5 Exclusive Features of the 2026 Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series

Mercedes-Maybach has never created a model quite like the 2026 SL 680 Monogram Series. This open-top two-seater marks the sportiest entry in the brand's history, bringing together the dynamic character of the SL with the refined craftsmanship Maybach is known for. Arriving at U.S. dealerships later in 2025, the SL 680 Monogram Series introduces several firsts for the brand, from innovative paint technology to a completely reimagined grille design.

Here are five exclusive elements that define this new flagship convertible.

1. The Sportiest Maybach Ever Built

The SL 680 Monogram Series holds a unique position in Maybach's lineup. It's the first Maybach model designed with sporty driving dynamics as a core focus, balancing the brand's signature refinement with the agility and power of a true performance convertible.

Under the hood sits a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine producing 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Power is delivered through a smooth-shifting 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, with 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive and an electronically controlled locking rear differential ensuring strong traction in any road condition. Standard rear-axle steering adds precision and stability to the handling.

The suspension system uses advanced hydraulic roll stabilization, replacing conventional mechanical anti-roll bars with hydraulic elements that compensate for rolling movements in fractions of a second. Maybach-specific valves for the damper hydraulics and softer steel springs allow the suspension to respond sensitively to uneven road surfaces, absorbing imperfections gently while maintaining control through corners.

Four drive programs—Comfort, Maybach, Sport, and Individual—offer a range of driving experiences. In Comfort and Maybach modes, softer accelerator pedal calibration delivers a smoother response to driver inputs, perfect for relaxed cruising. Sport mode sharpens throttle response for more dynamic driving.

2. Two Curated Ambience Concepts: Red and White

The SL 680 Monogram Series is offered in two carefully curated design concepts, each built around a distinct colour theme.

White Ambience presents a new interpretation of Maybach two-tone paintwork. The body features Obsidian Black Metallic over MANUFAKTUR Moonlight White Magno, creating a refined, airy character. Inside, sustainably tanned MANUFAKTUR Crystal White Nappa leather extends throughout the cabin, covering the seats, door panels, centre console, and the space behind the seats. Seat backrests and trim elements in silver chrome provide a striking contrast.

Red Ambience takes a more expressive approach. Obsidian Black Metallic contrasts elegantly with MANUFAKTUR Garnet Red Metallic, a new colour developed specifically for the SL 680 Monogram Series. The paint is characterized by its vibrant, rich hue and remarkable depth. The interior maintains the same MANUFAKTUR Crystal White Nappa leather upholstery found in the White Ambience concept.

Both concepts feature a new floral design on the seat surfaces, adding an intricate visual element while ensuring comfort. The seat side panels are positioned lower for easier entry and exit.

Beyond these two curated concepts, more than 50 MANUFAKTUR Exclusive paints are available. The colour palette draws inspiration from precious stones, minerals, natural environments like Côte d'Azur Blue, and current trends from fashion, architecture, and design. The range also includes newly interpreted classic hues from the historic paint archives of Mercedes-Benz and Maybach.

3. PixelPaint Hood with Integrated Maybach Pattern

The optional hood treatment demonstrates a level of precision and craftsmanship that sets the SL 680 Monogram Series apart. The Obsidian Black Metallic hood can be finished with the Maybach pattern integrated in Graphite Grey, applied using the innovative PixelPaint process.

PixelPaint technology works similarly to an inkjet printer, but instead of paper, it applies paint directly to the vehicle's bodywork with microscopic accuracy. The print head contains more than 1,000 nozzles, each controlled individually. These nozzles apply drops of paint at a size of 20 to 50 microns at speeds exceeding 1,000 drops per second. The extremely precise application produces no spray mist and eliminates the need for labour-intensive masking and multiple painting passes.

The process requires meticulous hand finishing. After receiving a base coat and initial clearcoat, the hood is sanded by hand. The Maybach pattern is then printed using PixelPaint. Two additional coats of clear follow, each sanded by hand before the final clearcoat is applied. The result is four coats of clear lacquer and three hand-sanded layers, giving the Maybach pattern extraordinary visual depth. Each layer of hand sanding takes several hours and demands careful attention to detail.

Beyond its visual impact, the PixelPaint process is more sustainable than traditional methods. No spray mist means less waste, and the elimination of masking steps reduces emissions.

4. MANUFAKTUR Nappa Leather with New Floral Design

The interior of the SL 680 Monogram Series showcases sustainably tanned MANUFAKTUR Crystal White Nappa leather throughout the cabin. The elegant upholstery features a new floral design on the seat surfaces, creating a refined visual texture while maintaining the intricate support structure needed for long-distance comfort.

The leather extends beyond the seats to cover door panels, the centre console, and the space behind the seats. Seat backrests and trim elements finished in silver chrome provide contrast against the white leather. The seat side panels are positioned lower, making it easier to get in and out of the low-slung convertible.

Every detail reflects Maybach's focus on skilled craftsmanship and high-quality materials. The floral pattern is not simply decorative—it's integrated into the seat design to ensure the upholstery remains comfortable during spirited driving or relaxed touring.

5. A-Shape Illuminated Grille: A First for Maybach

The SL 680 Monogram Series introduces a new grille design that marks a departure from traditional Maybach styling. It's the first Maybach model in which the chrome radiator grille, with its fine vertical slats, has an A-shape contour. In typical sports-car fashion, this design shifts the visual centre of gravity downward, emphasizing the vehicle's athletic character.

The contour of the radiator grille is illuminated, as is the delicately integrated Maybach lettering. The front fascia features horizontal air intakes with striking chrome trim, further reinforcing the sporty presence.

Additional design details include a windshield frame finished in gleaming chrome, rose gold accents in the headlights, and side sill panels with integrated chrome elements. The hood bears a standing Mercedes star and a chrome element positioned longitudinally. At the rear, the taillights feature the Mercedes-Maybach logo, and the Maybach-specific rear fascia includes chrome accents, a unique diffuser panel, and tailpipe trims with a signature horizontal bar.

Aerodynamically designed double scoops behind the rear seats, combined with the chrome element on the hood, give the SL 680 a particularly elegant, sporty profile when the soft top is down. The acoustic soft top itself features a light black fabric with a subtle anthracite Maybach pattern.

21-inch Maybach forged wheels, available in five-hole Monoblock or multi-spoke designs, complete the exterior.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Acoustic Comfort and Ride Quality

Beyond performance and design, the SL 680 Monogram Series prioritizes acoustic comfort. Comprehensive measures ensure a quiet, serene driving experience. Extensive sound insulation, aluminum butyl surfaces, and sound absorption foams reduce cabin noise. The exhaust system uses the highest possible proportion of insulating materials, and the muffler features innovative inlays made of recyclable fibreglass fabric to further reduce sound levels.

The result is a convertible that feels calm and composed, whether you're cruising through Laval with the top down or touring across Quebec with the roof up.

Learn More About Maybach’s Monogram Series at Mercedes-Benz Laval

For those interested in learning more about this new flagship convertible, our team at Mercedes-Benz Laval can provide details on availability, customization options, and the exclusive MAYBACH Icons of Luxury collection designed to complement the vehicle.