Mercedes-Benz's S-Class gets a 4-point update

The arrival of a new model from the star brand is always an event, especially when it is Mercedes-Benz’s flagship.

The Shanghai Motor Show served as the stage for Mercedes-Benz to present the update of the S-Class, which refreshes its look and technology, taking a step forward.

Design

The update of the current generation of the S-Class arrives three years after its market debut. The S-Class is therefore one of the oldest models in its segment, following the renewal of rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and the Lexus LS. Only the Audi A8 is older, although a new generation of the four-ringed model is expected later this same year.

Mercedes is aware of this and has decided to refresh the appearance of its largest saloon, adding certain details, among which stand out, for example, redesigned bumpers that are more eye-catching, and new front and rear lights, which form a more attractive lighting signature. There are also new body colours and new alloy wheels.

Interior

The interior of the current S-Class surprised friends and rivals alike at its launch. Breaking with what had previously been seen from the star brand, the cabin stood out for its very flowing lines, large screens and numerous light points, turning the S-Class into a sort of spaceship.

This time the update is somewhat lighter, at least visually, as it is limited to an improved information system that now integrates both screens, the instrument display and the multimedia system, into a single large panel. The colour options have also been expanded, with new lighting tones, new upholstery and new decorative trims.

Technology

Technology has always been one of the defining characteristics of Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class, a vehicle that has been considered a pioneer for decades. The German brand intends to extend its dominance over time, substantially expanding the technological load of its large saloon.

The renewed S-Class will be able to offer a “Wellness” system to improve the mood and physical condition of the vehicle’s occupants. This system is called ENERGIZING and offers up to six different settings, which modify the on-board ambience, the lighting, the climate control of all the car’s elements and even the music played through the multimedia system.

The technological load of the new S-Class is practically unbeatable
The lighting equipment also evolves, and it can now feature new headlights called Multibeam LED, with a new information processing system. Improvements include smoother and faster transitions between light and darkness, less glare and greater reach, which in the best case can exceed 600 metres.

The German model’s active suspension already stood out among its rivals thanks to the ROAD SURFACE SCAN system, capable of “reading” road imperfections before reaching them and adapting the dampers to achieve the greatest possible comfort. This system has evolved and now includes a cornering tilt function that improves driving dynamics without passengers feeling the slightest discomfort.

New engines

The S-Class update has been the moment chosen by Mercedes to introduce its new inline six-cylinder engines, which will gradually replace the current V6s. This new mechanical configuration, which Mercedes abandoned 15 years ago, will arrive with both diesel and petrol options. In addition to the engine, the supercharging system is also new, and depending on the version it will be handled by a turbocharger combined with an electric compressor.

For their part, the AMG S63 variants also change their configuration, replacing the 5.5 V8 used until now with the 4.0 twin-turbo V8 already used by almost the entire AMG range. With this engine, the AMG S63 4Matic+ will reach 612 CV, while still offering the V12 engine as an exotic alternative for the most demanding buyers.