The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, launched in India on March 17, 2025, at ₹4.2 crore, is a bold blend of sporty flair and unmatched luxury. This two-seater convertible, based on the AMG SL 63, brings Maybach’s signature opulence to the open road. With a 4.0-liter V8 engine, plush white interiors, and exclusive design touches like the Maybach-patterned hood, it’s a statement of wealth and style. From its serene ride to its dazzling chrome accents, this car is built to impress. In this review, I’ll explore its design, performance, comfort, and more to see if it lives up to the hype. Buckle up for a closer look at this ultra-luxury roadster
Stunning Design and Craftsmanship
The SL 680 screams exclusivity with its bold, elegant look. Available in Red Ambiance (Garnet Red Metallic) or White Ambiance (Opalite White Magno), its two-tone paint job turns heads. The illuminated Maybach grille, chrome bonnet fin, and upright Mercedes star add regal flair. The 21-inch alloy wheels, in multi-spoke or monoblock styles, shine brightly. Inside, the cabin is a sea of white Nappa leather, with diamond-stitched seats and Maybach logos everywhere. Rose gold headlamp accents and a graphite grey hood with embossed patterns make it unmistakably Maybach. It’s a rolling work of art, though some find the logos a bit flashy.
Exterior Elegance
The SL 680’s exterior is a masterclass in luxury. The wide, shiny grille sits proudly under the iconic star, while the black bonnet sports a chrome fin and optional Maybach logos. Flush door handles and 21-inch forged wheels add sleekness. The soft top, with its Maybach pattern, folds in seconds, perfect for open-air drives. Subtle touches like gold-finished windshield frames elevate its charm. It’s a car that demands attention, though the heavy chrome might feel overdone for some.
Lavish Interiors
Step inside, and the SL 680 feels like a private yacht. The all-white Nappa leather interior, sustainably tanned, is airy and indulgent. Diamond-stitched seats, a three-spoke steering wheel with Maybach lettering, and chrome trim create a plush vibe. The 11.9-inch tilting touchscreen and 12.3-inch driver display are sleek, but the two-seat layout limits practicality. Every detail, from ambient lighting to the Burmester audio, screams luxury. It’s a cozy, elite space for two.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the SL 680 packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577–585 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, it hits 100 kmph in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 260 kmph. While slower than the AMG SL 63, its focus is comfort, not raw speed. The retuned suspension and noise-optimized exhaust ensure a smooth, quiet ride. Rear-wheel steering adds agility. It’s a cruiser that glides effortlessly, perfect for scenic drives.
Engine and Power
The SL 680’s V8 engine is a beast, churning out up to 585 hp. It’s slightly detuned compared to the AMG SL 63, prioritizing refinement over aggression. The nine-speed gearbox shifts smoothly, and all-wheel drive keeps it steady on varied roads. Acceleration is strong but not neck-snapping, hitting 0–100 kmph in 4.1 seconds. The exhaust is hushed, aligning with Maybach’s calm ethos. It’s powerful yet composed, ideal for relaxed, confident cruising.
Handling and Ride Quality
The SL 680’s suspension is reworked for plushness, with softer springs and damping. It absorbs bumps like a dream, making it one of the smoothest roadsters around. Over 18 kg of sound-deadening material keeps the cabin whisper-quiet, even with the top down. Handling is steady, not sharp, encouraging leisurely drives. Rear-wheel steering helps in tight spots. It’s not a track car but shines on highways or coastal roads, offering unmatched comfort.
Unmatched Comfort and Technology
Comfort is where the SL 680 truly excels. Its seats, with ventilation and memory settings, cradle you perfectly. The cabin stays serene thanks to an insulated soft top and extensive soundproofing. Tech-wise, it boasts the latest MBUX system, with a tilting 11.9-inch touchscreen, voice control, and augmented video. A 12.3-inch digital cockpit and Burmester audio add flair. Safety features like Active Distance Assist and seven airbags keep you secure. This car pampers like no other roadster.
Luxury Seating
The SL 680’s front seats are a highlight, offering 16-way adjustments, heating, cooling, and memory presets. Wrapped in soft Nappa leather, they’re diamond-stitched for style and comfort. Massages aren’t included, but the seats feel like thrones. With only two seats, there’s no rear space, but the focus is on driver and passenger luxury. The cabin’s tight fit enhances the intimate, exclusive feel, perfect for long drives or quick getaways.
Advanced Tech Features
The SL 680 is a tech powerhouse. The MBUX system, with an 11.9-inch tilting screen, responds to voice commands and offers crisp graphics. A 12.3-inch driver display shows Maybach-specific animations. Wireless charging, multi-color ambient lighting, and a Burmester sound system elevate the experience. Safety tech includes Active Blind Spot Assist and PRE-SAFE. It’s intuitive but complex—new owners might need time to master all the settings.
Exclusivity and Market Position
Priced at ₹4.2 crore in India, the SL 680 is a niche luxury car, with only three units allocated for 2025, deliveries starting in Q1 2026. It competes with the Bentley Continental GT Convertible and Aston Martin Vantage, but its Maybach badge and unique styling set it apart. Aimed at HNIs and collectors, it’s a status symbol. Its limited availability and high price make it a rare gem, though some argue it’s just a dressed-up AMG SL 63.
Limited Availability
With just three units for India in 2025, the SL 680 is ultra-exclusive. Launched on March 17, 2025, it’s a collector’s dream, with deliveries planned for early 2026. The high price and low supply ensure only a few can own one. Globally, it’s also limited, adding to its allure. Buyers must act fast through Mercedes-Benz dealers, as demand from wealthy buyers in places like Dubai or Miami is fierce.
Competitors
The SL 680 faces off against the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, which offers a W12 engine and bespoke interiors, and the Aston Martin Vantage, known for sporty handling. Both rivals match its luxury but differ in style—Bentley leans classic, Aston sportier. The SL 680’s Maybach branding and tech-heavy cabin give it an edge for buyers seeking modern opulence. At ₹4.2 crore, it’s priced competitively but demands a premium for exclusivity.
Challenges and Considerations
The SL 680 isn’t perfect. Its ₹4.2 crore price tag is steep, and some see it as an overpriced AMG SL 63 with extra logos. The 240-liter boot is small for a luxury car, and two-seat practicality limits family use. Fuel efficiency, at 7.8 kmpl, is low, and maintenance costs are high. The heavy chrome and logo-heavy design may feel tacky to some. Buyers also face long wait times due to limited units. Weigh these before splurging.
High Cost and Maintenance
At ₹4.2 crore (ex-showroom), the SL 680 is a massive investment. On-road costs in Delhi hit ₹4.82 crore, including RTO and insurance. Fuel economy of 7.8 kmpl means frequent refills, and V8 maintenance, like servicing or tire replacements, is pricey. Insurance premiums are steep due to the car’s value. While Mercedes offers prepaid maintenance plans, the overall cost of ownership is a big commitment for even wealthy buyers.
Practicality Concerns
The SL 680’s two-seater design and 240-liter boot make it less practical than rivals like the Bentley Continental, which offers more cargo space. It’s not built for family trips or heavy luggage, focusing instead on driver-passenger luxury. The soft top, while stylish, may raise security concerns in some areas. For daily use, its size (4.7 meters long) can feel bulky in tight city streets, limiting versatility.
Why the SL 680 Stands Out
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is a triumph of luxury and style. Its plush ride, stunning design, and cutting-edge tech make it the ultimate roadster for those who can afford it. While not the fastest or most practical, it delivers unmatched comfort and exclusivity, redefining open-top driving. Perfect for scenic cruises or making a statement, it’s a car that turns every drive into an event. If you crave a blend of sporty roots and Maybach’s lavish touch, the SL 680 is worth the splurge.
