Mercedes Benz India has finally brought in its tech-laden S-Class, updating the model with quite a few features and new engine choices. The 2018 Mercedes S-Class is available in two variants, the S450 petrol, priced at Rs 1.37 crore and the S350 diesel priced at Rs 1.33 crore.
Mercedes claims it is the first BSVI emission-standard car on sale in India, ahead of the 2020 deadline. It also says that the car can run on BSIV grade fuel which is currently in use in India.
The S350 diesel model uses a new 2.9 litre six-cylinder inline engine that puts out 286 bhp of power and 600 Nm of torque with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It can go from 0-100 kmph in about six seconds and hit a top speed of 250 kmph.
The S450 petrol models has a 3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that puts out 367 bhp of power and 500 Nm of torque. It also uses a 9-speed automatic transmission and can go from 0-100 kmph in 5.1 seconds.
What’s interesting is that Mercedes has finally managed to bring in its radar-guided technology on the S-Class, something it could not earlier, because of radar-spectrum limitations from the Indian government.
The S-Class now features radar-guided adaptive cruise control, that is active up to 210 kmph. It also has pedestrian-sensing technology that can automatically apply the brakes if the driver is not paying attention. It can also make mild steering inputs in cruise control mode. While this technology is not new in India any more, since many other cars have it, Mercedes had this on its cars in Europe earlier, but could not bring it in due to government radar spectrum limitations.
Besides that, Mercedes has added a new panoramic sunroof, reclining rear seats with massage function, electronic fragrance control, Bluetooth individual infotainment screens for rear passengers and a wireless charging tray in the centre armrest. It gets adaptive air suspension all around.
The full LCD twin-screen display continues with more settings and it has a 64 colour ambient lighting system too. Strangely, the boot does not get an electronic release or close function though – perhaps because that’s left to the chauffeur to do. Customers of the S-Class are likely to be chauffeur driven. It’s the most luxurious car that well-heeled Mercedes loyalists can upgrade to, within the brand, unless they want a Maybach.
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