New Merc S-class Revealed

Safer, greener and more powerful S-class unveiled

By George B / Thursday, 9 April 2009 / Loading comments

Mercedes has unveiled a new facelifted S-class at the New York motor show.

The new executive saloon gets a few minor changes to the front end, with new headlights, more aerodynamic door mirrors and a more pronounced radiator grille. The new S will also get the now obligatory LED running lights in the front bumper.

At the rear the most noticeable changes are to the tail-lights, which now get a cluster of 52 LED lights that, according to Mercedes, “form an unmistakable light signature”. The exhausts have also been integrated into the rear bumper, giving the rear of the new S-class a cleaner look.

Like the new E-class, the S-class will be filled with the latest in Mercedes safety technology including dimming headlights that automatically flick from dips to full beams. There's also a night view camera system to help detect pedestrians or wildlife that might be in the road and an advanced lane assist function. Completing the S-class's safety features is the newly developed drowsiness detection system that monitors over 70 different parameters, including steering patterns, to determine the driver’s level of alertness.

The range of available engines has also been updated, with five petrol units and one diesel option all promising lower emissions and better fuel consumption. The range-topping S600 model will get 510bhp from its twin turbo 5.5-litre unit, while the S63 and S65 AMG versions will deliver 518bhp and 604bhp respectively.

Mercedes will also add a hybrid model to the S-class range, but the S400 Hybrid, that was unveiled at the New York show will not go on sale in the UK.