Of all the recent Mercedes-Benz styling exercises in the sedan segment, I definitely like the S-Class the most. The current generation arrived in 2007, and for 2010 it’s undergone some minor nose and tail revision that include the addition of LCD lighting and the integration of tail pipes into the rear fascia.
Economy is the big news for 2010
As much as I admire the big Benz for its clean yet dramatic lines, it’s the addition of a hybrid in the S-Class lineup that draws my attention. Here we have a full-size prestige vehicle that accompanies its cachet and stature with impressive economy and a pinch of green.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the S400 Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient large luxury sedan in the world. I’m not going to comment on the veracity of such an assertion other than to say that after my week behind the wheel of the German hybrid, I’m unopposed.
In “real world” city driving, I was averaging approximately 11-12L/100km. On the highway, that figure dropped to 9.6L/100km. These ratings were based on the vehicle’s onboard computer data.
I have no doubt that a refined right foot combined with a penchant for frugality would produce superior readings. The S400 is rated at 11.0L/100km city and 7.7L/100km highway, so really my results were not that far off, especially in the city where I equaled—or at times even exceeded—the official numbers.
Merc hybrid is of the “mild” variety
The S400 isn’t one of those hybrids that can drive on electric power alone, such as many of the newer versions from manufacturers including Ford and Toyota. At slower speeds, these examples can propel themselves without the combustion of fossil fuel—that is, until the battery depletes or greater performance is called upon.
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| Of all the recent Mercedes-Benz styling exercises in the sedan segment, I definitely like the S-Class the most. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
Economy is the big news for 2010
As much as I admire the big Benz for its clean yet dramatic lines, it’s the addition of a hybrid in the S-Class lineup that draws my attention. Here we have a full-size prestige vehicle that accompanies its cachet and stature with impressive economy and a pinch of green.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the S400 Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient large luxury sedan in the world. I’m not going to comment on the veracity of such an assertion other than to say that after my week behind the wheel of the German hybrid, I’m unopposed.
In “real world” city driving, I was averaging approximately 11-12L/100km. On the highway, that figure dropped to 9.6L/100km. These ratings were based on the vehicle’s onboard computer data.
I have no doubt that a refined right foot combined with a penchant for frugality would produce superior readings. The S400 is rated at 11.0L/100km city and 7.7L/100km highway, so really my results were not that far off, especially in the city where I equaled—or at times even exceeded—the official numbers.
Merc hybrid is of the “mild” variety
The S400 isn’t one of those hybrids that can drive on electric power alone, such as many of the newer versions from manufacturers including Ford and Toyota. At slower speeds, these examples can propel themselves without the combustion of fossil fuel—that is, until the battery depletes or greater performance is called upon.
 |
| The S400 is rated at 11.0L/100km city and 7.7L/100km highway. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |