2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury and engineering from the iconic German marque. Building upon its legendary reputation, the 2018 model year saw a significant mid-cycle refresh, introducing updated styling, enhanced technology, and even more advanced driver-assistance systems. It continues to be the benchmark for full-size luxury sedans, offering an unparalleled blend of comfort, performance, and sophistication.
Highlights
Engine: The 2018 S-Class offered a range of potent and refined powertrains, primarily focusing on smooth, effortless acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency for its class.
- S 450: Featuring a 3.0-liter biturbo V6 engine, this model provided a strong and capable entry point, delivering ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising.
- S 560: This model housed a powerful 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine, offering a significant boost in performance and a more authoritative presence on the road.
- AMG S 63: For those seeking ultimate performance, the AMG S 63 boasted a hand-built 4.0-liter biturbo V8 with an aggressive tune, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a dynamic driving experience.
- AMG S 65: The flagship performance model featured a massive 6.0-liter biturbo V12 engine, providing effortless torque and an unparalleled sense of effortless power, a true automotive icon.
Safety Features: Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of safety innovation, and the 2018 S-Class was no exception, packed with cutting-edge technologies designed to protect occupants and assist the driver.
- PRE-SAFE® System: This suite of preventative safety measures prepares the vehicle and occupants for an impending collision by automatically tightening seatbelts, closing windows and the sunroof, and adjusting seats to an optimal position.
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC®: An advanced adaptive cruise control system that not only maintains a set speed but also automatically adjusts it to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Active Steering Assist: This system can help the driver stay in their lane by providing steering assistance, particularly useful on highways and curved roads, reducing driver fatigue.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Extends the capabilities of the PRE-SAFE® system by detecting potential rear-end collisions and taking measures to mitigate impact, such as activating hazard lights and tightening seatbelts.
- Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function: Can detect vehicles and pedestrians in the car's path and apply braking automatically if the driver doesn't react to prevent or mitigate a collision.
- Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist: Standard electronic aids that alert the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and help prevent unintentional lane departures.
Summary of Trims: The 2018 S-Class was available in several distinct variants, each offering a unique blend of luxury and performance.
- S 450: The refined entry-level luxury sedan, offering a comfortable and technologically advanced experience. Available in both rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
- S 560: A step up in performance and luxury, the S 560 delivers the iconic S-Class experience with a more potent V8 engine. Available in both rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
- AMG S 63: The performance-oriented variant, featuring aggressive styling, a powerful AMG-tuned V8 engine, and an enhanced suspension for a more engaging driving dynamic. Exclusively 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
- AMG S 65: The ultimate expression of S-Class performance, powered by a massive V12 engine and offering unparalleled acceleration and a supremely refined yet potent driving experience. Rear-wheel drive only.
Other Notable Aspects:
- Updated Exterior Design: The 2018 refresh brought a revised front fascia with new headlights featuring a distinctive three-bar daytime running light signature, a subtly updated grille, and revised taillights.
- Enhanced Interior Technology: The infotainment system received a significant upgrade with new steering wheel controls featuring touch-sensitive pads, a larger 12.3-inch display, and the introduction of the highly intuitive Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) interface in select models.
- Superior Ride Comfort: Renowned for its exceptional ride quality, the 2018 S-Class utilized advanced suspension systems, including the optional MAGIC BODY CONTROL®, which actively scans the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly for unparalleled smoothness.
- Whisper-Quiet Cabin: The S-Class is celebrated for its acoustically engineered cabin, providing a serene and tranquil environment for occupants, effectively filtering out road and wind noise.
What to Expect
Owning a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an experience defined by unparalleled comfort, effortless performance, and sophisticated technology. The daily driving experience is typically serene and luxurious, with the car effortlessly gliding over most road surfaces. The cabin is a sanctuary of calm, with meticulously crafted materials, supportive and comfortable seating, and a quiet environment that makes even long journeys feel relaxed.
Maintenance: As a flagship luxury vehicle, the S-Class requires specialized maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Expect regular scheduled maintenance intervals, typically every 10,000 miles or annually, which will include oil changes, filter replacements, and comprehensive inspections. While the V8 and V12 engines are robust, they are complex and may require attention from Mercedes-Benz certified technicians. Routine maintenance costs will be higher than those of more common vehicles due to the specialized parts and labor involved.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will generally be higher than for less luxurious or performance-oriented vehicles. This is attributed to the car's high value, expensive repair costs for specialized components, and the advanced safety and technology features that can be costly to replace or repair after an incident. Comprehensive coverage is highly recommended to protect your investment.
Potential Considerations
While the 2018 S-Class is an exceptional automobile, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Complexity of Technology: The sheer volume of advanced technology, while a significant draw, can also be overwhelming for some users. The learning curve for mastering all the features, from the infotainment system to the various driver-assistance settings, can be steep.
- Rear-Seat Focus: While the front seats are supremely comfortable, the S-Class has always been a car that excels when chauffeured. If you are primarily looking for a car to drive yourself in a spirited manner, some might argue that other Mercedes-Benz models or competitors might offer a more engaging driving experience, though the AMG models certainly address this.
- Maintenance Costs: As mentioned, ongoing maintenance and potential repair costs can be significantly higher than for mainstream vehicles. It's crucial to factor this into your ownership budget and consider extended warranty options for added peace of mind.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands as a remarkable achievement in automotive engineering and design. It offers an unmatched combination of opulent comfort, refined performance, and cutting-edge safety and technology. The mid-cycle refresh further solidified its position as the benchmark for luxury sedans, delivering a driving and ownership experience that is both profoundly relaxing and undeniably impressive. For those seeking the ultimate expression of automotive luxury and a vehicle that coddles its occupants in a world of sophisticated technology and serene tranquility, the 2018 S-Class remains a compelling and highly desirable choice.
