Car and Driver Experiences the Most Exquisite SL Roadster

The latest Mercedes-Benz SL has broken all of the rules for its iconic roadster. When it was introduced, there was an emphasis on AMG® performance models. However, that was not enough. They went even further by introducing another layer of luxury and exclusivity. The 2026 Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 is precisely what you’ve been looking for.
It may look like an SL Roadster; however, the Maybach version offers many special touches, finishes, and exquisite details. It takes the icon to a whole new level.
To understand everything about today’s Maybach SL 680, you have to look back in time and the rich tradition of the Double-M badge. A century ago, the Maybach name was applied to some of the most elegant and well-engineered automobiles in the world. They include open-top automobiles that had moments in the sun, glistening with details.
That tradition continued with the return of the Double-M badge in 2002, where the same attention to detail and advanced engineering were brought together again. They spoke to the times, while adding more custom elements and details that set it apart from anything else on the road.
The 2026 Maybach SL 680 delivers a new sensation by taking the past and applying it to today’s Roadster. The shape is undeniably classic—a roadster that has followed decades of classic design innovation—a place for two occupants and a power-insulated soft top to open up the skies above the Metroplex.

Maybach adds exclusive details that give it the extraordinary experience you expect in the 2026 SL 680. An exclusive illuminated radiator grille adorns the front clip, rose-gold inlaid headlamp trim, and 21-inch forged wheels add a commanding presence to this Roadster.
Inside the 2026 Maybach SL 680, two themes are available – “Red Ambiance” and “White Ambiance.” Each one is set with a contrasting two-tone scheme, with the finest leathers providing comfort with absolute luxury. The Maybach signet is featured on the back headrests of the seats, with an exclusive steering wheel.
The instrument cluster offers a Maybach-specific start-up screen, leading to exclusive dials for that custom feeling. Also, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) receives more exclusive screens and content driven by artificial intelligence and augmented with the available MBUX Augmented Video.

The 2026 Maybach SL 680 is powered by a 577-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 590 pound-feet of torque. The driveline continues with the 9G-TRONIC® nine-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels through the 4MATIC® drive system. It is estimated to sprint from 0-60 MPH in 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of 161 MPH. All accomplished with an effortless ease as expected in a Maybach.
How does it drive? In a recent review by Car and Driver, they heralded its return to what the SL Roadster once stood for. Car and Driver summarized their time with it by stating that “it was virtually unrivaled as an automotive totem of the good life. The Maybach SL 680 moves this car back in that direction. As for the logo excess, that’s a modern affectation.”
There is nothing quite like the 2026 Maybach SL 680 on the road today. Consider this invitation to experience one soon from Mercedes-Benz of Plano. Contact us for an appointment for your own tour of this elegant roadster.
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