The Inline-6 Returns, as Foretold

The exterior design, instantly recognizable as new, is characterized by the shape of the air intakes located in the lower left and right sections of the bumper. These, along with the enlarged air intake below the grille, contribute to a powerful front face. While the basic shape of the MULTIBEAM LED headlights remains largely unchanged from the previous model, their internal configuration has been enhanced, offering a stylish design even when unlit.

Turning to the rear, the new model is signaled by the redesigned rear combination lights and bumper, which share the same shape but feature altered illumination and design. While the exterior receives only minimal updates, the interior has undergone significant advancements.

The first notable change is Mercedes' shift away from its long-standing focus on V6 engines and rear-wheel drive. Excluding AMG models, the standard diesel variants announced include the 'S 350 d 4MATIC,' powered by a 3.0-liter diesel turbo producing 286 hp and 600 Nm of torque, and the 'S 400 d 4MATIC,' also with a 3.0-liter diesel turbo but generating 340 hp and 700 Nm. Both of these models are equipped with inline-six engines.

Mercedes' decision to revive the inline-six after approximately 20 years is attributed to two main factors: improved production efficiency through modular design with inline-four engines, and the advantage of a more compact engine design (including auxiliary components) thanks to a single-sided turbocharger placement on the exhaust side. Indeed, V-engines require separate turbochargers for each bank (in the case of twin-turbo setups), and single-turbo configurations can complicate exhaust routing. The inline-six offers significant benefits in terms of simpler turbocharger integration. Unlike BMW, which emphasizes driving pleasure and a visceral throttle response derived from engine smoothness, Mercedes' approach prioritizes mechanical efficiency and rational engineering, aligning with its image of robust and reliable vehicles.

Furthermore, both of these inline-six diesel turbo models are currently offered exclusively with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. While it's premature to make definitive statements without seeing future model additions, this suggests a strong emphasis on AWD as the most stable and secure drivetrain system.

Hybrid Powertrains for Gasoline Engines

Meanwhile, the gasoline engine lineup includes the 'S 560 4MATIC,' featuring a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that produces 469 hp and 700 Nm of torque. Users who recognize the '560' designation are likely in their 50s or older, and the revival of this classic naming convention is quite catchy.

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC+

For those wondering about the gasoline engines, in contrast to the inline-six diesel, Mercedes plans to introduce a new inline-six gasoline engine called the 'M256.' This engine integrates a starter and generator into a single high-capacity 48V motor, positioned between the transmission and the engine.

During acceleration, this motor assists the engine's output, and during deceleration, it regenerates energy. This means the inline-six gasoline engine will come standard with mild-hybrid capabilities. The acceleration is said to be comparable to that of a conventional V8 engine, making its arrival highly anticipated.

Additionally, Mercedes-AMG has simultaneously announced the 'AMG S 63 4MATIC+,' featuring a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine producing 612 hp and 900 Nm of torque on a long wheelbase, and the 'AMG S 65,' the flagship luxury model with a 6.0-liter V12 twin-turbo engine delivering 630 hp and 1000 Nm of torque, also on a long wheelbase. The flagship luxury model, the 'Mercedes-Maybach S 680,' was also unveiled.

Mercedes-AMG S 65

Mercedes-Maybach S 680

Comprehensive ADAS for Fully Autonomous Driving

Alongside these powertrain advancements, the new S-Class also brings significant news with further evolution in its driver assistance functions.

Particularly noteworthy is the evolution of ADAS, incorporating technological feedback from autonomous driving development. This includes 'DISTRONIC Active Proximity Control' and 'Active Steering Assist,' which support driving by maintaining a safe distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically control speed at curves and highway junctions using onboard cameras and map data. Also featured is 'Active Lane Change Assist,' already present in the E-Class.

Other notable ADAS features include 'Active Emergency Stop Assist,' which automatically stops the vehicle if the driver is detected to be inactive for a prolonged period; 'Following Vehicle in Tailback,' allowing automatic restart up to 30 seconds after stopping in traffic jams on highways or similar roads, following the movement of the vehicle ahead; 'Traffic Sign Assist,' which recognizes speed limits via navigation data and alerts the driver if they are exceeded; and 'Remote Parking Assist,' enabling remote parking control from outside the vehicle via smartphone for tight spaces where entry and exit are difficult.

Additionally, the 'MULTIBEAM LED HEADLIGHTS,' which detect traffic conditions and automatically adjust light distribution since their introduction in 2013, have been upgraded to 'ULTRA RANGE MAIN BEAM.' The 'MAGIC BODY CONTROL,' praised for its carpet-like ride quality, has also been enhanced with a curve-tilting function.

Inside, the interior features a large display composed of two 12.3-inch screens, now integrated into a more cohesive design with three display styles: 'Classic,' 'Sporty,' and 'Progressive.' The steering wheel incorporates touch sensors, allowing for swipe gestures similar to a smartphone screen. The switchgear has also been redesigned for more intuitive use, enabling the driver to control the entire infotainment system without removing their hands from the wheel. Voice control is also available.

As before, all interior lighting utilizes LEDs, with ambient lighting offering 64 color choices. Individual settings can be applied to trim elements, the central display, the front storage compartment on the center console, the steering wheel, door pockets, front and rear footwells, the overhead control panel, and the tweeters if the vehicle is equipped with the high-end 3D surround sound system.

The new S-Class is scheduled to begin deliveries in Europe in July, with an anticipated introduction in Japan within the year.