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Mercedes-Benz S-Class Receives Extensive Mid-Cycle Update with Design, Technology, and Powertrain Enhancements

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class Unveils Comprehensive Mid-Cycle Update

Five years after the initial launch of the W223-series flagship sedan in 2020, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a comprehensive mid-cycle update for its S-Class model. This significant refresh impacts the vehicle's exterior, interior, technology, and powertrain options, including a new V8 engine and advanced digital features.

Over 50 percent of the vehicle's components have been updated, refined, or are newly developed, underscoring the extent of this refresh.

Exterior Design Updates

The updated S-Class showcases several distinctive exterior modifications designed to enhance its presence. The front grille has increased in size by 20 percent and is now illuminated, incorporating three-dimensional chrome stars. The hood ornament also offers an illumination option, adding to the vehicle's sophisticated appeal.

Headlights and taillights feature starry accents. The Digital Light headlights utilize micro-LED technology, providing a 40 percent larger high-resolution illumination field and an Ultra Range high-beam system with a reach of up to 600 meters. Newly designed tail-lights are adorned with three chrome-framed signature stars.

Customers can choose from updated wheel designs, including new 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels crafted with high-pressure casting technology. An optional AMG Line package further enhances the vehicle's sporty aesthetics with sportier bumpers, side skirts, and AMG wheels up to 21 inches.

Customization is significantly expanded through a new Manufaktur Made to Measure program, offering over 150 paint colors and more than 400 interior options. Illuminated door sills and emblem packages are also available.

Interior and Technology Enhancements

Inside, the cabin has been meticulously revamped, integrating advanced displays and improved ergonomics. It features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch infotainment system, and a 12.3-inch front passenger display. The dashboard and center console now include a dual wireless smartphone charger and illuminated cup holders. The multifunction steering wheel retains physical controls for essential functions such as Distronic and volume.

Circular air vents now offer digital control, allowing automatic adaptation to desired positions with eight storable settings, activated by a new virtual assistant. An advanced electric filter is integrated for improved cabin air quality.

The MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by AI, utilizes ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search, represented by a Mercedes star avatar.

The system also includes an enhanced Zero Layer interface and MBUX Surround Navigation based on Google Maps. The vehicle runs on the latest-generation Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which supports over-the-air software updates and underpins both MBUX infotainment and MB.DRIVE semi-autonomous driving systems.

For rear occupants, an upgraded entertainment system offers larger 13.1-inch displays with detachable remotes and integrated HD cameras. These cameras support business video conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Webex, as well as video streaming services like Disney+ and RIDEVU. Thermal comfort features include newly available heated front seat belts, offering temperatures up to 44°C. New trim options and Beech Brown upholstery are also offered. A Burmester 3D surround sound system is standard, with an optional 4D surround sound system featuring up to 39 speakers and Dolby Atmos technology.

The long-wheelbase model offers a luxurious 'business lounge' configuration. This setup includes sculpted seats, a full-length rear center console with concealed storage, wireless and fast-charging USB-C ports, a refrigerated compartment, temperature-controlled cupholders, and folding tables.

Powertrain Lineup

A diverse range of powertrains is available, with specific offerings varying by market. All models are paired with Mercedes' 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission and feature all-wheel drive.

Gasoline Engines

  • S 580 4Matic: This model features a new M177 Evo mild-hybrid, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system and a 17kW starter-generator. It produces 393-395 kW (530-534 hp) and 750 Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque, an increase from the previous model's 496 hp and 516 lb-ft. The engine notably features a flat-plane crank.
  • S 450: Equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine generating 280 kW (376 hp) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.
  • S 500: Utilizes a 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 330 kW (443 hp) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque.

Diesel Engines (Non-U.S. Markets)

  • 3.0-liter diesel options are available, producing 230 kW (309 hp) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft), or a more powerful version with 270 kW (362 hp) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft).

Plug-in Hybrid Variants

  • S 450 e: Combines a 3.0-liter inline-six with an electric motor and a 22 kWh battery pack for a total output of 320 kW (429 hp) and 680 Nm (501 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.7 seconds and offers an electric-only range of up to 118 km (73 miles) (WLTP).
  • S 580 e: Features a similar inline-six with an electric motor, achieving a combined output of 430 kW (577 hp) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.4 seconds, with a battery-only range of 103 km (64 miles).

Chassis and Driver Assistance

Rear axle steering is standard in the U.S. market, allowing up to 4.5 degrees of wheel turn. An optional 10-degree rear axle steering system further reduces the turning circle to an impressive 10.8 meters (35.4 feet). Air suspension is included as standard, with E-Active Body Control available as an option for enhanced ride comfort and handling.

Updated MB.DRIVE driving and parking assistance systems incorporate extended sensor technology and a new computer architecture. The Parking Assist function can detect angled parking spaces and assist in exiting a parking space, even after a manual maneuver, and is designed to park faster.

Market Availability

In the United States, the S 500, S 580, and S 580 e models will be offered initially. Updated AMG variants are anticipated in the future. These refreshed models are expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms during the second half of the year. Pricing details will be announced closer to the launch.