Preview: Maybach Cabrio

DaimlerChrysler’s ultra-luxury brand Maybach, suffering from poor sales and a limited lineup, could expand its range with rumored convertible and SUV models in an effort to increase profitability. Though chances of a high-end SUV are slim, the likelihood of a convertible model based on the current 57 limo is high considering that sister-brand Mercedes-Benz has confirmed production of its own four-door luxury drop-top.

Sharing its underpinnings with the Maybach 57, the new cabrio will seat up to four passengers and is expected to be produced in a limited run of just 25 to 50 cars. UK’s Car reports that each model will be made to special order with the first deliveries likely to kick-in late next year.

The car will be differentiated from its sedan sibling thanks to a new grille, lights and bumpers, and it will likely feature an electrically operated soft-top as a folding metal roof would be too heavy and complex in a vehicle this size.

Maybach’s annual production stood at just 280 cars last year, a smidgen compared to its main rivals Bentley and Rolls-Royce, whose production levels range into the thousands. The story gets worse because both competitors are preparing new or updated models, which means Maybach will have to really kick it up a gear.