2018 Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet to be revealed at the 2016 LA Auto Show

Mercedes-Benz revealed that it is preparing to present a more luxurious version of its S-Class Cabriolet. Dubbed as the 2018 Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet, the brand made sure that both the exterior and interior would get the Maybach treatment. Based in Stuttgart, Germany, Maybach is a subsidiary of Daimler AG and is responsible for the manufacture of the brand's ultra-luxury model which is the S-Class. Mercedes disclosed as well that this special edition version of the S650 will be unveiled this Wednesday, November 16, 2016, in Los Angeles.

Considering that the brand gave it the “S650” label, this meant that the special edition will be powered by the 6.0-liter bi-turbo V12 engine. Given this specification, there is the possibility that this particular engine is expected to be more powerful than the one inside the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Sedan. Speaking of the latter’s engine, it is able to deliver an output of 390 kW (523 horsepower) with peak torque of 830 Nm (612 lb.-ft.).

Even then, there is also no confirmation if the power unit inside the special edition will even go as high as 463 kW (621 horsepower) or reach a maximum torque of 1,000 Nm (738 lb.-ft.), which is the same engine that powers the S65 AMG. In addition, there is also no word if the 12-cylinder engine will come with a different tune.

While the brand’s S-Class already has a long-wheelbase compared to other models, the Maybach Sedan’s wheelbase is even longer. However, the Maybach Cabriolet has been revealed to have a wheelbase that is similar to the standard S-Class Convertible.

In terms of design, the lower air intake in the front has chrome accents. The interior meanwhile has a bespoke trim and to serve as proof of it being part of the special edition, the Maybach badge can be seen on a number of areas inside. For those who love to listen to music, the sound is made more appealing through the Burmester sound system fitted inside.

There is no doubt that the new S650 Cabriolet will be the most powerful, and clearly most luxurious, convertible in the history of Daimler. According to reports, this special edition model will not be a one-off version as 100 units are expected to be released to the U.S, market. After being displayed during the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, the brand said that sales of this model are projected to begin next year.

Though the actual price has yet to be disclosed, there is the expectation that those who want to own this luxurious Mercedes drop-top will have to pay a rather premium price. To give you an idea about the price, the Maybach edition of the S600 Sedan has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $191,300. Considering that the S650 Cabriolet is a limited edition version and will possibly deliver more power, it is likely that the price would be at least $250,000.