Mercedes-Benz has finally launched the much awaited S-Class facelift in India in the S350d and S450 trims. Interestingly, the new S-Class emerges as India’s first BS VI compliant vehicle wherein the new OM 656 motor is the first BS VI compliant diesel engine that is capable of running on BS IV fuel. The new engine has been introduced two years ahead of the regulation. Additionally, it gets a fresh set of upgrades both internally and externally.
Under the hood, the new S350d is powered by 2.9-litre OM 656 engine that generates 286bhp of power and a whopping 600Nm of torque. The S450 is powered by the 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that generates 367bhp of power and 500Nm of torque. Both the engines come mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Top speed for both the variants are limited to 250kmph. The petrol version is capable of sprinting from 0 -100kmph in just 5.1 seconds, while the diesel does the same in 6.0 seconds.
The new S-Class gets an advanced panoramic sliding sunroof with an obstruction sensor and the new three twin louvres and the vertical bars in high-gloss black highlights the new look. To give it a distinctive identity, the S-Class gets multi-beam LED head lamps with three striking light torches. To add to its sporty quotient, the vehicle sits on new 18-inch, five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. As for the rear, the vehicle gets LED tail lights with a distinctive crystal-look and coming home function. The rear bumper gets the integral tailpipe trim elements.
As for the interior, the new S-Class features electrically operated roller sunblind for the rear glass and side windows that enable the passengers to shield themselves from direct sunshine and unwanted attention. Moreover, the Air Balance package, offering a choice of six high-quality interior fragrances, allows the user to set fragrances based on personal preference. Additionally, the vehicle offers improved ionisation and optimised filtering of the incoming and recirculating air. The flagship sedan offers 64 ambient colour options to choose from and a thermotronic automatic climate control for the rear. The vehicle gets a large HD infotainment screen with built-in smartphone integration system and voice control that supports Apple CarPlay and Android media. The new S-Class comes with Burmester surround sound system with 13 speakers, a nine-channel DSP amplifier and a total output of 590W. To complete the exclusive element, the vehicle gets new car key in exclusive white high gloss and matte chrome.
Apart from standard safety equipments, Mercedes-Benz also offers radar-based driving assistance system which includes active distance assist Distronic, Active Steering Assist, Active Braking Assist and blind spot assist.