Mercedes-Benz stepped into the future of luxury motoring with the 2016 S550 Plug-In Hybrid, a vehicle that promised to blend the opulence of the S-Class with cutting-edge hybrid technology. Arriving in the US market in Spring 2016, this sedan was not just about reducing emissions; it was about enhancing the driving experience while treading lighter on the environment. Priced as a premium offering, the S550 Plug-In Hybrid signaled Mercedes’ commitment to electrification, paving the way for future hybrid models in their lineup, including C-Class sedans and ML-Class crossovers.
The heart of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 Plug-In Hybrid is its sophisticated powertrain. It combines a gasoline V-6 engine with an electric motor seamlessly integrated within a modified seven-speed automatic transmission.
The electric motor itself is a powerhouse, capable of producing 85 kilowatts (114 horsepower) at peak. This power is drawn from an 8.7-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack discreetly located in the trunk, with 6.4 kWh being usable capacity. When working in concert, the combined powertrain delivers an impressive 325 kW (436 hp), allowing this luxury sedan to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in a brisk 5.2 seconds.
Driving the S550 Plug-In Hybrid reveals that Mercedes-Benz successfully maintained the core characteristics of the S-Class. The transitions between electric and gasoline power are remarkably smooth and almost imperceptible, a significant improvement over earlier Mercedes hybrids. The seamless power delivery ensures that the driving experience remains luxurious and undisturbed.
Exploring the Driving Dynamics: Four Modes for Every Journey
One unique aspect for electric vehicle (EV) drivers is experiencing gear shifts while in electric mode. However, these shifts are engineered to be incredibly subtle, requiring focused attention to even notice them. The S550 Plug-In Hybrid offers four distinct driving modes to cater to different driving preferences and situations:
- E (Electric-then-Hybrid): This is the default mode, prioritizing electric driving and seamlessly transitioning to hybrid operation when needed.
- E+ (Ultra-Energy-Saving): Designed for maximum efficiency, this mode optimizes energy consumption. While performance is slightly reduced, it remains adequate for typical driving, unlike some less refined energy-saving modes in other vehicles.
- E-Save: This mode allows drivers to conserve battery charge for later use, effectively operating as a conventional hybrid even with battery capacity available. This is particularly useful for city driving after highway stretches.
- Sport: Unleashing the full potential of the powertrain, Sport mode keeps the gasoline engine engaged continuously, with the electric motor providing an additional power boost during acceleration. This mode transforms the serene sedan into a more responsive and dynamic machine.
The intelligent integration extends to paddle shifters, which, when used for immediate power demands, will also engage the gasoline engine, ensuring responsive performance when needed.
Electric Range and Real-World Performance
During test drives covering diverse road conditions including highways, rural roads, and urban traffic, the S550 Plug-In Hybrid demonstrated impressive electric driving capabilities. It maintained electric mode for a significant portion of the journey, with an electric-only top speed of 70 mph (110 km/h).
The electric range observed in testing was between 15 to 18 miles. It’s important to note that official EPA ratings might differ, as European testing cycles often yield more optimistic range figures compared to North American standards.
Even at higher speeds, such as 93 mph (150 km/h), the S550 Plug-In Hybrid exhibited the composed and quiet ride expected of a luxury German sedan. In hybrid mode, passengers in the rear would experience a ride quality virtually indistinguishable from a standard S-Class, highlighting the refinement of the hybrid system.
City driving in electric mode is straightforward, requiring only a moderate accelerator input, unlike some hybrids that demand overly cautious throttle management to stay in EV mode.
Competition and the Future of Mercedes-Benz Hybrids
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 Plug-In Hybrid entered a competitive segment, with rivals like the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid already on the market. The Tesla Model S, while sportier, also competes within the same demographic of affluent buyers seeking advanced automotive technology.
However, the S550 Plug-In Hybrid’s significance lies in its role as a pioneer. It introduced a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain that Mercedes-Benz planned to expand across its model range, bringing this technology to more accessible vehicles in the future. This model was a clear indication of Mercedes-Benz’s long-term vision for integrating hybrid technology into their luxury vehicle offerings.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 Plug-In Hybrid successfully merged the iconic luxury of the S-Class with the efficiency and innovation of plug-in hybrid technology. It delivered a refined driving experience with seamless transitions between power sources, multiple driving modes for varied conditions, and a usable electric range. As the first of many plug-in hybrids from Mercedes-Benz, the S550 set a high benchmark for luxury automakers venturing into electrification.
