Mercedes-Benz's Flagship Sedan, the S-Class, Undergoes a Full Model Change
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Mercedes-Benz's Flagship Sedan, the S-Class, Undergoes a Full Model Change
Mercedes-Benz Japan announced on January 28th that sales have begun for the fully redesigned flagship sedan, the S-Class, starting the same day.
Text by Akira Hara
Redefining Modern Luxury
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has always been the flagship model, incorporating all available technology of its time and setting the standard for automobiles worldwide. The previous generation, launched in 2013, surpassed 500,000 cumulative global sales, making it one of the most sought-after luxury sedans. The new S-Class, fully redesigned after eight years, is an ambitious model that redefines "modern luxury" through its "Sensual Purity" design, cutting-edge human-centric technology, and further advancements in safety.
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC
The exterior features headlights with the S-Class's signature three-point daytime running lights, designed to be thinner vertically and slightly smaller overall than the previous model, with a sharp edge. The hood is adorned with Mercedes-Benz's traditional three-pointed star mascot. A gently polygonal radiator grille and chrome accents on the lower front bumper create a cool yet luxurious impression. The side profile introduces the first-ever retractable door handles. The rear end is equipped with distinctive, horizontally elongated, two-part taillights.
The interior achieves a beautiful harmony of digital and analog elements, redefining the latest concept of "luxury." A new system allows personalization of front seats, steering wheel, side mirror positions, and cockpit display settings through biometric authentication (face, fingerprint, or voice) or a PIN code. Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch wide instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch vertically oriented OLED center display.
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC
The navigation system features a world-first AR (Augmented Reality) navigation system that projects information not only onto the display but also onto the windshield. It also includes a 3D cockpit display that makes elements like the speedometer appear three-dimensional. By consolidating many functions into the vertical display seamlessly integrated with the black panel of the center console, the number of switches is reduced, creating a simple and clean aesthetic. The increased wood trim area enhances the sense of luxury, complemented by a wood steering wheel inspired by lily flowers and ambient lighting that is ten times brighter than in the previous model.
Engines: 3.0-liter Inline-6 Diesel and 3.0-liter Inline-6 with Mild Hybrid
In terms of connectivity, the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system has been further evolved, and the "MBUX Interior Assistant," which recognizes hand gestures, has been adopted. Additionally, 11.6-inch displays are equipped for the rear left and right seats, and the world's first SRS rear airbags are installed. These, combined with SRS beltbags and cushion airbags to prevent occupant submarining, offer enhanced safety that flexibly adapts to occupant size and the presence of child seats.
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC
The driver assistance systems have also been updated with enhanced hardware. This enables efficient operation of numerous functions, including Active Steering Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Impulse Side.
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC Long
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC Long
The S 400 d 4MATIC and S 400 d 4MATIC Long models are equipped with the "OM656" 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine, boasting a maximum output of 330 hp (243 kW) and peak torque of 700 Nm, representing the highest level of performance among Mercedes-Benz passenger car clean diesel engines.
The S 500 4MATIC and S 500 4MATIC Long models feature a compact 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine, the "M256," along with an "ISG (Integrated Starter Generator)" and a "48V electrical system." This combination simultaneously achieves enhanced efficiency, comfort, and performance. The engine alone produces a maximum output of 435 hp (320 kW) and peak torque of 520 Nm. Additionally, the electric motor "ISG," positioned between the engine and transmission, generates a maximum output of 22 hp (16 kW) and peak torque of 250 Nm. The "48V electrical system" enables energy regeneration through braking, similar to conventional hybrid vehicles, charging a lithium-ion battery with approximately 1 kWh capacity.
Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC Long
The transmission is the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and all models are equipped with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The rear-axle steering system allows the rear wheels to tilt up to 4.5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning radius. At speeds above 60 km/h, they tilt up to 3 degrees in the same direction, significantly enhancing driving stability.
Prices range from 12.93 million to 17.24 million yen. The S500 4MATIC Long First Edition, a limited Japanese release of 540 units to commemorate the launch, is priced at 19.38 million and 20.40 million yen (with AMG Line).
