The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan, a flagship of automotive excellence, debuted its newly updated model at the Shanghai Auto Show, showcasing extensive innovations and solidifying its position as a leader in the premium segment. The 2018 Benz S Class boasts an array of enhancements, most notably an extended suite of Intelligent Drive features pushing the boundaries of autonomous driving, and a new generation of powerful and efficient Mercedes-Benz engines. Renowned for its unparalleled comfort and wellness, the Benz S Class 2018 elevates interior luxury with a new generation of dual 12.3″ high-resolution displays integrated into a widescreen cockpit, along with fresh trim options and exquisite upholstery offerings.
This top-tier Mercedes-Benz sedan represents a significant leap towards the future of driving, taking Intelligent Drive to unprecedented levels. Features like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now offer even more sophisticated support, helping drivers maintain a safe distance and effortlessly stay within their lane. Furthermore, the intelligent system now anticipates curves and junctions, automatically adjusting speed for a smoother and safer driving experience in the 2018 Benz S Class.
Alt text: Front view of 2018 Benz S Class showcasing the updated grille with three twin louvers and vertical strips, flanked by LED Intelligent Light System headlights.
The Benz S Class 2018 distinguishes itself with unique features such as the advanced LED Intelligent Light System incorporating Ultra Wide Beam, Road Surface Scan for proactive bump detection, and a curve-tilting function, all designed to enhance driver and passenger comfort and safety.
Introducing a world-first in series production, ENERGIZING Comfort, an optional feature in the benz s class 2018, revolutionizes in-car wellness. This system intelligently links various comfort features, including climate control, ambient lighting, massage and fragrance functions, allowing occupants to personalize their environment for optimal well-being. Drivers and passengers can configure specific wellness setups to match their mood or needs, promoting physical comfort and enhancing performance on every journey in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, emphasized the extensive development behind the new model: “The development of the new S-Class was extremely extensive. With a whole series of new features and functions, the S-Class remains a technological pioneer.”
The Mercedes-Benz flagship maintained its global dominance in 2016 as the best-selling luxury sedan, with over 300,000 sedans sold since 2013, proving its enduring appeal and leadership in the luxury automotive market.
Exclusive Exterior Design Accents
Modern luxury in the 2018 Benz S Class is immediately apparent in the exceptional quality of materials and meticulous craftsmanship. All models feature a redesigned grille, with six and eight-cylinder engine variants sporting three twin louvers and vertical strips finished in high-gloss black.
Alt text: Close-up of the Mercedes-Maybach 2018 Benz S Class grille highlighting the extensive chrome trim and the new Maybach logo positioned between the louvers.
The Mercedes-Maybach iteration of the Benz S Class 2018 further emphasizes its elite status with an enhanced front end featuring extensive chrome trim and the distinguished Maybach logo positioned prominently within the radiator grille.
In conjunction with the new LED Intelligent Light System, the 2018 Benz S Class showcases three distinctive light accents as an exclusive design signature, along with a redesigned sporty front bumper featuring pronounced air intakes. The rear is equally striking with new LED taillamps, designed to resemble crystal jewels, ensuring a recognizable and sophisticated design both day and night.
All Benz S Class 2018 models 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. Completing the exterior enhancements are two new 20″ alloy wheel designs.
Widescreen Cockpit and Advanced Control Concept
The interior of the 2018 Benz S Class is defined by two new, high-resolution 12.3-inch displays. These displays are seamlessly integrated beneath a single glass cover, creating a stunning widescreen cockpit that emphasizes the horizontal lines of the interior design.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2018 Benz S Class widescreen cockpit, showcasing the dual 12.3-inch high-resolution displays, new steering wheel with touch control buttons, and refined wood trim.
This wide-screen cockpit serves as both the instrument cluster, directly in the driver’s line of sight, and a central display positioned above the center console. The fully digital cockpit offers drivers a choice of three display styles – Classic, Sport, and Progressive – allowing for personalized information and views.
The redesigned steering wheel in the 2018 Benz S Class features Touch Control Buttons that respond to smartphone-like swiping motions. This intuitive system allows drivers to control the entire multimedia system without removing their hands from the steering wheel.
In addition to touch controls, the multimedia system can be operated via a touchpad with controller in the center console and through Voice Control. Operating Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and standard cruise control is also conveniently managed via steering wheel-mounted controls in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Authentic Materials and Meticulous Craftsmanship
The interior of the Benz S Class 2018 is adorned with high-quality materials, including two new natural grain ash wood trim options. The meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship create a refined look and feel, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz luxury.
The material and color palette has been carefully curated, featuring a wide range of brown tones, including three new upholstery color combinations: Silk Beige/Deep-Sea Blue, Magma Grey/Espresso Brown, and Mahogany/Silk Beige, allowing for a personalized and luxurious cabin environment in the 2018 Benz S Class.
Ambient Lighting with 64 Colors
Continuing the tradition of advanced lighting, the interior lighting of the 2018 Benz S Class exclusively utilizes long-lasting and energy-efficient LED technology. The optionally extended ambient lighting system offers an expansive spectrum of 64 colors, enabling a wealth of individual settings. This system illuminates trim elements, the central display, the front center console stowage, handle recesses, door pockets, front and rear footwells, and the overhead control panel when equipped with the Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound System, creating a truly immersive and customizable atmosphere within the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
All Benz S Class 2018 models come standard with KEYLESS-GO®, adding to the convenience and premium features.
ENERGIZING Comfort: Wellness While Driving
The groundbreaking ENERGIZING Comfort system, a world-first in series production for the 2018 Benz S Class, intelligently integrates various vehicle comfort systems. By systematically utilizing climate control (including fragrance), seat functions (heating, ventilation, massage), console heating, lighting, and musical atmospheres, it creates customized wellness setups tailored to the driver’s mood and needs. This holistic approach enhances physical comfort and performance, both while driving and during breaks, available for all seats depending on equipment level in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Six distinct Energizing Comfort programs are available:
- Freshness
- Warmth
- Vitality
- Joy
- Comfort
- Training (including muscle relaxation, muscle activation, and balance exercises)
Each ten-minute program is visually represented on the headunit with color graphics and accompanied by carefully selected music. Five songs are pre-loaded for each program. For example, the “Vitality” program emphasizes fast and upbeat music. If personal music selections are available via the Media Interface, the system analyzes them and assigns them to programs based on beats per minute (bpm). Individual functions within each program can also be deactivated, offering full customization in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
ENERGIZING Comfort also incorporates ambient lighting, harmoniously synchronized with each program’s screen designs. The lighting transforms the interior into a dynamic work of art through color worlds composed of different hues. Special effects can temporarily replace the color worlds, such as a unique lighting sequence to welcome the driver. Furthermore, the ambient lighting visually indicates temperature adjustments by changing color. The LED brightness is also adjustable across five levels and four zones: widescreen cockpit, front seats, rear compartment, and all lights.
The ambient lighting system in the 2018 Benz S Class creates emotionally engaging contrasts and structures the interior into distinct levels. With 64 colors, ten color worlds, and three lighting zones (footwells, trim element level, and widescreen cockpit), the system enables avant-garde lighting scenes with spectacular color transitions, enhancing the overall sensory experience within the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Powertrain Innovations: New Engines with Landmark Technology
The 2018 Benz S Class model range introduces the S450 and S450 4MATIC, powered by a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, offering a refined balance of performance and efficiency.
The new 4.0L V8 engine debuts with 463 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque in the Mercedes-Benz S560 and Mercedes-Maybach S560 4MATIC. This biturbo engine stands among the most economical V8s globally, achieving approximately ten percent better fuel economy than its predecessor. To further optimize fuel consumption, four cylinders of the new V8 can be deactivated under partial load using the CAMTRONIC valve-lift adjustment system. This reduces gas-cycle losses and improves the efficiency of the firing cylinders by shifting the operating point towards higher loads. The turbochargers, positioned within the V of the cylinder banks, represent another innovative feature of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018 powertrain.
For ultimate performance with significantly reduced fuel consumption, 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 new engine delivers an impressive 603 hp in the 2018 Benz S Class.
Intelligent Drive: The Next Evolution in Driver Assistance Systems
The 2018 Benz S Class takes a major step towards autonomous driving, advancing Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive to the next level. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now provide even more refined and comfortable support for maintaining safe distances and lane positioning. Speed adjustment is now automated in anticipation of curves and intersections, complemented by significantly enhanced Active Lane Change Assist and additional functionalities within Active Emergency Stop Assist in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Enhanced camera and radar systems provide the facelifted Benz S Class 2018 with a superior view of surrounding traffic. Furthermore, for the first time, the system utilizes map and navigation data to inform driving behavior.
Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC can proactively assist drivers in numerous situations based on route information, conveniently adjusting vehicle speed accordingly.
The “Assistance Graphics” menu in the instrument panel provides drivers with an at-a-glance overview of selected assistance functions and system responses. Clear icons in the instrument cluster and head-up display provide information, and all functions are now controllable from the steering wheel of the 2018 Benz S Class. The new Driver Assistance Package encompasses features including:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: Utilizes extensive map and navigation data to support route-based driving, with Active Speed Limit Assist for convenient speed adjustments.
- Active Steering Assist: Significantly improved across its performance range, offering enhanced customer benefits in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
- Active Lane Change Assist: Upgraded for simpler lane changes initiated by tapping the indicator stalk. Lane changes execute within ten seconds, indicated visually in the instrument cluster, provided no vehicles are detected in the safety zone.
- Active Emergency Stop Assist: Safely brings the vehicle to a stop if Active Steering Assist is engaged and the system detects sustained driver non-intervention.
- Traffic Sign Assist: Displays posted speed limits via image recognition and digital road map data, comparing vehicle speed to speed limits and issuing visual/audible warnings for exceeding limits in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Ride Quality: MAGIC BODY CONTROL Enhanced with CURVE Function
The Benz S Class 2018 further refines its renowned ride quality. Building on the technological breakthrough of Road Surface Scan introduced in 2013, which detects bumps and adjusts Active Body Control suspension, the system is now further enhanced. The stereo multipurpose camera now scans the road more thoroughly, even in dusk and at higher speeds. Another comfort enhancement is the CURVE function, now available for the first time in the S-Class Sedan (previously exclusive to the S-Class Coupe). This function allows the body to tilt inwards by up to 2.65 degrees when cornering, reducing centrifugal forces felt by passengers in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Long-Distance Vision: LED Intelligent Light System with Ultra Wide Beam
Pioneering LED technology since 2013, the 2018 Benz S Class offers the optional LED Intelligent Light System with advanced LED headlamps and Ultra Wide Beam high beams. The Ultra Wide Beam provides increased road illumination width for maximum visibility of the road and surrounding areas. This significantly enhances the already exceptional lighting performance of the LED Intelligent Light System. Adaptive Highbeam Assist, also part of the LED Intelligent Light System, allows drivers to use main beams continuously without dazzling other road users by selectively switching off LEDs when oncoming or preceding vehicles are detected, maintaining optimal illumination of the remaining road in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
Wireless Charging and New Concierge Service
The new headunit generation in the 2018 Benz S Class expands telephone options, including Near Field Communication for wireless smartphone charging (compatible with Qi wireless charging standard devices). The charging pad is integrated into the front center console stowage compartment.
The available Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound System, boasting 1520 watts of output, has been further enhanced with a speaker in the overhead control panel and two additional speakers in the sides, delivering an even more immersive audio experience in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018.
The mbrace® Concierge service provides mbrace® subscribers with a host of personalized services, from restaurant reservations and movie/sports event information to route guidance. Subscribers can directly connect to mbrace® Concierge via the i-button in the vehicle, with personal concierges handling all further arrangements, adding a new level of convenience to the Mercedes Benz S Class 2018 ownership experience.
The Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65 Sedans: Performance Luxury Redefined
Update for the Performance Luxury Sedan
Affalterbach – The AMG variants of the 2018 Benz S Class, the S63 and S65, receive significant updates, enhancing driving dynamics and visual appeal. The S63 sees a dramatic overhaul with a new engine, transmission, all-wheel drive system, and refreshed exterior and interior design. For improved performance and reduced fuel consumption, the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with cylinder deactivation replaces the previous 5.5L V8 biturbo. Despite the smaller displacement, the new engine produces a formidable 603 hp, a 26 hp increase over the predecessor. With a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds, the S63 matches the performance of many full-fledged sports cars. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission replaces the previous 7-speed gearbox, and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Alt text: Front view of the 2018 Mercedes-AMG S63 showcasing the AMG-specific grille with vertical louvers in high-gloss chrome and the redesigned front bumper with jet wing design.
The top-of-the-line AMG S65 Sedan also receives a visual update, emphasizing the exclusivity of this high-end 12-cylinder model in the AMG Benz S Class 2018 range. The Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine retains its impressive output of 621 hp and peak torque of 738 lb-ft. Both new models, with their advanced V8 and V12 biturbo engines, deliver greater power and torque than their competitors, solidifying AMG’s performance leadership.
The new LED Intelligent Light System and updated front bumper with jet wing design accentuate the more expressive appearance of both AMG S-Class models. Redesigned rear bumpers and modified tailpipe trim further enhance the distinctive design focus in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, highlighted the key attributes of the new models: “Impressive power, torque and performance on the road, as well as expressive design distinguish the new Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65. With the S63, we additionally took a major development step that supports our leadership claim in the areas of driving dynamics, performance, traction, equipment and demonstrative comfort. The S65, with its high-torque 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, remains the spearhead of the S-Class models.”
Technical Data at a Glance:
| Mercedes-AMG S63 Sedan | Mercedes-AMG S65 Sedan | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo with cylinder deactivation | Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | 5,980 cc |
| Output | 603 hp @ 5,500-6,000 rpm | 621 hp @ 4,800-5,400 rpm |
| Peak torque | 664 lb-ft @ 2,750-4,500 rpm | 738 lb-ft @ 2,300-4,300 rpm |
| Drive system | AMG Performance 4MATIC+ permanent all-wheel drive with fully-variable torque split | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed sports transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.4 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top speed | 186 mph (electronically limited) | 186 mph (electronically limited) |
Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo Engine with Twin-Scroll Turbochargers
The handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the S63 Sedan variant of the 2018 Benz S Class is offered exclusively in its highest performance configuration, delivering 603 hp. The peak torque of 664 lb-ft is available across a broad rev range (2,750 to 4,500 rpm). The 0-60 mph sprint takes a mere 3.4 seconds, making it the quickest performance luxury sedan in its class, with an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph.
This advanced handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine utilizes proven twin-turbo forced induction, with the two turbochargers positioned not externally on the cylinder banks but within the V of the cylinders – the “hot inner V” configuration. This design results in a compact engine, immediate turbocharger response, and reduced emissions thanks to optimized airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Two twin-scroll turbochargers enhance fresh-mixture cylinder charging, resulting in higher output, increased low-end torque, and highly responsive throttle behavior.
‘AMG Cylinder Management’ Cylinder Deactivation System
For maximized efficiency, Mercedes-AMG equips the V8 engine in the S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system. Under partial load, cylinders two, three, five, and eight are deactivated, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
When “Comfort” transmission driving mode is selected, cylinder deactivation is active across a wide engine speed range (1,000 to 3,250 rpm). The AMG main menu in the instrument cluster informs the driver whether cylinder deactivation is engaged and if the engine is operating under partial or full load. The transition between four and eight-cylinder operation is seamless and imperceptible, ensuring no compromise in passenger comfort in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Short Shift Times and High Efficiency: AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-Speed Transmission
For the first time, the S63 2018 Benz S Class features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9-speed transmission, known for its extremely rapid shift times, quick multiple downshifts, and rev-matching function. A wet start-off clutch replaces the traditional torque converter, saving weight and improving accelerator pedal response, particularly during acceleration and load changes.
The substantial torque of the S65 is managed by the proven AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, delivering tailored dynamics and high adaptability. Whether in automatic mode or manually controlled via steering wheel paddle shifters, gear changes are executed swiftly and directly. Especially in “Sport+” and manual modes, the transmission is exceptionally fast and responsive in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ Fully-Variable All-Wheel Drive
The S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class comes standard with the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts, offering fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles for optimal traction. Drivers benefit from enhanced handling stability and safety in all conditions – dry, wet, or snowy. The transition between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive is seamless, integrated within the vehicle’s overall system architecture in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
An electro-mechanically controlled clutch variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The ideal torque split is continuously calculated based on driving conditions and driver input. The performance sedan can transition continuously from traction-focused all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. Transitions are seamless and based on a sophisticated control matrix. Beyond traction and lateral dynamics, all-wheel drive also enhances longitudinal dynamics for more powerful acceleration in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Personalized Driving Experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT Driving Modes
The four AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes – “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual” – allow drivers to customize the characteristics of the AMG S63 and AMG S65 Sedans 2018 Benz S Class. Each mode adjusts key parameters such as engine and transmission response, suspension, steering, ESP®, and all-wheel drive (in the S63). Independent of DYNAMIC SELECT modes, the “M” button enables direct switching to manual mode for gearshifts exclusively via steering wheel paddles. Suspension settings can also be individually selected. The 3-stage ESP® and exhaust flap can be controlled via dedicated buttons in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
The “Comfort” setting provides balanced driving with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering setup, fuel-efficient powertrain configuration, and early upshifts with smooth gear changes and a subtle engine sound. Cylinder deactivation (S63), ECO Start/Stop, and sailing function (S63) are activated. The sailing function disengages the MCT transmission clutch when the accelerator is released between 37 and 99 mph, decoupling the engine from the powertrain, reducing engine speed to idle, and minimizing driving resistance in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
“Sport” and “Sport+” AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes prioritize high driving dynamics, offering agile accelerator pedal response, direct setup, emotionally engaging gearshifts with shortened shift times, and rev-matching on downshifts. Increased idle speed in “Sport+” enables even quicker acceleration from a standstill in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
The AMG S65 2018 Benz S Class also features the “Curve” driving mode, active between 9 mph and 112 mph. Curve-tilting function integrated with MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension in the S65 tilts the vehicle inwards up to 2.65 degrees when cornering, similar to a motorcycle, reducing perceived lateral forces and virtually eliminating body roll.
RACE START: Now Even Easier
The RACE START function is now available in the S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class, featuring simplified operation. In “Sport” or “Sport+” modes, drivers simply press the brake pedal firmly with their left foot while fully depressing the accelerator with their right foot. The onboard electronics then set the optimal engine speed. Paddle shifters can be used to adjust engine speed within a certain range based on requirements or road conditions. Upon releasing the brake pedal, the S63 accelerates with optimal traction, achieving a best-in-class 0-60 mph sprint in 3.4 seconds in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Pure Sound: Controllable AMG Performance Exhaust System
The AMG S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class is equipped standard with the controllable AMG Performance Exhaust System for a more emotionally resonant sound experience. Adjustable flaps modulate the exhaust note authentically and directly, opening or closing based on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode or via individual control using a dedicated button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the center console. “Comfort” and “Sport” modes emphasize comfort with a low-frequency V8 sound, while “Sport+” delivers a more emotionally charged and appealing sound in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Systematic Lightweight Design: AMG Lightweight Performance
The AMG Lightweight Performance strategy contributes to high driving dynamics and fuel efficiency in the AMG Benz S Class 2018. Lightweight measures include a lithium-ion starter battery, AMG forged alloy wheels, and the weight-optimized AMG Ceramic Composite Braking System. The S-Class outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is made of aluminum. A carbon fiber spare wheel recess further reduces weight by nine pounds.
Specially Developed Suspension for Maximum Dynamics
The AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC® in the AMG S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class allows drivers to preset damping to “Comfort” or “Sport,” ranging from relaxed long-distance comfort to dynamic sportiness. Rebound and compression are set independently, optimizing adaptation to driving conditions and road quality. Programmable mapping allows a wide range between minimum and maximum damping forces, with a more refined and perceptible difference between comfortable and sporty settings.
Mercedes-AMG developed specific front axle kinematics for the S63 Sedan, including increased wheel camber, a larger stabilizer bar, and a more rigid rear axle subframe mount. These measures optimize agility for spirited driving. Combined with the new front axle and tuned all-wheel-drive system, the S63 sets a new benchmark for driving dynamics in its segment within the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
AMG S65: AMG Sport Suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL with Curve-Tilting Function
The MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension in the S65 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class focuses on driving dynamics, proactively preparing for road bumps. MAGIC BODY CONTROL combines active suspension springs, continuously adjustable dampers, and Road Surface Scan. A stereo camera precisely scans the road ahead, optimally adjusting damping for each wheel in advance of upcoming bumps.
Previously exclusive to the S-Class Coupe, the standard curve-tilting function in the S65 2018 Benz S Class tilts the vehicle body inwards up to 2.65 degrees when cornering, significantly reducing perceived lateral forces and enhancing driving enjoyment on dynamic roads.
Springing behavior can be set to comfortable or sporty based on driving mode and personal preference; the curve-tilting function can also be activated. The active suspension effectively compensates for body roll, squat, and dive during acceleration, cornering, and braking. Continuously adjustable dampers enable comfortable basic damping and speed-dependent firm settings in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
The ride height of the AMG S65 Sedan can be raised by 1.6″ for increased ground clearance. At high speeds, the suspension automatically lowers by up to 0.6″, reducing aerodynamic drag and enhancing handling stability in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Direct Steering with Clear Feedback: AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering
The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive sports steering in the AMG S63 and S65 sedans 2018 Benz S Class features a variable steering ratio, distinguished by the AMG-specific rack-and-pinion ratio and precise, authentic feedback. Power assist varies across three stages: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+.” Relevant characteristics are automatically activated based on selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT mode or personalized in “Individual” mode. Minimal steering input is needed at low speeds, while high-speed stability is assured. The clearly defined steering center and authentic feedback contribute to optimal steering feel in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Excellent Control and Fade Resistance: AMG High-Performance Compound Braking System
The large AMG High-Performance Compound Braking System reliably and quickly decelerates the AMG sedans 2018 Benz S Class, offering fade resistance under high stress. Both the S63 and S65 feature 15.4″ x 1.4″ compound brake rotors with 6-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the front axle and 14.2″ x 0.9″ rotors with single-piston floating calipers on the rear axle.
The AMG Ceramic Composite Braking System is optional, reducing unsprung mass by over 20 percent, enhancing driving dynamics, agility, and ride quality in the AMG Benz S Class 2018. Ceramic brakes offer extended service life, higher corrosion resistance, and thermal stability, featuring 16.5″ x 1.6″ front and 14.2″ x 1.3″ rear brake discs. Visually identifiable by “AMG Carbon Ceramic” lettering on specially painted brake calipers.
3-stage ESP® offers enhanced safety or driving fun:
- ESP® ON: High safety level adapted to the car’s sporty character.
- ESP® Sport Handling Mode: Allows wider yaw angles before system intervention for sporty driving.
- ESP® OFF: System deactivated for sporty driving on closed circuits; ESP® reactivates temporarily during hard braking in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Front Bumper with New Jet Wing: Exterior Design
The AMG S63 and S65 2018 Benz S Class are visually distinguished by the LED Intelligent Light System and redesigned front bumper with an expressive jet wing design. Large side air intakes improve airflow to cooling modules, with a functional form inspired by motorsports. The three-dimensional front splitter reduces lift at the front axle.
Door sill paneling with three-dimensional high-gloss chrome inlays visually lowers the S-Class and adds tension to the side profile. AMG S-Class models feature large alloy wheels, 20-inch standard on the S63 Sedan and forged 20-inch standard on the S65, with optional forged 20-inch designs available. The exclusive forged wheels on the S65 feature 16 spokes twisted to radiate light-catching contours to the wheel hub, appearing larger than their actual dimensions. Ceramic mirror polishing ensures an exclusive look in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Standard forged wheels feature a high-quality, integrated wheel bolt cover of forged aluminum, resembling a motorsport center lock, with the AMG logotype incorporated as a design element. Three other optional forged wheels of the same size are available, including two matte black variants with high-sheen rim flanges.
The powerful rear end of the AMG S63 and S65 2018 Benz S Class features an updated rear bumper with a diffuser insert and redesigned model-specific dual tailpipes of the AMG Sport or Performance Exhaust Systems. High-gloss chrome design elements at the front, side, and rear enhance visual appeal, particularly with dark paint finishes.
Interior: Premium Appointments, Design, and Quality
The stylish character of the new AMG S-Class models 2018 Benz S Class is evident in the exclusive interior ambience. AMG Sports Seats with memory function and seat heating offer increased lateral support for driver and front passenger. Nappa leather in AMG design with AMG badges in front and rear backrests creates a luxurious atmosphere. Embossed AMG emblems on the front center console armrest and an analogue clock in exclusive IWC design with three-dimensional, milled metal hands and genuine metal appliqués add special touches.
Alt text: Interior detail of the Mercedes-AMG 2018 Benz S Class showcasing the new-generation three-spoke AMG Performance Steering Wheel with paddle shifters and deeply contoured rim.
New-generation three-spoke AMG Performance Steering Wheels feature paddle shifters, deeply contoured rims trimmed in perforated leather, and a metal insert with the AMG logo. Optional black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber is available. Steering wheel controls provide direct access to driving functions, enhancing the AMG driving experience in the 2018 Benz S Class.
AMG-specific displays on the 12.3″ widescreen color display provide information on engine speed, vehicle speed, and more. Drivers can choose from “Classic,” “Sport” (exclusive AMG design), and “Progressive” display designs. The expanded AMG menu displays engine and transmission oil temperature, G-force meter, engine output and torque, boost pressure, tire temperatures and pressures, and current vehicle setup in the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
Numerous Options from the AMG Performance Studio
For further customization of the AMG S63 and S65 2018 Benz S Class, the AMG Performance Studio offers performance options. Exterior personalization includes the AMG Night Package, alternative wheels, and a carbon fiber package. Interior enhancements include the Black Nappa Leather/DINAMICA microfiber AMG Performance Steering Wheel and carbon or Carbon/Piano Lacquer trim elements.
AMG TRACK PACE App
Motorsport enthusiasts can utilize the AMG TRACK PACE App in the S63 Sedan 2018 Benz S Class to record vehicle data and lap times on race tracks. Values are displayed on the COMAND display, and current times are visible in the Widescreen Cockpit. Data analysis allows drivers to precisely evaluate their driving style and improve lap times, further enhancing the performance capabilities of the AMG Benz S Class 2018.
The redesigned performance luxury sedans premiered at the Shanghai Auto Show on April 18, 2017, marking a new chapter in the legacy of the Benz S Class 2018 as a benchmark of luxury, innovation, and performance.
