The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan marked a significant leap forward in automotive technology and luxury. Unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, this model year introduced a suite of innovations, reinforcing the S-Class’s position as a leader in the premium segment. For those seeking a blend of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort, and sophisticated performance in a Mercedes 2018 vehicle, the S-Class delivered on all fronts.
One of the most notable advancements in the Mercedes 2018 S-Class was the enhanced Intelligent Drive system. Taking a substantial stride towards autonomous driving, features like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist offered drivers unprecedented support. These systems not only maintained safe distances but also provided more intuitive steering assistance, even automatically adjusting speed for upcoming curves and junctions. This focus on driver assistance technology is a key aspect for anyone exploring a Mercedes 2018 model, highlighting the brand’s commitment to safety and convenience.
Beyond autonomous driving advancements, the Mercedes 2018 S-Class boasted segment-leading features designed to elevate the driving experience. The LED Intelligent Light System with Ultra Wide Beam, Road Surface Scan, and curve-tilting function were unique additions, setting new benchmarks in vehicle technology. ENERGIZING Comfort, a world-first in series production, further exemplified Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to passenger well-being. This system intelligently linked climate control, ambient lighting, massage, and fragrance functions to create personalized wellness setups, adapting to the driver’s mood and enhancing comfort on every journey in a Mercedes 2018.
Ola Källenius, a Board Member at the time, emphasized the extensive development behind the Mercedes 2018 S-Class, stating its role as a “technological pioneer.” This model year indeed solidified the S-Class’s reputation as the best-selling luxury sedan globally, with over 300,000 units sold since 2013, proving its enduring appeal and market dominance as a Mercedes 2018 offering.
Exquisite Design and Craftsmanship of the 2018 Mercedes
The modern luxury of the Mercedes 2018 S-Class was immediately apparent in its meticulously crafted exterior and interior. Every model featured a redesigned grille, with six and eight-cylinder variants showcasing three twin louvers and high-gloss black vertical strips. The Mercedes-Maybach variant took luxury a step further with enhanced chrome trim and the distinguished Maybach logo, cementing its status within the Mercedes 2018 lineup.
The lighting design of the Mercedes 2018 was equally striking. Paired with the new LED Intelligent Light System, the S-Class introduced three distinctive light accents as a signature design element. Redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with new LED taillamps inspired by crystal jewels, added to the vehicle’s sophisticated aesthetic both day and night. New 20-inch alloy wheel options further enhanced the visual appeal of the Mercedes 2018 S-Class.
Inside the Mercedes 2018, a widescreen cockpit dominated the dashboard, featuring dual 12.3-inch high-resolution displays seamlessly integrated under a single glass panel. This digital cockpit allowed drivers to personalize their display with Classic, Sport, or Progressive styles, ensuring information was readily available and tailored to their preferences in their Mercedes 2018 vehicle.
Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel, responsive to smartphone-like swiping motions, offered intuitive control over the multimedia system without requiring drivers to take their hands off the wheel. This, alongside touchpad and voice control options, provided multiple user-friendly interfaces within the Mercedes 2018 S-Class.
Authentic materials, including new natural grain ash wood trims, underscored the Mercedes 2018 S-Class’s commitment to quality. The interior color palette was carefully curated, featuring a range of brown tones and new upholstery combinations like Silk Beige/Deep-Sea Blue, Magma Grey/Espresso Brown, and Mahogany/Silk Beige, allowing for personalization within the Mercedes 2018 cabin.
Ambient lighting with an expanded 64-color palette further enhanced the interior ambiance. This customizable lighting extended to trim elements, displays, storage areas, and footwells, creating a truly immersive and luxurious environment inside the Mercedes 2018 S-Class.
Wellness and Performance Innovations in the 2018 Mercedes S-Class
The Mercedes 2018 S-Class introduced the groundbreaking ENERGIZING Comfort system, a world-first feature designed to promote wellness while driving. This system synchronized various vehicle functions – climate control, seating, lighting, and music – to create six pre-set programs: Freshness, Warmth, Vitality, Joy, Comfort, and Training. Each program ran for ten minutes, visualized with color graphics and supported by curated music, enhancing the driving experience in a Mercedes 2018.
The powertrain of the Mercedes 2018 S-Class also saw significant advancements. New engine options included the S450 and S450 4MATIC with a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine, and the S560 and Mercedes-Maybach S560 4MATIC with a new 4.0L V8 biturbo engine. These new engines offered improved performance and fuel efficiency. AMG variants, the S63 and S65, received even more potent engines, with the S63 featuring a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with cylinder deactivation, and the S65 retaining its handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, solidifying the performance credentials of the Mercedes 2018 AMG models.
The Intelligent Drive system in the Mercedes 2018 S-Class was further enhanced with improved camera and radar systems and the integration of map and navigation data. This allowed for more proactive driver assistance features, such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC automatically adjusting speed based on route information. Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist were also significantly improved, enhancing the safety and convenience features in the Mercedes 2018.
Ride quality in the Mercedes 2018 was refined with an improved MAGIC BODY CONTROL system and the introduction of the CURVE function for the sedan model. Road Surface Scan was enhanced for better bump detection, and the CURVE function tilted the car into turns, maximizing passenger comfort.
The LED Intelligent Light System with Ultra Wide Beam provided exceptional long-distance vision, further enhancing safety for Mercedes 2018 drivers. The Ultra Wide Beam offered maximum road illumination, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist allowed for continuous high beam usage without dazzling other drivers.
Convenience features in the Mercedes 2018 included wireless smartphone charging and the Concierge Service. Wireless charging via the Qi standard was integrated into the center console, and the mbrace® Concierge service provided personalized assistance for restaurant reservations, information gathering, and route guidance.
Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65: 2018 Performance Redefined
The Mercedes 2018 AMG S63 and S65 models represented the pinnacle of performance luxury. The S63 received a new handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine, replacing the previous 5.5L V8, while increasing horsepower to 603 hp. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system further enhanced the S63’s performance, making it comparable to sports cars with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds.
The S65 Mercedes 2018 AMG model retained its handcrafted 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, delivering 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Both AMG models received visual updates to their exterior and interior, underscoring their exclusivity within the Mercedes 2018 S-Class range.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH at the time, highlighted the impressive power, torque, and performance of the Mercedes 2018 AMG models, emphasizing the S63’s advancements in driving dynamics and the S65’s continued role as the flagship S-Class model.
Key technical updates for the Mercedes 2018 AMG S63 included the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system for improved efficiency and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission for faster and more dynamic gear changes. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive provided optimal traction and handling in various driving conditions for the Mercedes 2018 S63.
The Mercedes 2018 AMG S65 continued with rear-wheel drive and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, tuned for the V12 engine’s high torque output. The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes allowed drivers to customize the driving experience of both Mercedes 2018 AMG models, with the S65 adding a “Curve” mode utilizing the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension for enhanced cornering comfort.
Both Mercedes 2018 AMG models featured distinctive exterior styling, including redesigned front bumpers with a jet wing design, LED Intelligent Light Systems, and model-specific alloy wheels. The interiors boasted AMG sports seats, nappa leather upholstery, and AMG Performance steering wheels, creating a luxurious and performance-oriented cabin within the Mercedes 2018 AMG S-Class.
For enthusiasts, the Mercedes 2018 AMG S63 offered the AMG TRACK PACE App, allowing drivers to record and analyze performance data on race tracks, further emphasizing the performance focus of the Mercedes 2018 AMG lineup.
In conclusion, the Mercedes 2018 S-Class, including its AMG variants, represented a pinnacle of automotive innovation, luxury, and performance. From its advanced driver assistance systems and wellness features to its powerful engines and exquisite design, the Mercedes 2018 S-Class set new standards in the luxury sedan segment and continues to be a sought-after model for those seeking the best in automotive engineering and sophistication.
