Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XXV

1 8 9 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I four, the G 650 Landaulet is a unique combination of luxurious chauffeured saloon and heavy-duty off-roader. Should we have needed privacy from the driver, an electrically operated glass partition separates the rear compartment from the driver's section and the glass can be changed from transparent to opaque at the press of a button. Its wheelbase has been stretched by 578mm giving it an overall length of 5345mm with a height of 2235mm. To put that into layman’s terms, it means I needed to use the folding footstep, which dropped down from the fixed footstep that sits below the entrance to the door. Yes, it’s that tall! The rear interior is a complete lift from the S-Class Maybach with similar legroom and two identical powered, multi-adjustable seats. To afford the rear passengers the optimum in comfort, it has a large business console with thermal cup holders between the seats which allow beverages to be cooled or heated over time. The controls for opening or closing the glass partition are integrated behind the cup holders and similarly to an aircraft seat, the centre console comes with two tables which can be folded in or out with one hand. The tables have leather inserts that provide a comfortable writing surface and are big enough for tablets and notebook computers. Arguably the best part of the seats, however, is the massage function which uses inflatable air chambers to offer nine types of massage, thoughmy tip is to go for the hot stone massage. Naturally the two 10-inch, high-resolution screens work individually for each occupant to control the entertainment, navigation, massage functions and climate control for each side. As you’d expect, the G 650 Landaulet’s off-roading credentials are unquestioned with the portal axles providing 450mm of ground clearance, similar to the AMG G 6x6 and G500 4x42, and it sits on 325/55 R 22 alloy wheels. Typical of the G-Series, the 650 uses three diff locks which can be engaged on the move as well as low range. With less than 100 to be made in total starting this autumn, its approximate AED 3.2 million price will guarantee its exclusivity. And if the off-roading doesn’t appeal, its AMG heart still ensures it will get you to 100kmh in 5.6 seconds and on to a governed top speed of 230kmh.