Mercedes-Benz S-Class Model Change | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The Flagship Mercedes-Benz Undergoes a Full Model Change

The New S-Class Finally Unveiled

Information about Mercedes-Benz's flagship model, the S-Class, had been先行公開 (pre-released) multiple times, building anticipation for the full reveal. Today, it has finally made its world premiere.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Starting with Three Models

The S-Class, Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan and the benchmark for luxury cars, has been updated and revealed as anticipated. The world premiere took place at the Airbus delivery center in Hamburg, Germany.

The new S-Class measures 5,116mm in length, 1,899mm in width, and 1,496mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,035mm. The front and rear tracks are 1,624mm and 1,637mm, respectively. The long-wheelbase model measures 5,246mm in length, with a wheelbase of 3,165mm. While the width and height have slightly increased compared to the previous model, the overall length is marginally shorter despite an unchanged wheelbase.

Regarding the exterior design, as seen in the "F125!" at the Tokyo Motor Show, and the "Paris Motor Show 2012" report on "Aesthetics S" at the Paris Motor Show 2012, it is now clear that Mercedes-Benz's sedan design is transitioning from the traditional upward-sloping line towards a coupe-like downward-sloping line.Mercedes-Benz Sedan Designis transitioning from the traditional upward-sloping line towards a coupe-like downward-sloping line.

The front features striking LED headlights and large air intakes. The smooth lines are reminiscent of the recently released "E-Class" in Japan.

The aluminum-intensive body is available in 11 colors, with three new additions: Anthracite Blue, Ruby Black, and Diamond Silver.

Regarding safety features, as previously reported on OPENERS,as previously reported on OPENERSthe integration of stereo cameras, combined with radar, enables situational judgment previously impossible, leading to significant functional enhancements.

Additionally, these cameras allow the system to scan the road ahead and adjust the suspension accordingly, improving ride comfort through "Magic Body Control."

The interior, like other aspects,as already revealedis as expected.

Beyond the interior, it's worth noting that with the discontinuation of the Maybach brand,Maybachthe S-Class now offers an extensive range of luxurious options comparable to ultra-luxury vehicles. This includes four types of wood trim, six Nappa leather or "designo" leather seat options, and reclining rear seats. To further enhance the experience, it comes equipped with a sophisticated air purification system and the "Air Balance Package" for interior fragrance diffusion, leaving no compromises for a top-tier model.

The initial model lineup includes the "S 350 BlueTEC," "S 400 Hybrid," and "S 500." The "S 300 BlueTEC Hybrid" will be added later.

The "S 350 BlueTEC" is powered by a 2,987cc V6 diesel engine, producing 190kW (258ps) at 3,600rpm and 620Nm of torque between 1,600-2,400rpm. It accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.8 seconds. Fuel efficiency is an impressive 5.6 L/100km (approximately 17.8 km/L) even for the long-wheelbase model, with CO2 emissions ranging from 146-148g/km.

The "S 500" features a 4,663cc V8 twin-turbo engine, delivering 335kW (455ps) at 5,250rpm and 700Nm of torque between 1,800-3,500rpm. It achieves 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 8.6 L/100km (approximately 11.6 km/L) and CO2 emissions of 199g/km.

The "S 400 Hybrid" combines a 3,498cc V6 engine producing 225kW (306ps) at 6,500rpm and 370Nm of torque between 3,500-5,250rpm, with an electric motor delivering 20kW and 250Nm. It accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.8 seconds, achieves 6.3 L/100km (15.9 km/L) fuel efficiency, and emits 147g/km of CO2.

The "S 300 BlueTEC Hybrid" pairs a 2,143cc inline-4 diesel engine, producing 150kW (204ps) at 4,200rpm and 500Nm of torque between 1,600-1,800rpm, with an electric motor delivering 20kW and 250Nm. It accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds, boasts impressive environmental performance with 4.4 L/100km (22.7 km/L) fuel efficiency, and emits 115g/km of CO2.

Furthermore, a "S 500 Plug-in Hybrid" is planned for the future, which is expected to be the first in its class globally to achieve fuel consumption below 4 L/100km (25 km/L).

All models are equipped with the 7-speed automatic transmission, 7G TRONIC PLUS.

The prices for each model in Germany (including 19% VAT) are as follows:

S 350 BlueTEC (Short) | €79,789.50
S 350 BlueTEC (Long) | €85,323.00
S 400 Hybrid (Short) | €85,204.00
S 400 Hybrid (Long) | €91,094.50
S 500 (Short) | €104,601.00
S 500 (Long) | €107,635.50

While there has been no official announcement yet, derivative models such as AMG versions, coupes, and cabriolets are also anticipated in the future.

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