The world’s most expensive SUV

The German carmaker has unveiled a new Maybach with a retractable roof and a V12 engine, along with high-tech amenities such as thermal cup holders and folding tables stashed in the middle console.

Called Mercedes-Maybach G-Class 650, the firm unveiled the vehicle at the Geneva auto show and it has been deemed ‘the world’s most expensive SUV’ with a price tag of $500,000 - and only 99 will be built.

 The $500,000 SUV is Dailmer AG’s latest newcomer of its luxurious line, Maybach Marque, which was first released to meet the demand of higher-end models, reported Bloomberg Pursuits.
It boasts a V12 engine and a landaulet style – there is also a fabric roof that can be transformed into a convertible top.

 The vehicle stretches 17 feet long (5,345 millimeters), has a wheelbase of 11 feet (3,428 millimeters) and stands about seven feet tall (2,235 millimeters). 

Although the Maybach seats four passengers comfortably, those sitting in the back receive the best treatment – they have access to the retractable roof.

Riders simply press a button and the large folding top opens electrically to offer a view of the blue sky

There is also a feature that electrically operates glass partition separates the rear compartment from the driver’s section.

And the glass can be changed from transparent to opaque at the press of a button.

There is also a large business console that houses folding tables and thermal cup holders between the seats.

 The vehicle includes control for the rear air conditioning and two 25.4 cm (10 inch) high-resolution media displays.

Although the inside is built for luxury, the outside is designed to take on any terrain.

 ‘In contrast to a conventional rigid axle, the wheels are not at the height of the axle center, but are instead situated much further down on the axle heads owing to the portal transmission.’ 
‘Electrically extending entry aids make for easier access to the vehicle.’

And the vehicle is positioned almost half a meter (1.6 feet) above the ground to tackle the toughest terrain.

The Mercedes-Maybach G-Class 650 also features the same 100 percent differential locks as the rest of the vehicles in its family, which can be engaged while the vehicle is in motion.

‘The combination of this 4WD technology, unique in the off-road segment, makes the G 650 Landaulet stand out from all other 4x4 vehicles,’.

‘High drive comfort comes courtesy of the most powerful available engine, the Mercedes-AMG V12 biturbo, which delivers a maximum output of 463 kW (630 hp) with a peak torque of 1000 Newton-meters.’

The German carmaker plans to release the vehicle to the public after September.