The Mercedes S580e is the daddy of PHEVs thanks to its incredible 62-mile electric driving range. And with a total system output of 496 hp and 750 Nm of torque, it’s also a rapid means of jumping between stoplights on the way to your next global merger. The PHEV was only available in rear-wheel drive form from launch, while the V8-powered S580 came exclusively with 4Matic all-wheel drive despite a 37 lb-ft weaker torque output.
The two-wheel drive car is fine for sunny
climates, but everyone else is sure to welcome the news that Mercedes has now added
an all-wheel drive option to the PHEV model. Bar the extra transmission
hardware, the running gear is unchanged. Contrary to what the badge suggests,
the PHEV isn’t powered by the S580’s V8, but a 362 hp 3.0-liter turbo
six that’s augmented by a 148 hp electric motor. The battery can be
fully charged in as little as 30 minutes and can whisk the S580e along at
speeds up of to 87 mph, though if you try that for any sustained period you’re
not going to get near the 62-mile EV range. U.S. prices and mileage figures are
still TBC, but in Germany, where both standard and long-wheelbase versions are
available, the 4Matic starts at € 130,638 (US$ 147,900), compared with € 126,830
(US$ 143,600) for the two-wheel drive car.
Other changes that affect all S-class
models include a tweaked MBUX infotainment system that now has the same zero
layer philosophy already showcased on the EQS electric sedan. The idea is that
the car will know which applications the driver needs based on the driving
situation to save him from having to endlessly scroll looking for it, or giving
voice commands. In addition, the main functions will always be visible on the
top level of the screen. Which sounds suspicuously similar to what it was like
in the old days when we still had actual hard buttons to press and didn’t have
to go hunting in screen menus.
There are also more personalisation
options available through Merc’s new Manufaktur program and, for the first
time, a leather-free interior. Instead of cow, you get Benz’s Artico man-made
leather. Yep, you can have your US$ 150k Mercedes with plastic seats.
