► S-class updates rolled out to 2dr models
► New engines, tech incoming for 2018
► On display at 2017 Frankfurt motor show
In case you missed it, the Mercedes S-class has recently had a subtle spring clean, with new engines and new driver assistance tech.
Now it’s the turn of the two-door S-class Coupe and S-class Cabriolet variants to get the same treatment.
Click here to read CAR’s review of the updated 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-class saloon
What’s new for 2018 in the Mercedes S-class Coupe and S-class Cabriolet?
Driving assistance systems
So-called Active Distance Control Distronic can now adjust its speed automatically ahead of bends, junctions and roundabouts via links with the navigation mapping data. Ditto the Active Steering Assist system.
‘Widescreen Cockpit’
Two new high-res displays for the rectangular 12.3-inch screens in the dashboard. Both screens are housed together under one glass cover, and dubbed ‘Widescreen Cockpit.’ The one closest to the steering wheel displays the instruments, with a choice of layouts. The navigation map can now be viewed in the centre of the instruments.
Three new dashboard finishes are available: high-gloss walnut, satin grey ash, or magnolia wood. Various new upholstery options have been added to the range, too.
Latest infotainment system
Including more detailed 3D sat-nav mapping, a greater range of voice control functions and online concierge services.
You can unlock the car from your smartphone, and charge it wirelessly once you’re inside.
New steering wheels
With touchscreen-style swipable Touch Control buttons, controlling the instrument cluster display and the infotainment system.
The cruise control system is now controlled from the steering wheel, too.
New tail-lights
Made up of 66 OLEDs (the ‘O’ standing for organic) with animated dimming sequences when the car’s locked or unlocked.
The OLEDs are programmed to shine with different levels of intensity for the brake lights and indicators, depending on the ambient light conditions during the day or night.
New V8 bi-turbo engine in the S 560 Coupe and Cabriolet models
Claimed to be one of the world’s most ecomomical V8 petrol engines, the latest-generation bi-turbo V8 is said to consume 8% less fuel than its predecessor (with average fuel consumption of around 35mpg in the Coupe and 34mpg in the Cabrio), thanks partially to active cylinder shutdown.
It offers 463bhp and around 516lb ft of torque, with CO2 emissions rated at 183g/km.
New name for the V6 petrol Coupe: the S 450
Now with a gliding function to boost efficiency and a nine-speed auto transmission.
New front aprons with redesigned air intakes and chrome-plated splitter
The tougher-looking AMG Line trims get slightly different front and rear bumpers.
New wheel designs
AMG Line versions get two new wheel designs, 20 inches in diameter, in either titanium grey or gloss black.
Are there still muscly AMG versions?
Indeed there are, for both the Coupe and the Cabrio: the 4.0-litre V8-powered S63 and the 6.0-litre V12 S65.
Both get a giant new ‘Panamericana’ grille.
In the S63, AMG’s ubiquitous 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 replaces the previous 5.5 V8. The newer, smaller lump is a bit more powerful and a lot more efficient. It’s combined with a nine-speed auto transmission, and variable all-wheel drive – new to the AMG S-class Coupe and Cabriolet.
The range-topping twin-turbo V12 S65 is just as powerful as before, with 621bhp and a giant 1000Nm (738lb ft) of torque.
The range at a glance
Mercedes S-class Coupe models:
S 450 (362bhp 3.0 V6)
S 560 (463bhp 4.0 V8)
AMG S63 (604bhp 4.0 V8)
AMG S65 (621bhp 6.0 V12)
Mercedes S-class Cabriolet models:
S 560 (463bhp 4.0 V8)
AMG S63 (604bhp 4.0 V8)
AMG S65 (621bhp 6.0 V12)
Click here for more new cars from Frankfurt 2017
Click here for all CAR’s Mercedes-Benz review