Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet revealed

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen gets part Maybach, part AMG treatment in its latest avatar. Only 99 units will be made.

Meet the wacky new Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet. If you’re wondering what’s this strange looking thing, well, let’s just say that this is what happens when luxury goes borderline bonkers. Or, more precisely, when Maybach meets AMG and G-Class.

Before we get on with the details of the wild G650 Landaulet, there’re a few things that you must know. The G-Class, or G-Wagen, has been in production since 1979, and the firm has just kept reinventing the G-Wagen over all these years. Now, though, Mercedes reportedly wants to relieve the G-Class of its duties. And, so, this – the G650 Landaulet – could well be the final send-off special for the iconic off-roader.

Here’re the main highlights of the G650 Landaulet. First, the name Landaulet refers to a vehicle that comes with a retractable roof that folds over the rear seats. The retractable roof is electrically operated but it’s an exclusive feature for rear seat occupants – the front passengers get a hard top. There’s more stuff to keep rear seat passengers entertained. The seats for examples are individually adjustable and have a massaging function, calf rests and thermal cup-holders. There are two 10-inch rear entertainment screens for each passenger at the back, too.

Front seat passengers need not worry, though - especially if you happen to be the driver. That’s because there's a madly powerful 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 lurking under that high-rising bonnet. The engine produces 621bhp of peak horsepower along with a mind-boggling torque of 1,000Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels, of course.

Among other mad bits and bobs on the car, the G650 rides on 22-inch wheels that come shod with 325/55 section tyres, and has portal axles like the G63 6x6 AMG. The ground clearance is 450mm. It also has 100 per cent differential locks and a low-ratio gearbox. All and all, it still is a true blue off-roader.

Mercedes hasn’t revealed the price of the G650 Landaulet as yet. But, given the fact that only 99 units will be made, it’s only logical to expect it to have a price tag that'll match its heft. The G650 Landaulet will debut at the upcoming 2017 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Also read: Mercedes-AMG C43 Review