What makes a Mercedes a Mercedes? Other than the three-pointed star, the S-Class is the car that defines the prestige and aura of the make. The all-new redesigned S-Class finally brings some attitude to what was an otherwise unassuming shape. The lines are sharper and many will notice some Maybach in the mix.
The interior of the S-Class is as opulent as ever and roomier. Mercedes' answer to BMW I-Drive and Audi MMI systems is called Command Controller. Making sure not to be outdone by its major rivals, Mercedes has created their own not-so-user-friendly interface for vehicle controls.
Powering the new S-Class are a 388 hp 5.5L V8 for the S500 and a 517 hp twin-turbocharged V12 for those that love the smell of burnt rubber. Also available will be a 224 hp 3.2L V6 Bluetec diesel engine. All V8s will inherit a 7-speed automatic transmission whether or not it is mated to Mercedes 4-MATIC AWD system. The V12 retains the 5-speed auotbox.
An S65 AMG version will be launched later and will sport a reworked Maybach-sourced twin-turbocharged will put out 612 hp and 738 lb/ft of torque. Although weight is up by a few pounds, a 0-60 mph of less than 4.5 seconds should be possible. A lesser S63 AMG version will also be available, however it will make due with a normally aspirated 6.3L V8 which will develop 510 hp.
The interior of the S-Class is as opulent as ever and roomier. Mercedes' answer to BMW I-Drive and Audi MMI systems is called Command Controller. Making sure not to be outdone by its major rivals, Mercedes has created their own not-so-user-friendly interface for vehicle controls.
Powering the new S-Class are a 388 hp 5.5L V8 for the S500 and a 517 hp twin-turbocharged V12 for those that love the smell of burnt rubber. Also available will be a 224 hp 3.2L V6 Bluetec diesel engine. All V8s will inherit a 7-speed automatic transmission whether or not it is mated to Mercedes 4-MATIC AWD system. The V12 retains the 5-speed auotbox.
An S65 AMG version will be launched later and will sport a reworked Maybach-sourced twin-turbocharged will put out 612 hp and 738 lb/ft of torque. Although weight is up by a few pounds, a 0-60 mph of less than 4.5 seconds should be possible. A lesser S63 AMG version will also be available, however it will make due with a normally aspirated 6.3L V8 which will develop 510 hp.
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