Mercedes-Benz has kick-started the Shanghai Auto Show with the official unveil of the much awaited 2018 Mercedes S-Class facelift. The luxury saloon has been due for a mid-cycle update since its launch in 2013 and gets subtle tweaks to the exterior and interior as part of the updates. While the cabin was already revealed in official images last month, the official unveil brings forth all details on the new S-Class facelift including the cosmetic changes, semi-autonomous driving systems as well as the new engine options.
In the larger context, the changes on the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class may not seem comprehensive but it does bring in a fresh appeal to the saloon. The German auto giant has retained the flowing lines from the current W222, but you get the new and wider grille that adds to the stately looks, and the front bumper gets slightly larger air intakes. The headlamps have also been revised and you now get Multibeam LED lamps, Ultra Range High Beam and road surface scan which detects bumps, as well as the new curve tilting function.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift gets semi-autonomous tech
Mercedes-Benz has also added a world's first on a series production car 'Energising' comfort feature on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift. The optional feature essentially links various comfort systems in the vehicle together, such as climate control, ambience lighting, massage and fragrancing functions.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift comes with 'Energising' that links the car's various comfort features
Under the hood, the new S-Class facelift is now offered in a host of engine options. The in-line six-cylinder has made a comeback on the automaker's flagship saloon, which a lot of Mercedes loyalists will find pleasing. The S 350d 4MATIC now comes with a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder diesel tuned for 284 bhp and 600 Nm of torque, while the S 400d 4MATIC uses the same unit to produce 336 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. Then, there is the new S 560 that replaces the S 550 in the model's line-up and gets a 4-litre V8 petrol tuned for 464 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. For the Affalterbach fans, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG S63 4MATIC gets the same V8, albeit belting out 600 bhp and rated torque of 900 Nm.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift comes with cosmetic updates and new engine options
The new S-Class facelift also packs in a host of semi-autonomous driving technologies including Intelligent Drive. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist that will assist the driver in keeping a safe distance, while the vehicle speed will also be automatically adjusted around corners. There is also the Active Emergency Stop Assist and improved Active Lane Change Assist for additional driver aid.
Sales of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift will commence in July this year across Europe, while the India launch is also scheduled for this year and is expected to arrive around the festive season. Like the current model, the new S-Class will also be locally assembled at the Mercedes plant in Chakan, Pune, but do expect to see a marginal hike in prices. We will be driving the new S-Class facelift soon, so make sure to watch out for our review.
