2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class received a mid-cycle update led by refreshed exterior lighting and trim, upgraded cabin technology, and a much broader standard driver-assistance suite. The S 550 and S 600 were also renamed S 560 and S 650.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class
1st Mercedes-Maybach S-Class generation (2016-2020 US), mid-cycle refresh year
Mercedes-Maybach positioned this stretched S-Class as a discreet, chauffeur-friendly luxury sedan that also rewards its driver. Its identity centers on a spacious and quiet rear cabin, reclining massage seating, hand-fitted leather and wood, soft suspension tuning, and powerful engines that deliver speed without drama. Compared with the regular S-Class, its longer wheelbase and extensive rear-passenger equipment make comfort while being driven the main differentiator.
The S 560 4MATIC is the V8-powered, all-weather version, with AWD, self-leveling air suspension, and reclining rear seats with heat, ventilation, massage, and powered calf rests. The S 650 emphasizes smooth V12 power and rear-passenger comfort, pairing rear-wheel drive with a camera-based active suspension. Both have dual 12.3-inch displays, extensive Nappa leather trim, and a Burmester 3D sound system.
What changed, by category
2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V12, Twin Turbo, 6.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-Tronic Plus | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic Plus |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 621 hp | 463 hp |
| Torque | 738 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.3 cu-ft | 12.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40 in | 40 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class a major update?
Yes. The 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class received a mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign. It brought refreshed exterior details, upgraded cabin controls and comfort programs, expanded standard driver assistance, new trim names, and engine changes.
How did the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class trim names change for 2018?
The S 550 4MATIC was renamed S 560 4MATIC, and the S 600 was renamed S 650 for 2018. These were continuations under new names, not two discontinued trims followed by unrelated replacements.
What engine changes did the 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class receive?
The 2018 S 560 4MATIC received a 463-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with a 9-speed automatic. The S 650 retained a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12, but output rose from 523 to 621 hp and from 612 to 738 lb-ft.
What driver-assistance features were added for 2018?
The 2018 update expanded the standard driver-assistance suite with route-based adaptive cruise control, steering assist, lane-change assist, evasive steering assistance, and congestion emergency braking.
How do the 2018 Maybach S 560 4MATIC and S 650 differ?
The 2018 S 560 4MATIC uses a 463-hp twin-turbo V8, a 9-speed automatic, AWD, and self-leveling air suspension. The S 650 uses a 621-hp twin-turbo V12, a 7-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive, and a camera-based active suspension with a body-leaning CURVE function.
2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class.