storage space, the trunk capacity is 470 liters, which, though not particularly large, is sufficient to accommodate luggage for everyday trips.

In terms of powertrain, the Maybach S 580 4Matic is equipped with a 4.0T V8 turbocharged engine and a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering a maximum engine power of 503PS and a maximum motor power of 20PS, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 4.8 seconds. During actual driving, the electric motor provides some assistance at the start, allowing for quick throttle response without the sluggish feel typical of traditional large-displacement engines. During mid-to-high-speed acceleration, the V8 engine offers ample power reserves, and pressing the accelerator deeply generates a continuous surge of thrust. The transmission has a clear and smooth shifting logic, virtually imperceptible when gears are changed.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel provides moderate weight and precise direction. Despite its large body size, the vehicle does not feel cumbersome when driving on urban roads. The chassis uses front and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort, effectively filtering road bumps. Even when crossing speed bumps or uneven roads, passengers inside the car hardly feel any significant vibration. However, during cornering, the suspension still offers sufficient support, keeping the body roll within a reasonable range without compromising much on handling for the sake of comfort. The braking system is also very stable, with linear and confident stopping power.

As for fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 11.7L/100km. In actual driving conditions, the city fuel consumption is about 13-14L/100km, while on highways it can drop to 9-10L/100km. For a 4.0T V8 vehicle, this fuel consumption performance can be considered reasonable. Regarding noise control, the vehicle exhibits excellent insulation. At high speeds, wind and road noise are well suppressed, and only a slight engine growl can be heard during aggressive acceleration, which is not intrusive.

In terms of intelligent driving assistance features, the vehicle comes standard with lane change assist, lane departure warning, active braking, 360-degree panoramic cameras, and automatic parking. In actual use, the lane-keeping system has high recognition accuracy, and the active braking system reacts promptly, effectively enhancing driving safety. The automatic parking function can easily handle both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces, which is very practical for such a large car.

Overall, the 2022 Maybach S 580 4Matic's core strengths lie in its top-tier rear seat comfort, excellent power performance, and a wealth of luxurious features. Compared to peers like the BMW 7 Series or Audi A8L, the Maybach S-Class offers a stronger emphasis on brand prestige and rear-seat exclusive experience. Although it is priced slightly higher, it provides a more unique sense of luxury.

This car is suitable for business professionals who prioritize rear-seat comfort or families seeking the ultimate luxury experience. Whether for daily commuting or long-distance travel, it provides a comfortable and convenient driving and riding experience. If you have sufficient budget and are looking for a luxury sedan that meets both business and family needs, the Maybach S 580 4Matic is undoubtedly a choice worth considering.