2026 Mercedes-Maybach SL 680: Starting at approximately $235,000, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 turns the SL roadster into a two-seat ultra-luxury grand tourer with handcrafted detailing and a twin-turbo V8.
With 577 horsepower and an official EPA rating of 16 MPG combined, this is performance-first luxury, not efficiency.
It competes with the Bentley Continental GTC and Aston Martin DB12 Volante, but undercuts both in price while offering comparable exclusivity.
This is Maybach comfort in a convertible sports car format.
Overview
Best for: Buyers wanting open-top performance with ultra-luxury detailing
Not ideal for: Drivers prioritizing rear-seat practicality or fuel efficiency
Biggest strength: Refined V8 power paired with handcrafted interior quality
Biggest weakness: Very high price for a strict two-seater
Overall rating: 9.1/10
Pricing Breakdown
Starting MSRP: Approximately $235,000
Estimated On-Road Cost (including destination and standard fees): $250,000 to $265,000 depending on options and state taxes
Key pricing considerations:
• Destination charge typically around $1,150 to $1,500
• Maybach-exclusive paint and interior trims add $10,000+
• Carbon ceramic brakes optional
• Insurance premiums in exotic-car range
Trim comparison:
Unlike standard SL models, the SL 680 is offered in a single fully loaded Maybach configuration. Buyers primarily choose exterior finishes, wheel designs, and interior themes rather than mechanical upgrades.
Best value trim recommendation: There is only one core configuration. Focus spending on interior personalization and avoid excessive cosmetic packages that do not improve resale value.
Engine & Real-World Performance
Engine specifications:
4.0L twin-turbocharged V8
577 horsepower
590 lb-ft of torque
9-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel drive
Highway merging confidence:
Acceleration is effortless. 0 to 60 mph takes roughly 4.0 seconds. Passing at highway speeds requires minimal throttle input.
City driving smoothness:
Ride quality is notably softer than AMG-tuned SL variants. Suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over sharp handling. Steering remains precise but relaxed.
Towing capability:
Not applicable. This is a performance luxury convertible.
Loaded passenger performance:
With two passengers and luggage, performance remains unchanged. Torque delivery is strong across the rev range.
This is tuned for grand touring rather than aggressive track driving.
Fuel Economy & Monthly Fuel Cost Calculation
Official EPA rating:
City: 14 MPG
Highway: 21 MPG
Combined: 16 MPG
Fuel type: Premium gasoline
U.S. national average premium gasoline price used: $3.90 per gallon. Price may vary by state.
Monthly driving assumption: 1,000 miles
1,000 divided by 16 MPG equals 62.5 gallons
62.5 gallons multiplied by $3.90 equals $243.75
Estimated monthly fuel cost: Approximately $244
Driving 1,500 miles monthly increases fuel cost to roughly $366.
Comparison With Key Rivals
| Vehicle | Starting Price | Horsepower | Combined MPG | Key Safety Tech |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 | ~$235,000 | 577 hp | 16 MPG | Full Mercedes ADAS suite |
| Bentley Continental GTC | ~$265,000 | 542 hp | 17 MPG | Advanced driver assist |
| Aston Martin DB12 Volante | ~$265,000 | 671 hp | 17 MPG | Standard ADAS |
Category winners:
Most horsepower: Aston Martin DB12 Volante
Lowest starting price: Mercedes-Maybach SL 680
Best MPG: Bentley Continental GTC and Aston Martin DB12 Volante (slightly higher highway efficiency)
Most comfort-focused tuning: Mercedes-Maybach SL 680
The Maybach balances power and luxury more evenly than its rivals.
Interior & Practicality
Front passenger comfort:
Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats standard. Premium leather upholstery throughout. Acoustic soft-top reduces wind noise significantly.
Rear passenger comfort:
Not applicable. Strict two-seat layout.
Cargo space:
Approximately 8.5 cubic feet in the trunk. Enough for weekend luggage but not extended travel gear.
Tech usability:
• 11.9-inch adjustable central touchscreen
• Fully digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Head-up display
• Premium Burmester audio system
Daily commute practicality:
Surprisingly usable for daily driving if parking space allows. Ride comfort is above average for a convertible sports car.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Exceptional interior craftsmanship
Strong twin-turbo V8 performance
Smooth ride for a sports convertible
Distinctive Maybach exclusivity
Cons:
High starting price
Limited cargo space
Strictly two seats
Fuel economy below segment average
Safety Breakdown
Airbags:
Front airbags
Side impact airbags
Knee airbags
ADAS features:
Adaptive cruise control
Lane keeping assist
Blind spot monitoring
Automatic emergency braking
360-degree camera
Crash ratings:
No NHTSA or IIHS ratings available specifically for the SL 680 Maybach variant.
Who Should Buy It?
Ideal buyer:
Luxury-focused drivers who want a convertible without sacrificing refinement
Collectors wanting a rare Maybach model
Buyers who prioritize brand prestige and craftsmanship
Who should avoid it:
Families needing rear seats
Buyers seeking track-level performance
Anyone prioritizing fuel efficiency
FAQ
How much does the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 cost?
Starting around $235,000 before options.
What engine does it use?
A 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 577 horsepower.
What is the fuel economy?
16 MPG combined according to EPA ratings.
Does it have rear seats?
No. It is a strict two-seater.
Is it faster than the Bentley Continental GTC?
It is slightly quicker to 60 mph in most testing comparisons.
Is it practical for daily use?
Yes, if you are comfortable with limited cargo space and high fuel costs.
Final Recommendation
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 delivers a rare combination of open-top performance and ultra-luxury refinement.
If you want a grand touring convertible with strong V8 performance and handcrafted interior quality, it stands out as one of the most balanced options in this price range.
If maximum horsepower or rear-seat practicality matters more, competitors may fit better. For buyers prioritizing prestige and comfort, this is one of the most refined two-seat convertibles available today.