THE ancestry of Mercedes-Benz S-Class limousine started with the model 220 (W 187) of 1951. But the S-Class designation was not officially introduced until 1972 with the 116 series.
Since its market launch, more than four million S-Class units have been delivered to customers, making it the world's best-selling luxury limousine.
In Malaysia, more than 18,000 S-Class limousines have been sold since its introduction in the late 1970s.
In February, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz S580e Plug-In Hybrid. It is locally-assembled at the carmaker's production facility in Pekan, Pahang.
UNDER THE HOOD
This writer was handed the key to an S580e Plug-In Hybrid for a weekend of fun drive recently.
The limousine boasts a 3.0-litre inline-six engine and 9G-Tronic transmission, enabling it to perform the century sprint in just 5.2 seconds.
Additionally, the S580e offers an estimated 100km of pure electric driving range, courtesy of its hybrid electric motor that is capable of generating an additional 110kW of power and 440Nm of torque, on top of the 270kW (367hp) and 500Nm already available from the internal combustion engine.
Cruising at highway speeds in the S580e gave a feeling of grace and poise. As the S-Class was engineered for Germany's autobahn, Malaysia's network of highways and federal roads were, thus, a walk in the park.
A big part of this stately ride was due to the limousine's plush and refined air suspension.
The limousine was equipped with numerous new or extended driving assistance systems, offering a more comfortable and safer drive. When danger threatens, the assistance systems should be able to respond to impending collisions as the situation demands. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display.
OUTSTANDING EXTERIOR
The S-Class has been designed as a classical saloon with perfect proportions, with a short front overhang, a long wheelbase and a balanced rear overhang.
The wide track and flush-mounted wheels with modern designs give the vehicle a muscular look. The so-called character lines have been greatly reduced along the sides.
Cleverly contoured surfaces with a sculptured look create special light effects. The front section impresses with its high-status radiator grille. The headlamps characterise the front aspect of the car.
The dynamic appearance of the car is continued at the rear. Highly detailed interior features and certain animated functions enable the rear lights to contribute to the impression of high quality.
NEXT-LEVEL MBUX
The company said no other innovation in recent years had so radically changed the operation of a Mercedes-Benz as much as the second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). This made the vehicle interior even more digital and intelligent.
Indeed, both the S-Class' hardware and software have made great strides, gained from 135 years of automotive engineering.
There are brilliant displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, making the control and comfort functions even easier. This includes a 12.3-inch cockpit display and a 12.8-inch OLED portrait-oriented media display.
The voice assistant is now available for each individual seat. With over-the-air updates and latest technology in artificial intelligence, the MBUX will continue to learn from its driver and passengers over time.
Overall, the S-Class designers have created a luxurious interior to offer the driver and other occupants more than just "a place for comfortable travel and relaxed working". It has evolved into a refuge between the home and workplace.
Among the highlights are the dashboard with new architecture, modern surface design and ergonomic display arrangement, the class-leading Burmester 3D surround sound system, heated front seats, Keyless-Go with seamless door handles, and hands-free access.
In summary, the S580e Plug-in Hybrid which is now priced at RM708,888, is a true embodiment of modern luxury, offering the greatest possible level of safety and comfort.