Mercedes-Benz has introduced three new engines in its S-Class grand saloon range.
The S350 BlueEfficiency is equipped with a 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine that develops 225 kW and 370 N.m. A 4,7-litre biturbo V8, which develops 320 kW and 700 N.m, now does duty in the S500 and when we recently experienced the powerplant during the local launch of the Mercedes-Benz CL, we came away very impressed.
At the top end of the S-Class range there are obviously two AMG models. Although the S65 AMG remains the stronger of the two in terms of power and torque outputs (463 kW/1 000 N.m), it is the all new 5,5-litre biturbo V8 of the S63 AMG that warrants a mention. As is the case with the CL63 AMG in the the CL coupé range (look out for a road test in the April 2011 issue of CAR), the engine produces 400 kW and 800 N.m, but, for those who would like to tick the AMG performance package box, at R64 600, they will get another 20 kW and 100 N.m.
These new engines do not only spell a hike in performance, but also an decrease in fuel consumption. According to Mercedes-Benz the S350 BlueEfficiency will only use 7,6 litres per 100 km on the combined cycle.
Claimed zero to 100 km/h acceleration times range between 6,9 seconds and 4,4 seconds while top speed is limited to 250 km/h for all models, except if you take the performance package on the S63, which raises it to a more rounded 300 km/h. Apart from the standard S500, buyers can also opt for the long-wheelbase S500 L.
Pricing
S350 BlueEfficiency R1 003 480
S500 BlueEfficiency R1 254 900
S500 L BlueEfficiency R1 356 700
S63 AMG R1 695 610
S65 AMG R2 245 100
