2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Shows Off New Looks, Engines and Tech

For 2018, the Mercedes S-Class Sedan is undergoing a slight transformation, and recently, the automaker unveiled this updated range-topping sedan.

Visually, the changes are small but noticeable. Up front, the non-AMG 2018 S-Class models will share a three twin-louver grille with high-gloss black vertical stripes. All versions of the 2018 S-Class will get new three-LED accent lighting, revised headlights with Ultra Wide Beam technology, and a new front bumper with more pronounced intakes. Rounding Maybach model’s changes Maybach model’s front end will be additional chrome trim and a new Maybach emblem between the grille louvers.

Around back, the 2018 S-Class sedan has new LED taillights and a reworked rear bumper with integrated tailpipe trim.

2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

Inside, the new S-Class will feature a pair of high-resolution 12.3-inch displays under one shared piece of glass. One of these screens shows the digital instrumentation with three settings: classic, sport, and progressive. The 12.3-inch central screen shows the infotainment system and other items. Also new are the Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel, which allow the driver to control the infotainment system through swiping motions, and wireless charging.

As expected, interior materials are about as good as they get. For 2018, the S-Class gets two new natural grain ash trim options. There are also three new interior color combinations — Silk Beige/Deep-Sea Blue, Magma Grey/Espresso Brown and Mahogany/Silk Beige — that go along well with the 64-color ambient-lighting system.

A little odd but nonetheless new is the optional Energizing Comfort system, which includes six settings that control the climate-control and fragrance system, seats, center console heating, and lighting and musical atmosphere to create a specific interior feeling. The six settings include freshness, warmth, vitality, joy, comfort, and training.

Outside of the AMG models, the S-Class will come in two models: S450 and S560. The S450 will come in rear- and all-wheel drive paired with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 that produces 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The S560 and Mercedes-Maybach S560 4MATIC will use a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 with 463 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.

2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

The final big piece to the new S-Class’ puzzle is another move toward autonomous driving. This new range-topping sedan will feature new Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Active Steering that keeps a more consistent gap between you and the car ahead, even in corners. Also improved is the Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. Finally, the camera and radar system are enhanced, giving the map and navigation system a better look at the surrounding traffic.

Pricing and the release date of the new S-Class are not available yet, but stay tuned for updates.