All S-Classes get facelifted front and rear bumpers that put it more in line with the slightly curvier E-Class. Radiator grilles previously found only on the V12 models are now available across the line. The LED head- and taillights are updated. There are also two new 20-inch wheel designs available.
Inside, there is a three-spoke steering wheel, three new upholstery offerings, and an updated infotainment system with a single-piece glass display. The S-Class also gets an updated safety suite. Active Distance Assist Distronic can now adjust speeds ahead of corners, slowing down and speeding up all automatically. This is similar to the system on the latest Audis. The S-Class also gets wireless phone charging in the center console.
Under the hood, the S450 gets a new 3.0-liter V6 that makes 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the S560 gets you a new 4.0-liter V8 with a healthy 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This new V8 gets cylinder deactivation to improve fuel economy. Other changes include a “hot V” configuration where the the turbochargers are placed in between the cylinder banks.
In addition to the visual and tech updates, the S-Class AMG twins receive some additional revisions for 2018. The S63 and S65 benefit from new engines, transmissions, and an all-wheel drive system. Both models get revised brakes, fresh wheels, a new exhaust system, adaptive sport seats, and performance apps built into the infotainment system. The cars get updated suspensions, with the S65’s based on Mercedes‘ Magic Body Control.
The S65 continues on with the same 6.0-liter V12 as the current model, churning out the same 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Like the S560, the S63 ditches a 5.5-liter V8, replacing it with a more powerful 4.0-liter V8. In the AMG, the 4.0-liter makes 603 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. All that power is sent to the wheels through a new nine-speed automatic and a revised version of Mercedes’ 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system.
Changes to the already opulent Mercedes-Maybach line are minimal. The Maybach logo makes its way to the front grille, so your friends at the yacht club know you’re not driving just any S-Class. The Maybach version of the S560 gets the same new 4.0-liter V8 as the standard model. Other than that, passengers can expect the same fantastic ride as the current model with some updated styling.
While the cars in these photos appear to be the short-wheelbase model, look for the extended version when the new S-Class comes to the US sometime later this year.
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