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Mercedes-Benz's New S-Class Pullman Limousine
STUTTGART, Germany — Mercedes-Benz has launched an updated version of its plush Pullman limousine, which is based on the latest S-Class sedan. The six-seater sets out to establish a new level of opulence in the limousine class, with palatial levels of interior accommodation and the sort of luxury appointments that will make Maybach owners turn green with envy.
Whereas Maybach has struggled against Bentley and Rolls-Royce in key markets, Mercedes-Benz is banking on the new S600 Pullman to draw in sales at the very top of its lineup. Among the traditional customers are governments, heads of state and hotel chains. However, Mercedes-Benz also says private sales are playing an increasingly important role in limousine sales, especially across Asia and the Middle East.
At a sprawling 250.2 inches, the new Pullman is a whopping 45.3 inches longer than the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class. It even outstretches the long-wheelbase Maybach to the tune of 7.5 inches. The increase comes courtesy of a lengthy 169.9-inch wheelbase, which has necessitated an additional middle side window as well as major modifications to the floorpan.
The oversize dimensions create sufficient cabin space for six individual seats, including four in back in a traditional limo-style face-to-face position. Mercedes-Benz has also raised the height of the rear section of the roof to help provide easier access and increase headroom.
Powering the S600 Pullman is a detuned version of the Maybach's twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 delivering 517 horsepower and a prodigious 612 pound-feet of torque. It channels its reserves to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.
The S600 Pullman is hand-built to order on a special production line alongside the Maybach at Mercedes-Benz's Sindelfingen factory on the outskirts of Stuttgart. No pricing details have been announced, as Mercedes-Benz clearly adheres to the adage: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Mercedes also announced a new armored protection program for the S600 Pullman. The limousine will come with the option of B6 and B7 resistance levels, meaning it will be able to resist military standard small-arms projectiles and provide protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features of the program include run-flat tires, a self-sealing fuel tank and an onboard fire extinguisher system.
What this means to you: The new S600 Pullman begs the obvious question: Why on earth would you opt for a Maybach, which sits on older underpinnings and lacks its in-house limousine rival's standard of space and features? — Andreas Stahl, Correspondent
Whereas Maybach has struggled against Bentley and Rolls-Royce in key markets, Mercedes-Benz is banking on the new S600 Pullman to draw in sales at the very top of its lineup. Among the traditional customers are governments, heads of state and hotel chains. However, Mercedes-Benz also says private sales are playing an increasingly important role in limousine sales, especially across Asia and the Middle East.
At a sprawling 250.2 inches, the new Pullman is a whopping 45.3 inches longer than the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class. It even outstretches the long-wheelbase Maybach to the tune of 7.5 inches. The increase comes courtesy of a lengthy 169.9-inch wheelbase, which has necessitated an additional middle side window as well as major modifications to the floorpan.
The oversize dimensions create sufficient cabin space for six individual seats, including four in back in a traditional limo-style face-to-face position. Mercedes-Benz has also raised the height of the rear section of the roof to help provide easier access and increase headroom.
Powering the S600 Pullman is a detuned version of the Maybach's twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 delivering 517 horsepower and a prodigious 612 pound-feet of torque. It channels its reserves to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.
The S600 Pullman is hand-built to order on a special production line alongside the Maybach at Mercedes-Benz's Sindelfingen factory on the outskirts of Stuttgart. No pricing details have been announced, as Mercedes-Benz clearly adheres to the adage: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Mercedes also announced a new armored protection program for the S600 Pullman. The limousine will come with the option of B6 and B7 resistance levels, meaning it will be able to resist military standard small-arms projectiles and provide protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features of the program include run-flat tires, a self-sealing fuel tank and an onboard fire extinguisher system.
What this means to you: The new S600 Pullman begs the obvious question: Why on earth would you opt for a Maybach, which sits on older underpinnings and lacks its in-house limousine rival's standard of space and features? — Andreas Stahl, Correspondent
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