In a rather surprising move, Mercedes-Benz decided to tease the W222 S-Class facelift at the 2017 New York International Auto Show and schedule its global premier at the Auto Shanghai expo happening from 21 April to 28 April. Based on the teaser, we know that the S-Class facelift will feature new engine options, semi-autonomous driving technology and finally, a new headlamp design to distinguish itself from its smaller siblings.
If the only thing that is stopping you from getting an S-Class is the single bar LED daytime running lights that looks too similar to the C-Class, well you’re in luck. The facelift will bring about a three-bar LED daytime running lights design with a new Multibeam LED headlamps and Ultra Range High Beam function. No more mistaking the S-Class for a C-Class now.
Mercedes-Benz will also be introducing new engine options to the S-Class facelift including in-line six-cylinder petrol and diesel, bi-turbo V8 and a plug-in hybrid with a pure electric range of 50 km. Expect Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) to allow its customers to access the full range of engine options for their beloved limo.
Perhaps the most significant update to the S-Class is the updated Intelligent Drive system that allows for semi-autonomous driving. The new system upgrades the Distronic Active Proximity Control and Active Steer Assist to allow for an even more comfortable driving support. Thanks to enhanced cameras and radar systems, the S-Class is able to have a better view of the surrounding traffic. The system now uses map and navigation data to calculate driving behaviour.
Among the systems that will be featured on the new Driving Assistance package includes but not limited to – Distronic Active Proximity Assist, adjusts the vehicle speed based on driving route; Active Steer Assist, helps correct erratic steering behaviour; Active Lane Change Assist, initiates lane change with a tap of the indicator within the next 10 seconds; Active Emergency Stop Assist, applies brakes when an imminent collision is detected; Following vehicles in a tailback, automatically accelerate and brakes in stop and go traffic; Traffic Sign Assist, displays traffic signs on the instrument cluster when a road sign is detected and Remote Parking Assist, enables the driver to manoeuvre the vehicle into tight spaces remotely via a smartphone app.
Market launch of the S-Class facelift will commence in July with the European market getting first dibs. Considering that the S-Class is a popular model in our market and relentless product offensive MBM is at, we may very well see this updated limo on our shores shortly after the European market introduction. For now, stay tuned to our website AutoBuzz.my for the S-Class facelift!
IMAGE GALLERY
