Scoop! Official Maybach spy shots

MERCEDES-BENZ has scooped itself by issuing "spy" photography of a disguised super-luxury Maybach sedan undergoing public road testing.

The Maybach, shown in concept form at the Tokyo motor show in 1997, will be launched in late 2002 after two years of on-road testing around the world by more than 20 prototypes.

It will be powered by a bi-turbo, 6.0-litre V12 and go head to head with the new BMW- developed Rolls-Royce and VW-owned Bentley and Bugatti limousines - all due around the same time.

The Maybach will be available in two lengths - 5.7 metres and almost 6.3 metres - and Mercedes promises it will feature state of the art technology, including an air suspension system and new developments in noise suppression and climatic comfort.

According to Mercedes-Benz Australian spokesman Toni Andreevski, the decision to issue official spy photography was made because of the number of prototypes that will be out in public.

"I think it's just a case of jump the gun and get it out there," he said.

Mr Andreevski confirmed there had been some Australian interest in the car on the basis of the Tokyo show car, which the production version is expected to look very similar too.

"There have been a few people express interest, a couple in Melbourne and Sydney, but until we get price details we won't be taking deposits," he said.

Mercedes-Benz will enable customers to configure their Maybach to their individual requirements with respect to materials, colours, appointments and technical features, assisted by engineers and designers, in a new building which is under construction at the Sindelfingen plant.