Car of the future

T he Mercedes-Benz S-Class needs no introduction. Be that as it may, the German luxury carmaker unveiled the 2018 version of its hugely popular S-Class amidst much fanfare, pegging its launch on the luxury industry’s current favourite topic — responsible luxury. The new S-Class is India’s first BS VI compliant made-for-India vehicle.

“While designing the 2018 version of the S-Class, we looked at evolving consumer trends. One of the biggest talking points with luxury cars these days is the environment and we have kept that foremost in our mind while designing this car. We were able to incorporate some significant changes in the new model, with the engine being the most significant and relevant one. With this new engine, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the first car in India to meet the BS VI emission standards,” says Michael Jopp, vice-president, Mercedez-Benz India. This is the first company to bring the BS VI standard to India two whole years before the April 2020 deadline. This engine is also compatible with the BS IV fuel and ensures significantly lesser emission.

On the occasion of the launch of the new S-Class, touted by many seasoned and aspiring drivers as the ultimate luxury, the brand is highly optimistic about its niche offering to the Indian market. “Since we launched it 17 years ago, we’ve been able to sell an overwhelming number of cars. While comfort is the most important feature in this S-Class, we also focus on enhanced safety features and other new elements such as autonomous driving assistance. There is a certain pride and status that goes with being the owner of an S-Class,” Jopp adds.

System update

In addition to the new BS VI compliant version — S 350 d diesel — there is also a petrol version, the S 450. The S 350 d is the most powerful diesel engine manufactured by the German carmaker. The new S-Class is characterised by a few new design cues. A case in point is the slick radiator trim, which features three sets of twin-louvres and vertical bars. In addition, the bumper has been significantly lowered, enhanced with sporty air intakes, complemented by the newly-designed multi-beam LED headlights. The tail end of the vehicle also sees modifications such as LED tail lights and tailpipe trim elements that are integrated into the rear bumper.

The new diesel engine found in the S 350 d has a powerful six-cylinder motor, which packs in a punch of 210 kW. This new engine consumes only up to six percent less fuel, despite significant improvements. The V6 petrol engine, however, delivers a brilliant 270 kW of power thanks to its turbocharging mechanism.

Driving: Now and then

“Autonomous driving is a global trend that is increasing in popularity. The Mercedes S-Class is also introduced autonomous driving assistance in the Indian market. At the core of the S-Class autonomous features is a radar-driven system, which ensures increased safety and reduces the risk of collisions. The innovative Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC mechanism automatically controls and maintains the distance between the vehicle in front, and applies brakes by itself if cars come too close. Similarly, Active Steering Assist ensures that the car is driven in the centre of its lane, letting out a vibrating indicator on the steering wheel if you veer off-centre. The S-Class also features an Active Braking Assist, which is an emergency self-braking mechanism, reducing the risk of collisions. The intelligent Blind Spot assist prevents collision with another vehicle, while changing lanes, possibly hidden by a blind spot.

Taking the backseat

Without discounting or undermining the driving experience, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is best enjoyed in the backseat. The backseat is overwhelmingly roomy and comes fitted with a range of luxurious bells and whistles, to enhance the passenger experience. The bucket seats recline generously and are controlled with side panels. Passengers in the back seat (in addition to those in the front seat) can enjoy personalised climate control for each. As if that were not enough, you can even personalise the fragrance that wafts through your car, from a choice of six interior fragrances. You can then choose to illuminate your car in 64 different colours thanks to the ambient lighting system.

Individual touchscreens for both backseat passengers allow you to control different settings, ranging from music and lighting, to temperature.

The car features a slick panoramic sliding sunroof and electric-controlled sunblinds on the windows, to protect the passengers from harsh sunlight. In terms of entertainment, the S-Class comes packed with a surround-sound system, branded Burmester, featuring 13 speakers and a maximum output of 590 W. The entertainment system allows you to integrate both iPhones (through Apple CarPlay) and Android phones. The highlight, however, are the two wireless charging panels on the front and rear centre armrests. Individual touchscreens for both backseat passengers allow you to control different settings, ranging from music and lighting, to temperature.

Riaan Jacob George is a Mumbai-based journalist

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