LA MOTOR SHOW: Mercedes-Maybach S 600

Maybach is back, but not as you know it. As expected, Mercedes-Benz has announced the return of its failed uber-luxury brand in the form of an extra-long-wheelbase V12-powered S-Class dubbed the Mercedes-Maybach S 600.

See here for the first time in official images, the extra-long and extra-luxurious limousine will make its world debut at the upcoming Los Angeles and Guangzhou motor shows.

Picking up where the discontinued Maybach 57 and 62 models left off, the Maybach-badged S 600 will compete with top-end limousines like the Bentley Flying Spur and Rolls-Royce Ghost.

The first model from the new Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand will be differentiated from other S-Class models by a number of subtle exterior details, including longer rear doors, a more formal grille and a MAYBACH bootlid badge.

The more spacious rear section of its expansive, redesigned cabin will feature individual power-adjustable seats similar to those seen in previous Maybach models.

Other details remain under wraps, but the Mercedes-Maybach S600 will be powered by a revised version of the twin-turbo 6.0-litre AMG V12s that power the standard S 600 L and upcoming S 65 AMG.

Daimler's new Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand will be expanded by an even longer-wheelbase S-Class model called the S 600 Pullman, which will be revealed next year with seating for up to six.

The Mercedes-Maybach name could also appear on a new top-shelf version of the large GL-Class SUV (which will be renamed the GLS next year) to rival Bentley's upcoming SUV.

"The Mercedes-Benz brand stands for the aspiration to deliver the best in terms of products, technology and services," said Mercedes-Benz Cars sales and marketing board member, Ola Källenius.

"For us, this means that we offer our customers vehicles that, by virtue of their different characteristics and specific flair, are able to fit in with all sorts of individual lifestyles.

"In the S-Class segment in particular, customers have very high expectations with regard to exclusivity and individuality. Mercedes-Maybach enables us to fulfil these desires in the exclusive top segment of the market."