The top-tier brand Mercedes-Maybach has test-driven the 'SL680 Monogram,' which is set to launch in South Korea in the second half of this year. This is the first roadster (two-seat convertible) model from Maybach. SL stands for 'Super Light,' which means very light and agile. The vehicle showcased Maybach's distinct luxurious and delicate feel while boasting the dynamic performance characteristic of the SL.

From the 28th to the 30th of last month (local time), Maybach conducted a test-driving event for global media on the Spanish Balearic Island of Ibiza for the 'SL680 Monogram.' Initially unveiled in August last year, the SL680 Monogram is set to be released sequentially in the South Korean market after Europe and North America, with this being the first media test drive. The starting price announced in Europe was €255,850 (approximately 400 million won), and the domestic selling price has yet to be determined.

On the 28th of last month (local time) in Ibiza, Spain's Balearic Islands, Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL680 Monogram vehicles stand at the Marina Botafoc harbor. /Courtesy of Kwon Yu-jung.

The first sight of the SL680 Monogram was at the 'Marina Botafoc' port, located on the southern side of Ibiza. While dozens of luxury yachts were docked around the port, the vehicle's glamorous appearance caught the eye first. The roofless two-seater sports car exhibited a strong presence, combining Maybach's signature two-tone exterior with a spacious hood filled with the brand logo (pattern).

Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL680 Monogram. /Courtesy of Kwon Yu-jung.

Upon closer inspection, logos were engraved not only on the hood but throughout the vehicle. The soft top (fabric roof) serving as the roof and the lower part of the front grille were densely embossed with logos. Although there were subtle low-relief designs and gradation, personally, the numerous logos felt overwhelming. This is an optional feature, allowing customers to choose a design according to their preferences.

Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL680 Monogram. /Courtesy of Kwon Yu-jung.

Despite being a two-seater, the interior of the vehicle was spacious and comfortable. The seats made of white napa leather created an elegant atmosphere and felt soft and plush, yet the rather low seat position couldn’t be adjusted. It was inconvenient when using the unmanned parking ticket machine due to mismatched height, and one could feel that the steering wheel obstructed the front view if the posture was slightly off. The trunk and other storage spaces provided ample room for two people.

Even a slight press on the accelerator pedal made the vehicle swiftly increase in speed. Powered by a 4.0-liter bi-turbo engine paired with a Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission, it generates 585 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Switching to sports (S) mode and pressing the pedal released an unexpectedly loud exhaust sound. Given the landscape of Ibiza Island, it felt disappointing that there were few long, open stretches to fully enjoy the power.

Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL680 Monogram. /Courtesy of Kwon Yu-jung.

The vehicle navigated narrow and winding mountain roads without much effort. The steep gradients and many sharp turns were noticeable, yet the vehicle quickly adapted to sudden directional changes. According to Maybach, the 'rear axle steering' feature minimizes centrifugal force by aligning the rear wheels at the same angle as the front wheels when cornering.

Mercedes-Benz Maybach SL680. /Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.

From the passenger seat, the comfort and quietness of the ride were noticeable. Especially when the driver selected the 'Maybach mode' (C diamond icon), exclusive to the Maybach series, the acceleration and vibrations were relatively less pronounced. Originally, the Maybach mode maximizes the ride comfort for rear-seat passengers. Even when driving with the top down, external noises like wind were blocked, allowing focus on in-car conversations or music.

Considering the strong demand for Maybach in the South Korean market, the price of several hundred million won is unlikely to be a barrier. As of last year, South Korea ranked third in global Maybach sales. The fact that Maybach has established a reputation in the country for being 'chauffeur-driven cars' may affect this. Additionally, the clear seasonal weather and road conditions present challenges to fully enjoying the appeal of a convertible.