Mercedes-Maybach S600 to start at $190,275

FLAGSHIP RETURNS AFTER TWO-YEAR HIATUS

   Maybach is back. And remember, those words don’t rhyme, despite what Rick Ross says. The 2016 Mercedes-Maybach S600 will start at $190,275, including destination charges, when it hits dealerships in April. We’ll have a full drive review next week.

   The Maybach gets 8 extra inches of length over the standard S-class, much of it in the passenger part of the cabin, and features a selection of ritzy options for the discerning buyer. Mercedes stresses that the Maybach is not an equipment line, but a sub-brand like Mercedes-AMG. Mercedes and Daimler jettisoned the name in November of 2013 due to slow sales, but reportedly always had plans to bring Maybach fully under the Mercedes banner.

   The Maybach S600 will arrive with a twin-turbo V12 delivering 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque, which is available from just 1,900 rpm. We'll assume some super-smooth automatic transmission will send power rearward -- probably the seven-speed from the S550.

   Standard equipment includes a driver assistance package with Intelligent Drive, Magic Body Control, Night View Assist Plus, a warmth and comfort package with a heated windshield, head-up display, LED Intelligent Lighting System, Burmester high-end 3D surround sound system, executive rear seat package, rear seat entertainment and the air balance package.