One might wonder – how can anyone go “Meh!” on the new S-Class? And if there is such a gentry, what else do they want from a car? Well, both questions are valid. Super valid. However, the truth is for some people, the S-Class isn’t good enough. It’s just too “ordinary” for their taste. And that’s why uber-luxury marques exist, a space where Mercedes-Maybach has a strong foothold.

To cater to the cream of the society, Mercedes-Benz India has introduced two new variants of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class – the locally-assembled S 580 and the imported S 680. The former comes with a starting price tag of Rs 2.5 crore, whereas the latter demands at least Rs 3.2 crore.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class distances itself from the donor limousine with bespoke styling elements inside and outside the cabin. Those include heavier chrome treatment, different alloys and grille and a Maybach logo on the C-pillar. Also, the Maybach models are longer in dimension, offering even more room for the rear passengers.

Coming to the engines, the S 580 Maybach gets the same powerplant as the Mercedes-Benz S 580. That means a turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 dispensing 496bhp/700Nm. Furthermore, mated to the engine is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, capable of aiding the vehicle with an extra 20bhp/200Nm. On the other hand, the S 680 Maybach houses a 6.0-litre V12 that pumps out 603bhp and a peak torque of 900Nm. By default, both variants have a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. As far as performance numbers are concerned, both can hit 250kmph before the electronic speed governors come into action. Also, the S 580 can hit 100kmph from nothing in 4.8 seconds, while the S 680 can complete that sprint in 4.5 seconds.

Features? Where do we start! The list is virtually endless. It includes air suspension, a panoramic sliding sunroof, 21-inch alloy wheels, powered seats with memory function, connected-car tech and a Burmester 4D surround sound system. The Luxo-barge also offers wireless mobile charging (front and rear), a head-up display with augmented reality, a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting and a plethora of safety and driver assistance systems.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class competes with the Bentley Flying Spur and the Rolls-Royce Ghost. So that’s quite a lovely place to find yourself shopping. If you had the money, which one would you take?