The 2011 Maybach 62 S has a longer wheelbase than the Maybach 57 or 57 S, but it still offers an impressively strong engine and an extremely comfortable ride. This ultra-luxury sedan strikes a delicate balance between elegance and power. The 62 S has a plush interior and a graceful exterior, and a powerful V12, 620 horsepower, biturbo engine with a single overhead cam (SOHC). For those who want to add a sophisticated sedan to their collection, the 62 S fits the bill but comes at a very high price.
Despite tipping the scales at over 6,000 pounds, the 62 S can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in about 5 seconds and reach speeds of 155 MPH. Because the 62 S has a longer wheelbase than the 57 or 57 S, navigating a twisting roadway is somewhat difficult, particularly at higher speeds. The 62 S has an improved, more fuel-efficient engine, but still averages only 10 MPG in the city and 16 MPG on the highway. With the addition of Airmatic Dual Control (ADC) suspension and double wishbone front suspension, the Maybach offers a smooth ride and the most advanced chassis.
In addition to an extraordinarily comfortable, luxurious ride, the Maybach is renowned for its arresting appearance. Popular at the beginning of the 20th Century and resurrected by Daimler about ten years ago, the Maybach 62 S is built on the same platform as the Mercedes S-class. Due to flagging sales after the economy slumped in 2008, however, Daimler decided to discontinue this brand as of 2013. Once Daimler stops production of the Maybach, they will not have an ultra-luxury sedan to rival Bentley, which is owned by Volkswagen, and Rolls Royce, which is owned by BMW. Unfortunately, many critics of the Maybach view this sedan as a longer, more expensive version of the Mercedes S-class and suggest the Maybach brand lacks the same character as its competitors have. Perhaps the reason the Bentley and Rolls brands have survived is because they've maintained a distinct identity and appearance. Still, the 62 S will attract those who are looking for an additional car to round out their collection.
The 2011 Maybach 62 S features an impressive list of safety features, including side airbags for front and rear passengers, side-curtain airbags, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) which provides greater traction and stability. The 62 S also features PARKTRONIC, a technology that uses a rearview camera, ultrasonic waves, and audible indicators to make parking this 20-foot-long behemoth a little easier.