The Mercedes-Maybach S 500 V8 (4MATIC G-TRONIC) represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the X222 generation of the S-Class, produced between 2015 and 2017. Positioned as the entry point into the Maybach lineup, it offered a significant step up in refinement and exclusivity compared to the standard S-Class models. This variant aimed to deliver a supremely comfortable and powerful driving experience, blending Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess with the bespoke craftsmanship expected of the Maybach brand. It served as a direct competitor to the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Bentley Flying Spur, targeting discerning customers seeking the ultimate in automotive luxury.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | Maybach S-class (X222) |
| Type (Engine) | S 500 V8 (456 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 207.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 318.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 456 Hp @ 5250-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.929 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.1 l (12.79 US qt | 10.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2795 kg (6161.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5453 mm (214.69 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2130 mm (83.86 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3365 mm (132.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Front overhang | 888 mm (34.96 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1200 mm (47.24 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.90 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S 500 V8 lies the M278.929 engine, a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance luxury offerings. The M278 features direct fuel injection, ensuring precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion and efficiency. Its hot-side turbochargers are positioned within the engine’s V, contributing to a compact design and reduced turbo lag. The engine produces 456 horsepower at 5250-5500 rpm and a substantial 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque between 1800-3500 rpm. This broad torque curve, coupled with the 9-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, provides effortless acceleration and smooth cruising. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is designed for efficiency and comfort, offering close gear ratios and quick shifts. It allows the engine to operate within its optimal power band more frequently, enhancing both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The S 500 V8 delivers a driving experience characterized by its smoothness and power. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the S 500 offers brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 4.8 seconds – and a relaxed highway demeanor. The 9G-TRONIC transmission contributes to this refinement, seamlessly shifting gears and minimizing disruptions. Compared to the V12-powered S 600, the S 500 feels slightly more agile, while the smaller engine requires a bit more effort to extract maximum performance. Against the six-cylinder S 400, the V8 offers a significant power advantage and a more authoritative feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Maybach S 500 came standard with a lavish array of features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and meticulously crafted details. Standard equipment included heated and ventilated front and rear seats with massage functions, a Burmester surround sound system, a rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens, and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats offered executive-style comfort with individual climate control and power adjustments. Optional extras included a champagne cooler, bespoke interior finishes, and a variety of driver-assistance systems. The exterior featured distinctive Maybach styling cues, including a unique grille and chrome accents.
Chassis & Braking
The X222 Maybach S-Class utilized an advanced chassis design focused on ride comfort and stability. It featured an AIRMATIC air suspension system with adaptive damping, which automatically adjusts to road conditions to provide a smooth and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned specifically for the Maybach, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control. The Maybach S 500’s weight necessitated a robust braking system to ensure confident stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Maybach S 500 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted that its price tag was substantial, and that it didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as some of its rivals. Fuel economy, while respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, was not a strong point. Compared to the S 600, the S 500 offered a better balance of performance and efficiency, while the S 400 represented a more affordable entry point into the S-Class range.
Legacy
The M278 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional turbocharger problems and oil leaks. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also demonstrated good durability. Today, the Maybach S 500 (X222) represents a compelling value on the used luxury car market, offering a significant amount of luxury and performance for the price. Its combination of comfort, technology, and prestige continues to appeal to discerning buyers seeking a truly special automotive experience. The X222 generation marked a significant step forward for the Maybach brand, re-establishing it as a serious contender in the ultra-luxury segment.
