since 1976
since 1976
MERCEDES-Benz lays claim to its flagship S-Class being the ‘Pinnacle of Excellence’ in its category and this is extended to the latest model that made its entry here. This is no empty boast as more than 4500 S-Class hybrid saloons were sold since it was launched in Malaysia some five years back.
And the new model is taking after the precedence set with more than half of the current stock of the new S-Class models already accounted for at the time of its launch. Yes, there would be no hybrid model for now, thanks to the uncertainty of the new Government’s policy on automotive direction in Malaysia for the immediate future.
That, however, is not stopping Mercedes-Benz Malaysia from being bullish with the latest S-Class. In addition to the volume model, the locally assembled S 450 L AMG Line, there are three imported models – Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupé, S 560 Cabriolet and Mercedes-Maybach S 560 - to pander the more adventurous and glamorous tastes. Understandably, the four models were presented as the new S-Class Family.
While the Mercedes-Maybach S 560 toes the current grille design trend in Europe with its vertical struts pattern (ditto the Coupé and Cabriolet model, which is the standard practice for the sportier models), the S 450 L carries the twin louvre unit that is more immediately recognised as the Mercedes ‘face’.
Perhaps the new distinctive look is better portrayed in the headlamps of the S 450 L and Maybach S 560; three LED (light emitting diode) stripes that hug the lamp curvature next to the grille serve strongly as a signature identity for the new S-Class. Just one glance and you know the latest S-Class is coming towards you.
S 450 L AMG Line
This model is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine from Mercedes-Benz new family of powertrains that are paired with the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. It develops 270kW (367hp) at 5500-6000rpm and 500Nm torque from 1800rpm to 4000rpm. Acceleration is reasonably brisk at 5.4 seconds from 0 to 100km/h.
Its ‘class-leading’ features include Distronic Plus proximity control, Airmatic suspension, Widescreen Cockpit with Comand Online Infotainment, a Burmester Surround Sound system and Multibeam LED system, among others. The Distronic Plus system now features Active Distance Control and Active Steering Assist.
Mercedes says the second item provides more comfortable support for the driver in keeping a safe distance and steer. What it does is adjusting the speed automatically ahead of bends or corners, junctions and roundabouts so that one could take these respective road conditions at safe speeds.
The Multibeam LED system enables ‘extremely quick and precise adjustment’ of the headlamps to current traffic conditions. The Ultra Range main beams produce the maximum light intensity permitted by law, which results in the brightness of the main beams remaining above the reference value of 1 lux over a distance of more than 650 metres.
This is just part of the ‘extremely extensive’ development work done on the new S-Class that boasts of 6500 new components. With its new features and functions, Mercedes sees the latest S-Class as a technological pioneer. That probably explains why the previous model was hailed as the best-selling luxury saloon in the world in 2016. Since 2013, more than 300,000 S-Class saloons were sold.
The S 450 L AMG Line retails for RM699,888 on the road without insurance. And if you prefer the designo paint option, the price goes up to RM705,888 for the more exclusive sheen of luxury.
Mercedes-Maybach S 560
Hailed as the Ultimate Luxury as the ‘Automobile for the Elite’, the Mercedes-Maybach S 560 lives up to the billing with a price starting from RM1.4 million. The price would vary depending on what you would personally wish to have in this opulent saloon.
The vertical struts of the nose grille play a part in its outright individuality, along with the optional two-tone paintwork and a selection of 20-inch alloy wheels that are exclusive to Maybach. Its ‘unrivalled craftsmanship’ includes the most exclusive materials such as the Maybach Exclusive black nappa leather upholstery with a choice of copper-, gold- or platinum-coloured topstitching and optional trim inserts that appear in ‘beautiful design’ flowing lines Magnolia wood.
Its refinement and majestic status is matched by the power options, the V-8 powered S 560 (which is introduced here) and the V12-powered S 650 for those who might prefer an even more exclusive appeal. The S 560 option featured at the launch has a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo that delivers 345kW (469hp) at 5250-5500rpm and 700Nm torque from 2000rpm to 4200rpm. This Mercedes-Maybach accelerates to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds.
Dimensionally, it is 5462mm long based on a wheelbase of 3365mm. That makes it 20mm longer than the long-wheelbase S-Class saloon by 20mm in both aspects. This, of course, benefits the rear passengers in lounging in the luxuriously appointed interior.
Other details adding to its exclusive status include Magic Body Control with curve inclination function, Road Surface Scan, Night View Assist Plus, Magic Sky Control (two-section panoramic sliding sunroof that changes from transparent to dark within seconds) and Thermotroninc (Air Pulsation) air flow.
Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupé
Mercedes sees this as the perfect driver’s car with its ‘brutal’ performance, superior dynamics and strong presence with signature AMG Panamericana grille with new Jet Wing design for the front apron and air intakes. Complementing its racy looks are the side skirts with three-dimensional inlays in high sheen chrome to give the Coupé a lower slung look and more tension in the flanks.
Needless to say, it has the power to fulfil its gung-ho outlook in the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo that is tuned to deliver even more punch; 450kW (612hp) at 5500-6000rpm and an obscene 900Nm torque from 2750rpm to 4500rpm. Try and catch the wind as it scoots from standstill to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.
The S 63 Coupé also comes well kitted with an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission (the first time that this model is being fitted with) that has extremely short shift times, ‘lightning’ reaction to paddle shift commands, double clutching functions and fast multiple downshifts. Boy, this should give you the Lewis Hamilton experience!
It also has a specially developed suspension system for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics with damping options of Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus, AMG Speed-Senstive Steering, AMG high-performance compound braking system, Race drive program, Race Start, controllable AMG Performance exhaust system, to name a few. That’s about the works and there are options too.
This Lewis Hamilton experience would cost you a pretty penny too. The Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupé could be yours for a cool RM1,461,605.60 on the road without insurance (subject to change with SST of course).
Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet
For the more flamboyant, the S 560 Cabriolet might just fit the bill with its delightful blend of contemporary luxury and classical appeal in topless motoring (weather permitting in the Malaysian context). Status details include Swarovski crystals nestled within the headlamps and floating OLED (organic light emitting diode) taillamps to add a touch of sophistication.
It is seen as a sensory experience that comes from the latest driving, safety and convenience technologies of the new S-Class limousine and the new Energising Comfort control, bringing together climate adjustment, lighting, music and the seats to measure up fully as the most indulgent member of the new S-Class family.
The Energising Comfort control is an optional item however. What it does is to systematically uses the functions of the climate control (including fragrancing) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage), panel heating as well as lighting and musical atmospheres to complement the driver’s mood and needs. By doing so, Mercedes says well-being and performance levels are enhanced.
Depending on equipment level, there are up to six programs available – Freshness, Warmth, Vitality, Joy, Comfort and Training. The last item has three modes – muscle relaxation, muscle activation and balance. The programs all run for three minutes.
Being the more casual option, the S 560 Cabriolet is more ‘gently’ powered with the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo that also powers the Maybach model. Thus you have almost the same power output – 345kW (469hp) at 5250-5500rpm and 700Nm from 2000rpm to 4000rpm. It is slightly slower than the Coupé in 0-100km/h at 4.6 seconds and it is cheaper too, relatively speaking, at RM1,310,662.21 on the road without insurance.
