Mercedes-Maybach G650 Opens Up Rear-Seat Luxury

Daimler AG's Mercedes unit is launching a limited-edition SUV that the carmaker says provides rear seat passengers with the comfort and amenities of a private jet. 

Based on the long-wheelbase version of the G-Glass SUV, the Maybach G650 Landaulet features a limousine-type rear passengers area with seats borrowed from the high-end S-Class Pullman sedan. The rear seats can be partitioned off from the front row via a retractable glass window that also can be darkened for additional privacy. 

The cloth roof over the rear can be lowered electronically to convert the SUV into a semi-convertible. The front section has a traditional closed hard-top roof. 

The rear seats can be fully reclined and have a hot-stone massage function. Other appointments include temperature-controlled cupholders, folding tables and two 10-inch entertainment screens. 

Mercedes says the vehicle uses a heavy-duty "portal axle' chassis design in which the 22-inch wheels are mounted below the axle to provide nearly 18 inches of ground clearance. Retractable running boards help improve entry and exit from the vehicle. 

Power comes from Mercedes' twin-turbo 6.0-liter V-12 engine that makes 630 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated with a 7-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter and separate transfer case and three differential locks that can be activated while the vehicle is moving. 

Mercedes plans to limit production of the Maybach G650 Landaulet to 99 units, with deliveries due to start this autumn. Pricing hasn't been announced.