Mercedez-Benz is planning a wider range of models with the new S-Class to make up for the end of production of the Maybach 57 and 62.

“We have given up on Maybach,” said sales and marketing supremo Joachim Schmidt.

“We had two alternatives: to continue with just one model or to invest below the 57 and 62. But with our current Mercedes portfolio we are extremely strong there. A small Maybach coupe would be in direct competition to the S-Class coupe.”

Schmidt refuted claims that the resurrection of Maybach was a failure.

“If you look at what we sold with a car costing around EUR300,000 it came to about 200 last year compared to around 300 Rolls-Royce Phantoms and a similar number from Bentley,” he said. “So we were OK with comparable products. What we didn’t have was a car below that.

“We will instead invest in the luxury segment, which is our home turf, but we will do it with Mercedes-Benz.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Schmidt said there “will be two versions of the S-Class” – believed to be replacements for today’s saloon and SLC coupe – with some “additional variants”.

These are expected to take the S-Class even further upmarket which would have particular appeal in some far eastern markets.