2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach enters the world of ultra-luxury convertibles as the sportiest and most extravagant model in the brand's history. Joining the esteemed Maybach family—alongside the S-Class, GLS, and EQS SUV—it exemplifies Mercedes-Benz's strategy of delivering top-tier luxury within its existing lineup rather than launching a standalone marque like Rolls-Royce or Bentley. This model combines open-top driving exhilaration, limousine-like comfort, and supercar performance into a single, finely crafted package. The model has already launched in Europe and is expected to reach Middle Eastern markets by year-end.
Exterior Design
From the first glance, the SL Monogram Maybach captivates with its meticulous detailing and assertive presence. The hood, finished in Obsidian Black and adorned with the Maybach monogram using the innovative PixelPaint process, becomes a visual centerpiece with its three-dimensional depth. This handcrafted multi-layer process involves a base coat, printed monogram layer, and multiple hand-sanded clear coats, creating a truly bespoke effect.
The signature A-shaped vertical-slat grille is finished in polished chrome and illuminated, while rose gold accents in the headlights add a refined contrast. Chrome trim surrounds the windshield and rear diffuser, and the exclusive dual exhaust outlets with a horizontal chrome bar complete the sporty yet stately rear profile. The light black Acoustic Comfort soft top is subtly patterned with Maybach graphics, and 21-inch forged wheels—available in five-hole or multi-spoke designs—accentuate the car's elegance when the roof is down.
2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach Interior
Inside, the SL Monogram Maybach offers a two-seat configuration designed for ultimate indulgence. The rear seats are omitted to enhance space and comfort. The interior is wrapped in sustainably tanned MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather in crystal white, which covers the seats, door panels, center console, and rear cabin wall. The elegant floral seat design and galvanised chrome trim radiate a serene, airy ambience.
Brand-typical quilting on the seats ensures comfort, and lowered bolsters allow easy access. Advanced insulation using foam layers, acoustic fleeces, and aluminium butyl materials guarantees a quiet, cocoon-like experience—distinctly more serene than performance-oriented AMG models.
Mechanical Specifications
Under the hood lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm of torque. It's mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.
Semi-active hydraulic roll stabilization replaces traditional anti-roll bars for smoother cornering and superior ride comfort. Custom Maybach damper valves and soft steel springs deliver plush suspension response, while Pirelli P-Zero tires and rear-axle steering enhance both agility and stability.
Four drive modes—Comfort, Maybach, Sport, and Individual—let drivers tailor their experience. Maybach and Comfort modes soften throttle response for smooth cruising, while Sport mode sharpens dynamics and activates the richer engine tone for an assertive character.
2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach Price
The Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach 2026 starts at approximately $250,000 globally—roughly 937,500 SAR or 918,000 AED. This commanding figure secures one of the most exclusive and technologically advanced roadsters on the market, combining unmatched elegance, craftsmanship, and dynamic ability.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
41 minutes ago
- Arab News
Battery cost drops and govt drive help Kingdom achieve EV goals
RIYADH: A rapid decline in battery prices and critical mineral costs, along with effective government initiatives, are expected to help Saudi Arabia achieve its goal of electrifying 30 percent of vehicles in Riyadh by 2030, according to experts. Speaking to Arab News, Joseph Salem, partner and travel, transportation and hospitality practice lead at Arthur D. Little, Middle East, said that the Kingdom needs to deploy at least 1.5 million electric vehicles by 2030 to meet this stipulated target. Known for its oil wealth, Saudi Arabia has been leading the region's energy transition and is now focused on developing a comprehensive EV ecosystem. As a part of this strategy, the nation has invested in US-based EV manufacturer Lucid through the Kingdom's sovereign wealth fund, as well as creating its homegrown electric vehicle brand Ceer, which is expected to roll out vehicles by 2026. 'Battery cost reduction serves as a key enabler for Saudi Arabia to achieve its EV adoption targets and build a competitive regional automotive industry, reinforced by the broader global trend of declining battery prices. It will also be driven by both the government's push and pull from the market,' said Salem. He added: 'Saudi Arabia's $9 billion investment across the EV value chain, with Ceer launching vehicles by 2026 and a partnership with Lucid Motors to produce 155,000 EVs per year, underscores its commitment to becoming a regional EV manufacturing hub, reducing production costs and enhancing affordable EV availability.' The Kingdom is also expanding its EV infrastructure, aiming to have 5,000 fast chargers nationwide by 2030, making adoption more practical for consumers. The crucial cost factor In March, a report released by the International Energy Agency said that the global battery market is advancing rapidly as demand rises sharply and prices continue to decline. The IEA further stated that electric car sales increased by 25 percent year on year in 2024 to reach 17 million, while the average price of a battery pack for an electric car dropped below $100 per kilowatt-hour, a key threshold for competing on cost with conventional models. 'The ongoing reduction in EV battery costs is already making certain electric vehicle segments cost-competitive with internal combustion engines,' said Christopher Decker, partner, energy and natural resources at Oliver Wyman – India, Middle East and Africa. He added: 'This growing affordability will help lay the foundation for EV infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, which is essential for scaling up and ultimately decarbonizing the broader light-vehicle fleet.' Battery cost reduction serves as a key enabler for Saudi Arabia to achieve its EV adoption targets. Joseph Salem, partner and travel, transportation and hospitality practice lead at Arthur D. Little, Middle East Paul Sullivan, an energy and environment expert at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, US, said that the Kingdom could advance its technical capabilities to make EVs more popular and affordable. 'Saudi Arabia lives in its own auto market but also the world auto market. It must adjust to both. But it has the benefit of large cash flows and stocks to invest in new technologies and industries,' said Sullivan. Citing a Goldman Sachs study, Arthur D. Little's Salem said that battery costs fell by over 85 percent in lithium pricing from 2022 to 2024, reducing global EV costs and helping automakers close the price gap with ICE vehicles. Hel added that battery pack prices are expected to drop nearly 50 percent by 2026, making EVs' total cost of ownership comparable to ICE vehicles in select major markets, including Saudi Arabia. 'With battery prices projected to reach $80 per kWh by 2026, EVs are becoming more affordable, making them increasingly attractive to Saudi consumers, where price is a key factor for a sizeable section of the customer base,' added Salem. Advancing innovation Experts who spoke to Arab News also praised recent innovations in Saudi Arabia, including a new lithium extraction technique developed by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. In January, researchers at KAUST presented their innovative technology in a study published in the Journal of Science, which describes a method for direct lithium extraction from brine in oilfields and seawater. Lithium, a critical mineral for batteries, is present in these sources at very low concentrations, making it difficult to extract in useful quantities. However, this new technology makes this otherwise inaccessible element extractable on an industrial scale. The technology was demonstrated on a pilot test 100,000 times larger than that of a university laboratory, and its cost was competitive relative to standard lithium mining extraction techniques. 'KAUST's new lithium-extraction technique could reduce costs for Saudi as well as other battery makers. This last bit will happen when this lithium extracting technology spreads outside of Saudi Arabia or other similar methods are used across the world,' said Johns Hopkins University's Sullivan. He added: 'The lithium and battery industries are looking for ways to cut costs. This will drive more invention and research. Things can move quickly. A company and a country cannot rest on its victories in a quickly changing and uncertain world. This invention must be exploited quickly before it becomes obsolete by other inventions.' Decker said that KAUST's development of the new lithium extraction technique is a promising step toward integrating Saudi Arabia's mining sector into the global lithium value chain. Salem praised KAUST's innovative efforts, noting that the breakthrough could extract up to 10,000 times more lithium from oilfield brine and seawater. This would reduce reliance on global markets and help secure a stable, cost-effective supply for domestic battery production and EV manufacturing. The Arthur D. Little official further added that this new technology could open up potential lithium export opportunities and position the Kingdom as a global hub for critical battery materials, driving economic diversification. 'This innovation aligns with Saudi Arabia's industrial strategy to localize the entire battery value chain — from critical minerals to EVs — and to build a new high-tech export sector,' said Salem. Geographical shifts According to the IEA, China produces over three-quarters of all batteries sold globally. The energy think tank added that batteries in China were reported to be priced lower than in Europe and North America by over 30 percent and 20 percent, respectively. Declining battery prices in recent years are a major reason why many EVs in China are now cheaper than their conventional counterparts. However, Sullivan said that this Chinese dominance in the battery industry will not last forever, as other regions are also embracing methods to effectively manufacture batteries in a cost-effective manner. 'China may dominate for some time, but it will likely not have such a large share of the overall battery market forever. The US and the EU are putting significant efforts into developing their battery industries. For example, India may be a battery giant in the future. Japan and South Korea also want to build greater battery industries and markets,' said Sullivan. He added: 'Every industry must deal with and respond to threats of substitution, supplier power, buyer power, and threats of new entry. Saudi Arabia could play these five forces for success in the future. Economics and business do not stand still for long.' Salem said that the Kingdom's lithium extraction technology, if combined with the right ecosystem, could offer a chance to reduce reliance on China for selected components and materials, strengthening local supply chains. 'China's policy shift is a wake-up call — it exposes global vulnerabilities but also creates a window for Saudi Arabia to assert strategic autonomy and emerge as a regional battery and EV manufacturing hub,' said Salem. In early 2025, China's Ministry of Commerce proposed new export restrictions targeting critical battery technologies, including lithium extraction and cathode material production. These measures would require government approval for technology exports and thus have intensified global concern over dependence risks. Commenting on China's dominance in the battery market, Decker noted that heavy geographic concentration in any critical supply chain raises concerns about resilience and long-term sustainability. 'Localization and diversification are becoming strategic priorities for many countries looking to build more independent and secure clean energy ecosystems. China will continue to play a central role in the battery industry, given its dominance in both processing capacity and control over key raw materials,' said Decker. He added: 'Collaboration, innovation, and transparent supply chain practices will be crucial to ensure global progress in the energy transition.'
Al Arabiya
2 hours ago
- Al Arabiya
Max Verstappen Off The Pace With 'Undriveable' Car In Qualifying For Red Bull Home Race
Max Verstappen felt his Red Bull car was undriveable as he found himself off the pace at his Formula 1 team's home race. A lack of grip and an unfortunately timed yellow flag both played a role as Verstappen placed seventh in qualifying at the Red Bull Ring, where he's won five times, to further dent his hopes of defending the F1 title. A frustrating day for Verstappen and the wider Red Bull team came amid widespread speculation over his future after Mercedes driver George Russell indicated on Thursday he believed Verstappen was in talks about a move. 'The car is completely undriveable. I have no grip,' Verstappen told the team over the radio part way through Saturday qualifying. Things got worse later on as he had to back off his final lap of the session because of a yellow flag. Speaking to British broadcaster Sky Sports after the session, Verstappen indicated he believed his car was miles off pole, set by McLaren's Lando Norris, even without the yellow flag. 'Hopefully tomorrow we can at least be competitive with Ferrari or Mercedes,' Verstappen said. 'I don't know, even because with the balance we had in quali that's for sure not going to look great for tomorrow, but we will analyze everything.' Verstappen's teammate Yuki Tsunoda was even less competitive as he qualified 18th and complained he, too, was lacking grip. Norris said he and McLaren expected Red Bull to be quicker here this weekend after both teams brought upgraded parts to Austria, but said he wouldn't write off Verstappen. Piastri leads Norris by 22 points in the standings, with Verstappen third, 21 points further back. 'Max has been our main contender for every race this season,' Norris said. 'Just because he's had a slightly worse qualifying today, definitely not going to count him out of the race tomorrow and definitely not going to count him out for the rest of the season.'
Asharq Al-Awsat
a day ago
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Norris Leads McLaren Practice One-Two After Dunne Shines
Lando Norris led Formula One leader Oscar Piastri in a McLaren one-two in second practice for the Austrian Grand Prix on Friday after George Russell went fastest for Mercedes in the opening session. Norris had handed his car to Alex Dunne for an impressive F1 practice debut for the Irish rookie and Formula Two leader, but the Briton was right up to speed as soon as he got back behind the wheel. After Russell's best of one minute 05.542 seconds in the early afternoon, Norris -- 22 points behind Piastri in the title battle after 10 of 24 races -- lapped in 1:04.580 with Piastri 0.157 slower. Red Bull's reigning champion Max Verstappen, a five-times winner at his team's home circuit, was the only other driver under the five second mark with a 1:04.898. "We've shown a bit more pace than some of the others. I certainly think they're going to catch up. Max is not far behind and they usually improve a lot into Saturday," said Norris. Russell, winner from pole position in Canada two weeks ago after the McLarens collided, was sixth in practice two with Lance Stroll a surprise fourth for Aston Martin and Charles Leclerc fifth for Ferrari. "First practice was definitely a surprise to us," commented Russell. "The McLarens were mighty strong, especially this afternoon. I don't really see that changing. We'll do our best but I don't really think we'll be fighting for pole." Verstappen was without regular race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase for the weekend due to personal reasons with Simon Rennie taking over. "Overall today was quite straightforward and we didn't have any big issues," said Verstappen. "He (Rennie) has a lot of experience so it has been very very good today, he is straight up and it was nice." DUNNE IMPRESSES Dunne, given track time as part of team obligations to give rookie drivers F1 experience, was the talk of the first session when he lapped fourth fastest and only 0.069 slower than Piastri. Still only 19 and the first Irish driver in 22 years to take part in a grand prix weekend, he thanked the team over the radio as the chequered flag fell. "A little boy's dream came true, and this is definitely the best day of my life," he said. "Thank you everyone for letting me do this, and thanks to Lando as well for trusting me with his car." McLaren team boss Andrea Stella cautioned not to read too much into the time, however. "Alex has been quite diligent and impressive, and then he also had the chance to show some speed and, no surprise, he is a fast driver," said the Italian. "I think we need to be a bit careful looking at the lap times, because his came later on in the stint when the fuel was down. But I think encouraging and impressive in terms of Alex himself, and also I think a good session for McLaren." Austria has the shortest lap of the year in terms of time and all but 20th-placed Haas driver Oliver Bearman were within a second of Russell in the opening session. Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton was ninth and 10th respectively in the sessions as Ferrari made a difficult start to their preparations with mechanics working on both cars during practice one. Hamilton was also warned for impeding Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli. Leclerc sat out the first session with Swedish reserve Dino Beganovic getting some track time and finishing 18th. Fernando Alonso had a big spin in his Aston Martin but kept the car out of the barriers.
