Maybach in need of a comeback

It seems that all is not well with Mercede’s elite and ultra expensive Maybach line. Sales of exotics and super-expensive luxo barges may be at an all time high but it seems the super rich aren’t buying just anything with a hefty price tag – it’s got to have a little panache as well.

Billed as the World’s best cars, a Maybach no doubt comes close to fitting the bill but they lack that certain “something” needed to make them special. With a cool AUD 1million or so burning a hole in your pocket, would you opt for the mundane looking Maybach or the ultra-cool Rolls-Royce Phantom?

It’s that vexing question (and ones like it) that has seen Maybach suffer a little on the sales front in recent times. Originally when introduced to the North American market in 2001, Maybach had a network of 71 dealers and a sales target of 600 units per year. Today, the network of dealers has shrunk to 42 as 29 dealers handed back their Maybach franchise due to slower than expected sales.

Mercedes-Benz are believed to be looking at compensating the dealers for their losses. With only 146 Maybachs sold in North America last year the remaining 71 dealers are probably questioning their involvement in the brand as well. Where this will leave Maybach over the coming years is uncertain but it doesn’t bode well.

Steane

[Source: The Torque Report]