Mercedes S-class, Maybach and AMG facelifts revealed

The revised Mercedes-Benz S-class introduces a new range of in-line six-cylinder engines – the first for the German carmaker since it adopted V6 units in 1997.

The new in-line engines, which are set to find their way into other models, share their architecture with Mercedes’ existing range of four-cylinder engines and are planned to be introduced in diesel form first in most international markets. 

The heavily related petrol unit, which comes combined with a new 48-volt electric system that allows it to run both an electric booster compressor and an integrated starter generator as part of a mild-hybrid drivetrain strategy aimed at netting greater performance and reduced fuel consumption, is then set to follow in 2018, according to Mercedes. The global line-up – yet to be confirmed for India – includes the S350d and the S400d, both of which use the 3.0-litre, turbocharged in-line six-cylinder diesel engine in two states of tune and develop 286hp and 340hp, respectively. Also included in the launch line-up for the facelifted S-class is the S560 – a model which resurrects one of the most revered model designations ever used by Mercedes-Benz. It will use the 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol from the existing S500. There will also be an S560e, which will replace the current S500e, which runs the 3.0-litre, turbocharged in-line six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric booster compressor and an electric motor in combination with a 48-volt electric system.

Further up the line-up, the updated S63 eschews the 5.5-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine of its predecessor for the most powerful iteration of AMG’s 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 powerplant. Power has increased by 26hp to 620hp, with torque remaining the same as previously at 899Nm.

The performance saloon is set to hit 100kph from standstill in just 3.5sec, beating its predecessor by 0.5sec. The range-topping S65 continues to run a 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V12 delivering 630hp. Further models will be introduced in 2018, including replacements for the S300h, S400 as well as the upmarket V12-powered S600 and S650 Maybach models.

The facelifted S-class is visually distinguished by a series of subtle exterior styling changes, including new-look grilles across the range, revised headlamps featuring a distinctive new three-stripe LED daytime running light graphic, re-profiled bumpers and altered crystal-effect tail-lamps.

Inside, there are revised digital instrument and infotainment monitors offering the choice between classic, sporty and progressive themes, new touch-sensitive controls for the infotainment system as well as revised cruise control system controls within a redesigned steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charging option and new LED lighting offering up to 64 different interior colour themes.

In a first, the new S-class also offers so-called energising comfort control – a new optional system that networks the air conditioning, fragrance feature, massaging seats, lighting and sound system to boost comfort and driver well-being across six programmes: freshness, warmth, vitality, joy, comfort and training.

Among a wide range of driver aids, the upmarket saloon can also be optioned the most advanced autonomous driving technology offered by Mercedes-Benz, the so-called Distronic Active Proximity Control and Active Steer Assist system. It automatically accelerates and brakes the new S-class saloon within posted speed limits, while providing autonomous steering for periods of up to 30sec.

Further advances for the S-class saloon include an upgraded version of Mercedes-Benz’s Magic Body Control system featuring the Curve function that tilts the body by nearly 3.0 degrees in corners – as already offered by the S-class coupe. The LED headlamps have also been revised with a new optional ultra-range function that is claimed to offer main beam light intensity performance of over 1 lux for a distance of up to 650 metres.

Expect Mercedes to bring in the updated S-class to India in the near future. 

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