Mercedes to expand Maybach sub brand

Mercedes-Benz is set to stretch its revived Maybach brand - both literally and figuratively.

The German company, which revealed its range-topping Mercedes-Maybach S600 at the Los Angeles motor show on Wednesday, has re-created the ill-fated nameplate as a sub-brand rather than a stand alone entity. It says it will sit alonside the Mercedes-AMG perfomance division as the ultimate expression of luxury and hasn't discounted the notion of applying the Maybach name to other variants in its line-up.

While the V12-powered S600 is the only confirmed model at this stage, it is expected that a slightly more affordable - but still just as opulent - V8-powered S500 Maybach will be offered when the vehicle is launched late next year.

Beyond that, Mercedes-Benz Vice President of design, Gordon Wagener, hinted to Drive at the LA motor show that the much anticipated super long-wheelbase, six-seat S-Class Pullman will also wear the Maybach name, meaning it will officially be called the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman when it is revealed in 2015.

When asked whether Mercedes-Benz is also planning a super luxurious variant of its re-named GLS SUV to take on the likes of Bentley and potentially even Rolls-Royce, Wagener smiled and coyly said "It is something that is possible..."

"Nothing has been confirmed, but this is a segment with a lot of growth - not in outright volume of course. So why not?"