Mercedes-Benz's premium full-size sedan, the S-Class, returns as the "new S-Class" after the most extensive update possible within a single generation. It is packed with cutting-edge technology while maximizing the S-Class' signature elegance.
This S-Class lineup consists of the V8-powered S 580 (3,982cc), the six-cylinder S 500, S 450, S 450d (diesel), and the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) S 580e (all 2,999cc). I test-drove these models in Hamburg, Germany.
◇ Smooth as if gliding… convenience and quietness secured
As the S-Class is synonymous with a "chauffeur-driven" vehicle, I started in the rear seat of the S 580 4MATIC long-wheelbase model. The seats wrap the body in top-grade leather. The cushion where the head rests was suitably plush yet soft. While it's hard to lie completely flat even with the backrest fully adjusted, the space was ample enough to satisfy.
Wireless and fast smartphone charging, refrigeration, and temperature-controlled cup holders are all housed in the center console, without feeling tacky.
The number of MBUX (intelligent infotainment system) remotes in the center console has increased to two, further maximizing convenience. To operate the 13.1-inch display on the front, you would normally have to lean forward, but the remotes eliminate that hassle for both rear seats. If you open the window while driving, you'll be startled by the outside noise you couldn't hear inside.
The rear-seat ride quality was "worthy of its reputation." Rather than rolling, it felt like gliding, with superb comfort. Road texture was barely perceptible, and even on Europe's characteristically bumpy cobblestones, the car only swayed gently.
The brakes are exceptionally smooth, too. If you're focused on something else, you might not even notice the car coming to a stop. There was no unpleasant jolt even at the final moment of a full stop. It was unfortunate, however, that the newly added heated seat belt feature is applied only to the front seats.
◇ From V8 gasoline to inline-six diesel… choose your powertrain to taste
So how is the new S-Class to drive yourself? The common impression across all powertrains was, unsurprisingly, "extreme smoothness."
It feels different from startup. The 17kW integrated starter-generator (ISG) spins the engine very quickly and smoothly, enabling a quiet start with no body-shaking vibrations. Even without paying meticulous attention to pedal finesse, the car started and stopped cleanly, and it self-managed clumsy driver inputs. I drove for more than two hours without a break and felt almost no fatigue.
All versions of the new S-Class, except the plug-in hybrid (PHEV), feature a 48V mild-hybrid system.
Among them, the S 580 is the only V8 model and delivered evenly strong power across the entire rpm range. On an unrestricted-speed autobahn, with the drive mode set to Sport and the accelerator pressed deep, it quickly surpassed 200 kph, befitting a model that produces up to 537 horsepower. Some cars briefly catch their breath after passing a certain speed, but the S 580 surged ahead without hesitation.
The S 500 with a six-cylinder engine sounded louder than the S 580. On this point, Michael Schulz, Mercedes' combustion engine lead, said, "Even at the same 100 kph, the S 500 requires higher rpm than the S 580," adding, "Because it needs to produce more power, the engine sounds louder." The S 500 produces up to 449 horsepower. Its maximum torque, which dictates instantaneous acceleration, is a lower 600 Nm compared with the S 580's 750 Nm, but it is more than sufficient for daily driving.
Even with the same six cylinders, the diesel-equipped S 450d felt distinctly different to drive. Compared with the gasoline S 580 or S 500, there was a compressed springiness at the end of the pedal. Because diesel engines respond more slowly than gasoline engines, the power feels concentrated before it's released. Engine noise under acceleration is modest, but louder than in the S 580 or S 500, which actually made it more engaging to drive. It delivers a maximum output of 381 horsepower and peak torque of 560 Nm. It suits those who seek both premium feel and efficiency.
Although its Korea launch is undecided, I also tested the PHEV model, the S 580e. This model uses a six-cylinder engine, but the addition of an electric motor producing 120 kW gives it V8-like power, hence the "580" designation. In fact, output has increased by up to 55 kW over the previous generation.
Because the engine is so quiet, there is almost no difference in driving feel compared with the electric motor. In hybrid mode, when you pick up speed, the engine and motor work together to deliver more stable and immediate responses. There is also an electric mode that allows driving on the motor alone.
◇ Automated parking and driving assistance are stable
Another notable feature in the new S-Class is automated parking. When I entered the parking lot and initiated parking, the center screen displayed a view to select the desired space. After designating a spot and taking hands off the steering wheel, the parking was completed in under a minute.
The MB.Drive Assist feature that supports autonomous driving was also stable. When activated and a speed limit set, a green horizontal line aligned with the rear wheels of the car ahead appears on the head-up display. It intuitively indicates that the system is detecting obstacles ahead and maintaining a safe following distance.
Speed limits varied by highway section, and if the driver-set speed was excessively fast, the car adjusted its top speed to match each road's rules. It changed lanes safely when the turn signal was engaged, and the related buttons on the steering wheel were easy to operate. Taking hands off the steering wheel was allowed for about 40 seconds.