Mercedes S-Class Adds Diesel Hybrid | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz S 300h | メルセデス・ベンツ S 300h

Diesel Hybrid Added to Mercedes S-Class

Mercedes-Benz Japan has announced the "S 300 h," its first clean diesel hybrid model in Japan, as a new addition to the S-Class lineup. Sales began on August 27th.

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Torque of a Latest V8 Engine with Class-Leading Fuel Economy

Mercedes-Benz introduced its first clean diesel model in Japan, the "E 320 CDI," in 2006. Since then, it has expanded its clean diesel offerings with the "M-Class" in 2010, the "G-Class" in 2013, and the "GL" this January. In March, it launched the "E-Class" and "CLS-Class" with four-cylinder clean diesel engines, solidifying its pioneering role in the Japanese market for clean diesel models. Now, the company has added the S 300 h, its first clean diesel hybrid model, to the S-Class lineup.

The powertrain features a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder clean diesel engine producing 204ps (150kW) and 500Nm of torque, combined with a highly efficient electric motor delivering 27ps (20kW) and 250Nm. Mercedes claims this combination achieves both powerful performance, with torque comparable to the latest V8 engines, and excellent fuel efficiency. Notably, the model utilizes the electric motor alone for initial acceleration, ensuring smooth and satisfying acceleration while maintaining the S-Class's signature quietness.

Furthermore, a sailing function disengages the clutch in the transmission during medium to high-speed cruising when the accelerator pedal is released, disconnecting the engine from the drivetrain to reduce driving resistance. These features contribute to a fuel economy of 20.7 km/ℓ (19.5 km/ℓ for the S 300 h Long) under the JC08 mode, qualifying all models for eco-car tax incentives. The transmission is a 7-speed automatic.

At the press conference, a commercial showcasing a fuel efficiency test of the S 300 h, titled "Diesel Hybrid 1,540km Challenge," was screened. The film depicted the model completing a 1,540km route from Cape Sata, the southernmost tip of Honshu in Kagoshima Prefecture, to the "Mercedes-Benz Connection" in Roppongi, Tokyo, without refueling. It achieved an average fuel economy of an impressive 25.6 km/ℓ, a remarkable figure for a full-size saloon weighing over two tons.

The lineup includes three variants: the S 300 h, the S 300 h Exclusive with enhanced features, and the S 300 h Long with improved rear-seat comfort. Prices are ¥9.98 million, ¥12.70 million, and ¥13.40 million, respectively. All models are available with right-hand drive only.