Mercedes-Benz S-Class Range Grows With S 580 And S 680
Joining the acclaimed Mercedes-Benz S 450 4MATIC in the S-Class line-up is the long-wheelbase, V8-equipped S 580 L 4MATIC, plus an exclusive Maybach-badged saloon featuring a V12 and a further 180 mm added to the wheelbase for the benefit of rear-seat passengers.
Customers in the market for the coveted new Mercedes-Benz S-Class are set to be spoiled for choice with the arrival later in 2021 of two new variants that raise comfort, spaciousness, luxury and performance to new levels, even for such a storied model. The two new choices, including a range-topping variant by Mercedes-Maybach, will join the Mercedes-Benz S 450 and S 450 L 4MATIC, which launched in Australia in March 2021.
The new Mercedes-Benz S 580 L 4MATIC
The arrival of the long-wheelbase S 580 L 4MATIC model brings the welcome return of V8-power to the S-Class range, for the first time paired with mild-hybrid drive. The bi-turbo M 176 unit outputs an ample 370 kW and 700 Nm, backed up by an integrated second-generation starter-alternator and 48-volt onboard electrical system adding 15 kW and 200 Nm of boost for short intervals when required. Paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed auto and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive, it adds up to serene cruising ability with effortless performance on demand.
Available exclusively in the long-wheelbase configuration (adding 110 mm over the S 450 4MATIC model’s standard wheelbase), the S 580 L also lifts the level of luxurious appointments with standard equipment including Nappa leather upholstery, the MBUX Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (HUD) which projects virtual navigational directions onto the windscreen in the driver’s eyeline, and glass that reflects infrared and insulates against heat and noise for all windows. An Active Multi-Contour seat package is also fitted as standard, which includes adjustable air chambers in the front seats for fine-tuning of their position and support, plus a variety of massage programs.
All-new DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps are also standard, and allow completely new functions. Inside each unit is a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs. Light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors per headlamp, which can be individually switched on and off. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, and the projection range on full high-beam is 150 metres longer compared to MULTIBEAM LED.
Optionally, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL is a fully active suspension system that utilises the 48-volt electrical system. Using five multi-core processors, more than 20 sensors and a stereo camera, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL reacts proactively to each driving situation and the road surface to create a completely new driving experience. The control units analyse the driving situation 1000 times per second and adapt the suspension accordingly to create an innovative and unique synthesis of driving comfort, agility and driving precision.
Also prominent on the option list is a Burmester® high-end 4D surround sound system, delivering unmistakable sound and innovative features. A total of 31 speakers and output of 1750 watts includes a subwoofer and eight bass shakers (exciters) in the seats, the latter allowing passengers to feel the music – the fourth dimension of sound.
These features are added to the comprehensive specification inherited from the impressively specified S 450 including a 12.8-inch centre OLED touch-screen with a fingerprint scanner to switch between customised user profiles, three-dimensional (3D) driver’s display, power-assisted door closing, wireless smartphone integration and wireless charging for supported devices, a sliding glass panoramic sunroof, the Driving Assistance Package featuring Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and active assistants for stop-and-go traffic and lane changing, Traffic Sign Assist, Parking Package with Active Parking Assist and advanced 360° camera, multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather, the MBUX infotainment system including voice control, a Burmester® 3D sound system featuring 15 speakers and 710 watts, MBUX Interior Assistant, Ambient Lighting, dual-zone climate control, electronically adjustable and climatised (heated/cooled) front seats, and AIRMATIC adaptive suspension.
Features previously exclusive to the long-wheelbase S 450 L model also transition to the S 580 L, including innovative forward-facing airbags for rear-seat passengers and electrically adjustable rear seats including memory function.
The new Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC
“With the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, we are emphasising the progressive, modern approach of this exclusive product portfolio. Today’s customers have high expectations of their exclusivity and individuality, elegant design and first-class standard of finish, all based on the very latest technology.”
– Dirk Fetzer, head of Mercedes-Maybach product management
The Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC is set once again to assume its rightful place at the zenith of the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, bringing more power, even greater refinement, extra rear seat space and a host of luxurious appointments and distinctive styling cues that leave no doubt the new S 680 is one of the world’s most exclusive automotive experiences.
Revealed shortly before the 100th anniversary of Mercedes-Maybach vehicles, the new S 680 reinforces this premium nature firstly with effortless power from the M 279, bi-turbo V12 engine generating a deeply impressive 463 kW and 900 Nm. In conjunction with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed auto, 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and AIRMATIC adaptive suspension, an outstanding experience for driver and passengers alike is assured.
The bespoke body shell has a 180 mm longer wheelbase than even long-wheelbase S-Class variants, all of which further increases the legroom for rear-seat passengers. This helps to guarantee that second-row occupants travel in strictly first-class comfort, enjoying features including Rear Comfort Doors providing additional powered assistance, MBUX Interior Rear Assistant, high-pile floor mats and Exclusive Nappa leather in distinctive designo style throughout the cabin. Rear seat occupants also benefit for the first time from a new seatbelt feeder of the type typically used in coupés and convertibles, helping to reduce the effort required to buckle in. Rear entertainment installation including a centre-mounted tablet, plus a rear comfort seat pack, are also standard, as is the ENERGIZING Pack for both front and rear seats, the Burmester® high-end 4D surround sound system, and Adaptive Ambient Lighting (front/rear).
Front seat passengers enjoy a Warmth Comfort Pack including warmed seats, armrests and centre console, while the driver sits before a heated multifunction steering wheel beautifully crafted from polished woodgrain and Nappa leather. A TV tuner and DAB+ digital radio tuner are also standard. The interior is finished in standard high-gloss black poplar wood trim, with the centre console in crystal-look black.
Externally, the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC is distinguished by its unique grille featuring narrow vertical bars, and 20-inch 5-hole forged alloy wheels. Exclusive two-tone paint finishes with dividing line can be optionally specified, with a second colour applied by hand in a process that can take up to one week.
Rear-wheel steering, which can turn the rear wheels up to 10 degrees to significantly reduce the vehicle’s turning circle, is also standard (when optional 21-inch wheels are equipped, 4.5-degree rear-wheel steering can be added).
Pricing
The Mercedes-Benz S 580 L 4MATIC saloon is priced at $329,900 (MRLP) while the Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC saloon is priced at $565,800 (MRLP). Both models will be available to order in Q3, with first customer deliveries expected in Q4 of 2021.