Affordable Luxury Sedan

Meet the Maextro S800

There’s a new luxury player in town, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons. The Maextro S800, a product of the collaboration between China’s JAC Motors and tech giant Huawei, is challenging the likes of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. While those German luxury sedans come with sky-high price tags, the S800 offers similar opulence at a fraction of the cost. At about $98,600 for the base model, compared to over $200,000 for the Mercedes alternative, the S800 gives buyers in China a much more budget-friendly option to cruise around in style.

Incredible Demand

In just under a week from its debut, the S800 has already made a splash in the market. Securing 3,600 orders in seven days, with 1,600 of those in the first 24 hours, it’s clear this car is resonating with buyers. Such success could be attributed to the S800’s alluring price point, positioning it as accessible luxury.

Luxury for Less

Priced at $141,600 for the fully-loaded model, the Maextro S800 still stands well-below the Maybach’s $204,600 tag in the local market. For those interested in size and presence on the road, the S800 impresses too. It measures a whopping 215.7 inches long and 78.7 inches wide, making it comparable in dimensions to its more expensive counterparts. The car also offers eye-catching design elements that hint at something grand and stately.

The Interior Experience

Inside, the Maextro S800 doesn’t skimp on luxury. Its interior technology is futuristic, featuring a digital gauge cluster, a 15.6-inch infotainment display, and an additional 16-inch passenger screen. To enhance the driving experience, there’s also a head-up display and two wireless smartphone chargers alongside an awe-inspiring 43-speaker sound system. Buyers can choose between a four-seater with plush rear captain chairs or a more traditional five-seater configuration.

Performance

The Maextro S800 offers multiple performance options. Besides a 523 horsepower electric vehicle model with a 95 kWh battery, there’s also a range-extender version. This model features a 1.5-liter engine functioning as a generator, coupled with a 65 kWh battery. Both configurations pack a punch with 523 horsepower, but for those seeking serious power, an 852 horsepower tri-motor version is available.

The Drive

On the road, the S800 feels much like the luxury cars it aims to rival. It’s incredibly smooth and quiet, with an air of sophistication that matches its external charm. Although it shares dimensions with the likes of an S-Class, the Maextro offers a far more technologically advanced cabin. Its manageable price and compelling features make it a notable contender for those considering a high-end sedan.