Mercedes-Maybach SL Concept Teased As Flashy Bentley Rival

Gorden Wagener took to Instagram to tease the Concept Mercedes-Maybach SL. The all-newMercedes-AMG SL 63was launched recently as a racier, more focused sports car. Considering this and the fact that the grand Mercedes S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet are no more, the company clearly has room for a high-end drop-top that prioritizes comfort above all else. The Maybach-badged SL seems like it would fit the bill perfectly, and stays true to the brand's promise offocusing on top-end luxury models.

As is often the case, the teaser reveals only a few details like the Maybach grille and a dual-tone body that blends a red main section with a black hood. Wagener says that this car is "for customers who desire a sophisticated luxury driving and design experience."

While the new SL has a fabric roof to save weight, we wouldn't be surprised if the Maybach SL resorts to a folding metal roof for maximum refinement. Then again, theBentley Continental GT Convertiblehas a soft-top roof that does a masterful job of keeping the cabin quiet. That would likely be a direct rival for the Maybach SL when it arrives.

Nothing else is known about what could be Merc's most luxurious convertible yet, but expect it to employ one of the company's powerful twin-turbo V8 or V12 engines. A glamorous interior equipped with every conceivable luxury is a given, and as with other Maybachs, we expect the standard of modern tech to eclipse that of Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Matching those two rivals for sheer theatre and brand cachet will be a tougher ask for the Maybach SL.