The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been synonymous with automotive excellence, and the newly updated 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan continues this legacy, pushing the boundaries of luxury, technology, and performance. Unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, this flagship model showcases extensive innovations, reaffirming its position as the undisputed leader in the premium segment. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive refinement, the 2018 S-Class delivers an unparalleled experience.
At the heart of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lies an enhanced suite of Intelligent Drive features, propelling it even further down the path of autonomous driving. Mercedes-Benz has elevated driver assistance to new heights, making journeys safer and more comfortable than ever before. Complementing these advancements are a new generation of engines, promising improved efficiency and power. Inside, the cabin sets new benchmarks for comfort and wellness, featuring a breathtaking new generation of dual 12.3″ high-resolution displays, seamlessly integrated under a single bonded glass panel. New trim options and upholstery offerings further enhance the bespoke luxury experience that defines the 2018 S-Class.
Intelligent Drive: Stepping Closer to Autonomous Driving
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class takes a significant leap towards the future of driving with its upgraded Intelligent Drive system. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now work in even greater harmony, providing enhanced support to drivers in maintaining a safe distance and staying confidently within their lane. A notable improvement is the system’s ability to proactively adjust speed when approaching curves or junctions, anticipating driving conditions for a smoother, more relaxed journey.
Further solidifying its segment leadership, the 2018 S-Class boasts unique features such as the LED Intelligent Light System with Ultra Wide Beam, Road Surface Scan, and curve-tilting function. These innovations work together to enhance safety, visibility, and ride comfort, making every drive in the 2018 S-Class a masterclass in automotive engineering.
ENERGIZING Comfort: A World-First in Wellness
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class introduces another world-first: ENERGIZING Comfort. This optional feature revolutionizes the in-car experience by intelligently linking various comfort systems within the vehicle. Climate control, ambient lighting, massage functions, and even fragrancing are orchestrated to create a personalized wellness setup tailored to the driver’s current mood and needs. This holistic approach to well-being elevates physical comfort and enhances driver performance, ensuring that every journey is as refreshing as it is luxurious in the 2018 S-Class.
Exterior Design: Accents of Modern Luxury
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class embodies modern luxury through its meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality materials. All models feature a redesigned grille, with six and eight-cylinder variants sporting three twin louvers and vertical strips finished in high-gloss black.
The Mercedes-Maybach 2018 S-Class further distinguishes itself with an upgraded front end featuring extensive chrome trim, emphasizing its elevated status within the S-Class family. The prestigious Maybach logo now graces the radiator grille, positioned elegantly between the louvers.
In conjunction with the new LED Intelligent Light System, the 2018 S-Class showcases three distinctive accents of light as an exclusive design element. The sporty front bumper has been redesigned with pronounced air intakes, adding to the vehicle’s dynamic presence. At the rear, new LED taillamps, reminiscent of exquisitely cut crystal jewels, create a signature lighting design, ensuring the 2018 S-Class is instantly recognizable both day and night.
All models of the 2018 S-Class are equipped with a redesigned lower bumper section incorporating integrated, visible tailpipe trim. These tailpipes are elegantly framed by a chrome trim element that spans the vehicle’s entire width. Two new 20″ alloy wheel designs are also available, allowing for further personalization.
Interior Refinement: Widescreen Cockpit and Premium Materials
Stepping inside the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reveals a cabin defined by sophistication and cutting-edge technology. The focal point is the widescreen cockpit, comprised of two new, high-resolution 12.3-inch displays. These displays are seamlessly integrated under a shared glass cover, creating a visually stunning and technologically advanced command center.
This widescreen cockpit houses a digital instrument cluster directly in the driver’s line of sight, along with a central display positioned above the center console. The fully digital nature of the cockpit allows drivers to personalize their experience with three distinct display styles: Classic, Sport, and Progressive. Drivers can also customize the information and views presented, ensuring that essential data is always readily accessible in the 2018 S-Class.
The 2018 S-Class introduces new Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel, responding to smartphone-like swiping motions. These intuitive controls allow drivers to manage the entire multimedia system without ever removing their hands from the steering wheel. Further control options include a touchpad with controller in the center console and advanced Voice Control, ensuring effortless interaction with the vehicle’s systems. Even the operation of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and standard cruise control is managed through steering wheel-mounted controls, emphasizing driver convenience and safety in the 2018 S-Class.
Authentic materials and meticulous attention to detail characterize the interior of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Two new natural grain ash wood trim options are available, adding warmth and natural beauty to the cabin. The refined look and feel, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz, is evident in every surface and detail.
The material and color palette has been carefully curated, offering a wide range of brown tones and three new upholstery color combinations: Silk Beige/Deep-Sea Blue, Magma Grey/Espresso Brown, and Mahogany/Silk Beige. These choices allow owners to create a truly personalized and luxurious interior environment within their 2018 S-Class.
Ambient Lighting: A Symphony of Colors
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continues to utilize energy-efficient, long-lasting LED technology for its interior lighting. The optionally extended ambient lighting system now offers an astounding 64 colors, providing a vast spectrum of individual settings. Lighting elements are integrated into the trim, central display, console stowage, door handles and pockets, and footwells, creating a truly immersive and customizable atmosphere. When equipped with the Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound System, the overhead control panel also features ambient lighting, further enhancing the sensory experience within the 2018 S-Class. KEYLESS-GO® also comes standard on all 2018 S-Class models, adding another layer of convenience.
Powertrain Innovation: New Engines for Power and Efficiency
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class model range introduces new engine options, including the S450 and S450 4MATIC, both powered by a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.
For even greater performance, the new 4.0L V8 engine debuts in the Mercedes-Benz S560 and Mercedes-Maybach S560 4MATIC, delivering 463 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. This advanced biturbo engine is among the most fuel-efficient V8s in the world, achieving approximately ten percent better fuel economy than its predecessor. Cylinder deactivation technology further enhances efficiency by seamlessly shutting off four cylinders under partial load. The turbochargers, positioned within the V of the cylinder banks, contribute to the engine’s compact design and responsiveness in the 2018 S-Class.
For those seeking ultimate performance, the Handcrafted-AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with cylinder deactivation replaces the previous 5.5L V8 biturbo in the Mercedes-AMG S63. Despite its smaller displacement, this powerhouse delivers an impressive 603 hp.
Advanced Driver Assistance: Enhanced Safety and Convenience
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents a significant advancement in driver assistance systems. Enhanced camera and radar systems provide an even more comprehensive view of the surrounding traffic, while for the first time, map and navigation data are utilized to anticipate driving behavior.
Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC leverages route information to proactively adjust vehicle speed in numerous situations. The “Assistance Graphics” menu in the instrument panel provides drivers with a clear overview of activated assistance functions and system responses. All functions are conveniently controlled from the steering wheel, ensuring ease of use and minimal distraction in the 2018 S-Class.
The new Driver Assistance Package includes a suite of advanced features:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: Utilizes extensive map and navigation data for route-based speed adjustments and includes Active Speed Limit Assist.
- Active Steering Assist: Significantly improved performance across its operating range, offering enhanced lane-keeping assistance.
- Active Lane Change Assist: Lane changes are initiated with a simple tap of the indicator stalk and executed within ten seconds, provided sensors detect no hazards.
- Active Emergency Stop Assist: Safely brings the vehicle to a stop if the system detects sustained driver unresponsiveness while Active Steering Assist is engaged.
- Traffic Sign Assist: Displays posted speed limits using image recognition and navigation data, providing visual and audible warnings if speed limits are exceeded.
Ride Quality: MAGIC BODY CONTROL and CURVE Function
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class further refines its legendary ride quality. Road Surface Scan, which debuted in the previous S-Class, is now even more advanced, detecting bumps ahead with greater precision, even in low light and at higher speeds. The Active Body Control suspension responds proactively to these road imperfections, delivering an incredibly smooth and composed ride.
A new comfort enhancement for the 2018 S-Class sedan is the CURVE function. Previously available only on the S-Class Coupe, this innovative feature allows the vehicle to lean into curves by up to 2.65 degrees, minimizing centrifugal forces felt by passengers and further enhancing ride comfort.
Lighting Innovation: LED Intelligent Light System with Ultra Wide Beam
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continues its pioneering role in automotive lighting. The LED Intelligent Light System is now optionally available with advanced LED headlamps featuring Ultra Wide Beam high beams. Ultra Wide Beam technology significantly increases the width of the high beam light distribution, providing maximum illumination of the road and surrounding areas. This advanced system enhances visibility and safety, building upon the already exceptional performance of the LED Intelligent Light System. Adaptive Highbeam Assist is also integrated, allowing drivers to utilize main beams continuously without dazzling other road users, intelligently adjusting light distribution to avoid glare.
Connectivity and Convenience: Wireless Charging and Concierge Service
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features an updated headunit generation that expands telephone options and connectivity. Near Field Communication (NFC) enables wireless charging for compatible smartphones, utilizing the Qi wireless charging standard. The charging pad is seamlessly integrated into the front center console stowage compartment.
The optional Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound System, boasting an impressive 1520 watts of output, has been further enhanced with additional speakers, creating an even more immersive audio experience in the 2018 S-Class.
The mbrace® Concierge service provides 2018 S-Class owners with a suite of personalized services, accessible via the i-button in the vehicle. From restaurant reservations to information retrieval and route guidance, the concierge service offers unparalleled convenience and support.
Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65: Performance Redefined
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65 sedans receive significant updates, further sharpening their driving dynamics and visual appeal.
The Mercedes-AMG S63 features a new Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with cylinder deactivation, replacing the previous 5.5L V8 biturbo. Despite the reduced displacement, the new engine delivers an increased output of 603 hp and achieves 0-60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission and fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system further enhance performance and traction in the 2018 AMG S63.
The range-topping Mercedes-AMG S65 retains its Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, producing 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Both AMG models benefit from visual updates, including the new LED Intelligent Light System and redesigned bumpers, underscoring their exclusive and high-performance nature within the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup.
AMG Engine Technology: Power and Efficiency in Harmony
The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the 2018 AMG S63 utilizes advanced twin-turbo forced induction with “hot inner V” turbocharger placement. This configuration results in a compact engine design, immediate turbocharger response, and reduced emissions. Twin-scroll turbochargers further optimize cylinder charge, contributing to increased power and torque, and exceptional throttle response.
The AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system in the 2018 AMG S63 maximizes efficiency by deactivating cylinders under partial load. This system seamlessly transitions between four and eight-cylinder operation, optimizing fuel consumption without compromising performance.
AMG Transmissions: Precision and Speed
The 2018 AMG S63 debuts the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission, characterized by incredibly short shift times, rapid multiple downshifts, and a rev-matching function. A wet start-off clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, enhancing responsiveness and saving weight.
The 2018 AMG S65 utilizes the proven AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, delivering tailored dynamics and high variability. Both transmissions offer rapid and precise gear changes, whether in automatic mode or manually controlled via steering wheel paddle shifters.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive: Optimal Traction
The 2018 AMG S63 features the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system as standard. This intelligent system provides optimal traction by continuously varying torque distribution between the front and rear axles. The system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, ensuring maximum grip and handling stability in all driving conditions.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT: Tailoring the Driving Experience
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes allow drivers to fine-tune the characteristics of the 2018 AMG S63 and S65. “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual” modes adjust engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, steering feel, ESP®, and all-wheel-drive system (in the S63). The AMG S65 also includes a “Curve” mode, which activates the curve-tilting function of the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension for enhanced cornering comfort.
AMG Suspension: Precision Handling and Refined Comfort
The 2018 AMG S63 is equipped with AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC®, offering selectable “Comfort” and “Sport” damping modes. Specially developed front axle kinematics and a more rigid rear axle subframe enhance agility and handling precision.
The 2018 AMG S65 features AMG Sport Suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL with Road Surface Scan and curve-tilting function. This advanced suspension system proactively adjusts to road conditions, delivering exceptional ride comfort and handling dynamics.
AMG Exterior and Interior Design: Expressive and Luxurious
The 2018 AMG S63 and S65 models are visually distinguished by their redesigned front bumpers with a jet wing design, LED Intelligent Light System, and model-specific AMG alloy wheels. The interiors feature AMG sports seats, exclusive nappa leather upholstery, AMG Performance steering wheels, and a 12.3″ widescreen cockpit with AMG-specific displays.
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and its AMG variants represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury. With its advanced technology, unparalleled comfort, and breathtaking performance, the 2018 S-Class sets a new standard for the premium sedan segment, offering an driving experience that is truly in a class of its own.
