New Mercedes 4MATIC for S-Class

1: Overview

Comfort and driving dynamics attain new level of perfection

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is now available with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. Developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-Benz, this all-new drive system combines perfect traction, first-class comfort and impressive driving dynamics with good fuel economy. Two powerful eight-cylinder models are available in the form of the S 500 4MATIC and S 450 4MATIC while the S 320 CDI 4MATIC is the first S-Class all-wheel-drive variant to be equipped with a particularly economical V6 diesel engine. The new models with all-wheel drive are identified clearly by the 4MATIC legend which appears both on the boot lid and on the wooden trim element on the centre console.

The top model from Mercedes-Benz with the new 4MATIC all-wheel-drive is aimed at drivers whose principal requirement is for a luxury saloon able to cope with all weather conditions with absolute assurance. This need is met by the S-Class 4MATIC models, whose newly developed drive system features a planetary-type centre differential. The permanent, fixed power split between the front and rear wheels in a ratio of 45 to 55 percent guarantees assured and absolutely predictable handling on all road surfaces. An integrated multiplate clutch ensures additional traction and optimum directional stability as soon as the wheels show any sign of slipping. With the support of the ESP®, ASR and 4ETS electronic driving safety systems, the S-Class 4MATIC offers a dynamic, comfortable and safe transport solution, even in adverse road conditions.

Trend-setting all-wheel-drive system developed by Mercedes-Benz

The 4MATIC system's compact, light and friction-optimised design offers clear advantages over other systems with regard to weight, fuel consumption, comfort and passive safety. Depending on the engine type, the all-wheel-drive technology results in an unrivalled low additional weight of just 66 or 70 kilograms.

Mercedes-Benz will also be offering this trend-setting all-wheel-drive technology in other passenger cars in the future. The new 4MATIC drive for the S-Class was developed independently by a team of specialists at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen and in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim. The all-wheel-drive components are produced in a coordinated production system comprising the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, Esslingen-Hedelfingen and Esslingen-Mettingen major component plants.

Two powerful eight-cylinder models with 4MATIC

Assured performance of the highest order is guaranteed by the S 500 4MATIC und S 450 4MATIC eight-cylinder models. In the S 500 4MATIC, the advanced 5.5-litre V8-engine with four valves per cylinder, 285 kW/388 hp and 530 Newton metres offers first-class performance: the new S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and is therefore as fast as the rear-wheel-drive variant. Thanks to the optimised weight and friction characteristics of the all-wheel-drive system, the additional fuel consumption is agreeably low. With figures of 12.1 to 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) compared with 11.7 to 11.9 litres per 100 km for the S 500 without all-wheel-drive, it is clear that the new drive system is able to offer impressive savings.

The S 450 4MATIC is powered by a 4663-cc, eight-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder which develops, 250 kW/340 hp and 460 Newton metres of torque. Here, too, this V8 model with all-wheel-drive accelerates as quickly as its rear-wheel-drive counterpart, attaining 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. With NEDC combined fuel consumption of 11.6 to 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres, the additional fuel consumption - as in the case of the S 500 4MATIC - is only 0.4 litres.

A first for the S-Class: all-wheel drive in combination with a diesel engine

An even more economical choice is available in the form of the new S 320 CDI 4MATIC - a model which marks a first for the S-Class by combining all-wheel drive with a diesel engine. The advanced V6 turbodiesel with common rail high-pressure injection develops 173 kW/235 hp and 540 Newton metres of torque, accelerating the saloon to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds; the top speed is 245 km/h. With fuel consumption of between 8.7 and 8.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, this model has a range of more than 1000 kilometres. Like the V8 petrol models, the S 320 CDI 4MATIC consumes just 0.4 litres more fuel than the equivalent model with a standard drive system.

On all S-Class 4MATIC models, power management is performed by the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with steering-column DIRECT SELECT gear selector and steering-wheel gearshift buttons. The V6 and V8 petrol-engined models are equipped as standard with the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission, which is tuned for more direct, faster response.

Immediate market launch for V8 models, V6 CDI follows in December 2006

The S 500 4MATIC, S 450 4MATIC and S 320 CDI 4MATIC are available in short and long wheelbase versions. The market launch of the V8 models in Mercedes-Benz sales and service outlets and authorised dealerships will start in September 2006. The diesel variant will appear in December 2006, to be followed by the S 350 4MATIC with a 200-kW/272-hp V6 petrol engine in mid-2007.

Overview

	Cyl.	cc	kW/hp at rpm	Nm from rpm	Transmission	0-100 s	Top speed km/h	l/100 km NEDC combined
S 320 CDI 4MATIC	V6	2987	173/235 3600	540 1600	7G-TRONIC	7.8	245	8.7-8.9
S 450 4MATIC	V8	4663	250/340 6000	460/ 2700	7G-TRONIC	5.9	250	11.6-11.8
S 500 4MATIC	V8	5461	285/388 6000	530/ 2800	7G-TRONIC	5.4	250	12.1-12.3

Wide variety: 48 all-wheel-drive models from Mercedes-Benz

The extended choice of all-wheel-drive vehicles from Mercedes-Benz now comprises seven model series and impresses with its great diversity: it starts with the C and E-Class, both of which are available with 4MATIC in Saloon and Estate form, and includes the new S-Class and the R-Class touring SUV, both of which are available in two body variants. Furthermore, the Stuttgart-based auto maker produces three off-roaders - the new GL-Class, the M-Class and the G-Class, a classic among cross-country vehicles. In total, therefore, Mercedes-Benz offers no less than 48 all-wheel-drive models.

This product initiative reflects the considerable emphasis which Mercedes-Benz is placing on the market for all-wheel-drive passenger cars and off-roaders - a market characterised by a distinct year-on-year growth trend. A look at the S-Class segment also makes this clear: in the German market, the share of all-wheel-drive models increased from six percent in 2002 to nine percent in 2005. During the same period, the all-wheel-drive share of this segment in the European market also increased from six percent to nine. Worldwide sales of the S-Class 4MATIC predecessor model, which was launched in 2002, amounted to almost 29,000 vehicles in just under three years. In 2005, the all-wheel-drive S-Class models had a worldwide share of about 18 percent of the total sales volume of this model series. Overall, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 1.2 million passenger cars and cross-country vehicles with permanent all-wheel-drive (figures correct as of July 2006).

Over 20 years of 4MATIC from Mercedes-Benz

The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985. One year later, Mercedes-Benz presented the new technology in the E-Class of the time, the 124 model series. Delivery of the first models with the automatically engaging all-wheel-drive system began in spring 1987. The succes-sor model series, the 210, premiered a completely new permanent all-wheel drive system in 1997. As the first all-wheel-drive passenger car from the Stuttgart-based car brand, the E-Class paved the way for the adoption of this innovative drive and safety technology in other Mercedes-Benz model series.

2: Model range I

Model range: Four S-Class models with 4MATIC

• Two powerful V8 models initially, two V6 variants to follow
• All-wheel-drive available with powerful V6 CDI engine for the first time
• Output ranges from 173 kW/235 hp to 285 kW/388 hp
• Comprehensive high-tech standard equipment for all models
• designo range and AMG features optionally available

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC range impresses with its wide variety and its ability to meet the most diverse customer requirements. Four different engines and two body variants with a long and a short wheelbase are available. At the top of the range, the S 500 4MATIC has a 5.5-litre V8 engine which develops 285 kW/ 388 hp and thus offers an increase in performance of more than 26 percent com-pared with the previous eight-cylinder power plant. Its torque figure of 530 Newton metres is also significantly higher (by some 15 percent) than the peak value at-tained by its predecessor. Maximum torque is available from 2800 rpm and re-mains constant across a wide engine speed range up to 4800 rpm, for excellent acceleration and mid-range power:

• The new S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, the same time as that taken by the S 500 with rear-wheel drive. Compared with the predecessor model, the Saloon is more than a second faster.
• In third gear, the S 500 4MATIC accelerates from 60 to 120 km/h in just 5.6 seconds.
• The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically governed).

The eight-cylinder power plant in the S 500 4MATIC is the top unit in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz V-engines which was successfully introduced in mid-2004. Equipped with four valves per cylinder, infinitely adjustable intake and exhaust camshafts, a two-stage intake module and tumble flaps in the intake ducts, the V8 is among the engines with the highest power output and torque in its displacement class. Other technical highlights of this eight-cylinder engine include special shifting camshafts. These reduce the inherent pressure fluctuations in the exhaust train and thereby considerably improve the engine's gas cycle. This makes itself felt among other things by smoother running and higher torque in the lower and medium engine speed ranges. The Mercedes V8 employs the latest lightweight construction principles, with an aluminium crankcase, low-friction cylinder liners of aluminium/silicon alloy, a forged steel crankshaft and weight-optimised connecting rods.

Fuel consumption up by just 0.4 litres compared with S 500

The fact that the combined NEDC fuel consumption of 12.1 to 12.3 litres per 100 km returned by the S 500 4MATIC represents a saving of almost one litre compared with the predecessor model – despite the new unit's higher power and torque – clearly demonstrates the efficiency of the up-to-date design and high-tech features of the new Mercedes eight-cylinder engine. Furthermore, the newly developed all-wheel-drive system also has a positive impact. Optimised for weight and friction characteristics, it results in only a slight increase in fuel consumption – just 0.4 litres – compared with the two-wheel drive version of the S 500 (11.7 to 11.9 litres per 100 km).

Key data at a glance:

	S 500 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V8/4
Displacement cc	5461
Bore x stroke mm	98.0 x 90.5
Compression ratio	10.7 : 1
OutputkW/hp at rpm	285/388 6000
Max torque Nm at rpm	530 2800-4800
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	12.1-12.3
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	5.4 5.6
Top speed km/h*	250

*Electronically governed

S 450 4MATIC – second V8 model with 250 kW/340 hp

The second V8 model is the new S 450 4MATIC which is now also available as a rear-wheel-drive model. Its engine technology is closely related to that of the 5.5-litre eight-cylinder unit and includes four valves per cylinder, infinitely ad-justable shifting intake and exhaust camshafts, a two-stage intake module, tumble flaps in the intake ducts, an aluminium crankcase, low-friction cylinder liners, a forged steel crankshaft and weight-optimised connecting rods. With a displacement of 4663 cc, it develops a peak output of 250 kW/340 hp and its maximum torque of 460 Newton metres is available across a wide engine speed range from 2700 to 5000 rpm. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 5.9 seconds puts the S 450 4MATIC on a par with its rear-wheel-drive counterpart. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically governed). At 11.6 to 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres, its fuel consumption is only 0.4 litres higher than that of the "normal" S 450. This is analogous to the difference in fuel consumption between the corresponding S 500 models.

Key data at a glance:

	S 450 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V8/4
Displacement cc	4663
Bore x stroke mm	92.9 x 86.0
Compression ratio	10.7 : 1
Output kW/hp at rpm	250/340 6000
Max torque Nm at rpm	460 2700-5000
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	11.6-11.8
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	5.9 6.6
Top speed km/h*	250

*Electronically governed

Premiere for S-Class with diesel engine and all-wheel drive

The third S-Class all-wheel-drive model – and also the most economical one – is the S 320 CDI 4MATIC. This is the first time that all-wheel drive has been combined with a turbodiesel engine in the top Mercedes-Benz model series. The advanced six-cylinder CDI unit develops 173 kW/235 hp and offers maximum torque of 540 Newton metres which is available between 1600 and 2800 rpm. These impressive figures put the direct-injection diesel among the engines with the highest power output and torque in its displacement class. As the figures suggest, the powerful six-cylinder engine offers extremely respectable performance: with a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 7.8 seconds, the all-wheel-drive Saloon performs to the same high standard as its two-wheel drive counterpart; the top speed is 245 km/h; Thanks to the favourable NEDC combined fuel consumption figure of between 8.7 and 8.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, operating ranges in excess of 1000 kilometres are possible. Compared with the rear-wheel-drive S 320 CDI, the 4MATIC model consumes only an additional 0.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 km.

Key data at a glance:

	S 320 CDI 4MATIC
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder	V6/4
Displacement cc	2984
Bore x stroke mm	83.0 x 92.0
Compression ratio	17.7 : 1
Output kW/hp at rpm	173/235 3600
Max torque Nm at rpm	540 1600-2400
Combined fuel consumption l/100 km	8.7 - 8.9
Accel. 0-100 km/h s 60-120 km/h s	7.8 6.7
Top speed km/h	245

3: Model range II

Powerful six-cylinder diesel engine with high-tech features

A glance at the technical refinements which characterise the 3.0-litre engine explains the impressive performance data. The high-tech features of this compact V6 power plant include third-generation common rail direct injection. The combination of an injection pressure of up to 1600 bar and particularly fast-acting piezo-electric injectors ensures efficient mixture formation. Further highlights of the 320 CDI engine include electrically controlled intake port shut-off, intake air throttling, a VNT (Variable Nozzle Turbine) turbocharger with electrically adjustable guide vanes and exhaust gas recirculation with a control valve. Like all Mercedes-Benz diesel passenger cars, the S 320 CDI 4MATIC is equipped as standard with a maintenance-free particulate filter system.

7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with Sport program as standard

Power transfer in all S-Class 4MATIC models is handled by the 7G-TRONIC auto-matic transmission with steering-column DIRECT SELECT gear selector and steer-ing-wheel gearshift buttons. This combination ensures that optimum use can be made of the impressive performance and torque capabilities in every driving situation. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive models have identical gear spacing and ratios, which has a positive effect on the performance and fuel consumption figures.

An all-new development for all S-Class V6 and V8 petrol models is the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission. The S/C/M button on the centre console can be used to activate the manual "M" driving mode, allowing the seven gears to be shifted using the two steering-wheel shift buttons – downshifts are performed by pulling briefly on the left button while the right button is used for shifting up. In "M" mode, the system's electronics reliably maintain the last gear selected, even at full throttle. It is thus possible to make optimum use of the high pulling power of the V6 and V8 engines. However, fully depressing the accelerator (kickdown mode) causes the transmission to shift down in order to deliver maximum acceleration. 7G-TRONIC Sport reduces shift times by up to 30 percent in manual mode.

PRE-SAFE® as standard, Brake Assist PLUS as an optional extra

The unique PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system also forms part of the standard equipment of the S-Class all-wheel-drive models. PRE-SAFE® recognises a potential accident situation in its early stages: if the braking deceleration exceeds a certain level or there is a risk of skidding, the system tightens the front seat belts and pumps air into the chambers of the multicontour seats so that they envelop and support the driver and other vehicle occupants.

Available as an option, Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS) uses radar to register vehicles ahead and warns the driver if the distance is too small or if he or she is approaching the vehicle ahead too quickly. If a collision is imminent, the system instantly calculates the ideal braking assistance, which is immediately supplied even if the driver applies the brakes too gently. This makes it possible to reduce substantially the number of rear-end collisions. The combination of the new Brake Assist PLUS and PRE-SAFE® makes it possible to provide a higher level of occupant protection. Mercedes-Benz is the first and only automaker in the world to offer such a comprehensive safety system, which goes into action as soon as an accident risk is detected.

PRE-SAFE® Brake uses the latest radar technology

For the first time in the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz is complementing this multiple-award-winning anticipatory protection system with the newly developed PRE-SAFE® Brake. This works in combination with Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS), which not only gives the driver visual and audible warnings that he or she is in imminent danger of running into the vehicle ahead, but also automatically calcu-lates the brake pressure required to prevent an accident. This braking assistance is available as soon as the brake pedal is operated. If the driver does not react to the BAS PLUS warnings, the PRE-SAFE® Brake system triggers automatic partial braking if an acute accident risk is detected and decelerates the S-Class with about 40 percent of the maximum braking force. The automatic partial braking provides the driver with another clear signal of the need to take action. If the driver then immediately applies the brakes, the maximum braking force is avail-able and it may be possible – depending on the situation – to avert the accident at the last moment. If an accident is unavoidable, the PRE-SAFE® Brake system re-duces the impact severity and, in turn, the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants.

As with Brake Assist PLUS, the new PRE-SAFE® Brake system also utilises state-of-the-art radar technology to scan the situation in front of the car and detect a potential accident. Two short-range radar sensors with a range of 30 metres and a scanning angle of 80° are located behind the front bumper fascia on the S-Class. The additional long-range radar in the radiator grille has a range of 150 metres. Mercedes-Benz offers BAS PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake system in conjunction with the optional DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system.

DISTRONIC PLUS: even operates in stop-go traffic

The radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS system works in a speed range from 0 to 200 km/h and makes driving even more comfortable. In stop-go traffic, DISTRONIC PLUS keeps the S Class at the right distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically brakes the car to a standstill if necessary and accelerates it back to the pre-programmed speed following intervention by the driver. In this way the assistance system reduces the driver's workload and provides considerable benefits with regard to driver-fitness safety.

The Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS equipment package also includes a radar-based Parking Assist system. The system provides early warning if there is danger of a collision when manoeuvring backwards and forwards.

Night view assist: infrared headlamps for greater safety after dark

Night view assist represents another contribution by Mercedes-Benz to reducing the risk of accidents at night. This system uses infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye and therefore does not dazzle oncoming traffic. Two infrared headlamps illuminate the road, significantly extending the driver's range of vision when on low beam. An infrared camera mounted on the inside of the windscreen picks up the reflected image of the road ahead and displays this in the instrument cluster.

Comprehensive and stylish standard equipment and appointments

Many high-tech systems which increase safety and comfort are standard in the S-Class 4MATIC models. They include the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, second-generation PRE-SAFE®, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, the COMAND system with a DVD player, the DIRECT SELECT gearshift and automatic climate control.

Highlights of the standard equipment list include:

• Adaptive driver and front-passenger airbags
• Adaptive brake light
• AIRMATIC with Adaptive Damping System
• 7G-TRONIC Sport automatic transmission
• Brake Assist
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE
• COMAND system with CD/DVD player and PCMCIA slot
• Diesel particulate filter
• DIRECT SELECT gearshift
• ESP®
• Electric parking brake
• Belt force limiters on front and outer rear seats
• Belt tensioners on all seats
• Automatic climate control
• 17-inch seven-spoke light-alloy wheels
• Multifunction steering wheel
• NECK-PRO head restraints
• Speed-sensitive power steering
• Two-stage rain sensor
• Tyre pressure loss warning system
• Front and rear outer seatbelts with automatic comfort-fit feature
• Sidebags front and rear
• Doorhold
• Front seats with lumbar supports and electric adjustment for height and fore/aft position
• Windowbags
• PRE-SAFE®

The specification of the S 450 4MATIC V8 Saloon includes the following additional features:

• Tinted, sound-insulating, infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round
• 17-inch five-spoke light-alloy wheels

The S 500 4MATIC includes the following additional top-level features:

• Automatically dimming rear-view mirror and driver's side exterior mirror
• Leather upholstery
• Memory package for front seats, steering column and exterior mirrors
• Metallic paintwork
• Heated front seats

The long-wheelbase version of the S-Class includes the following additional features as standard:

• Leather upholstery
• Roller blind for rear window, electrically operated
• Tilting/sliding glass sunroof, electric, with PRE-SAFE® function
• Front passenger seat also electrically adjustable from the rear
• Rear bench seat with electrically adjustable outer seats; outer seats and outer head restraints with PRE-SAFE® positioning function
• Heated front and rear seats

AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels for an even more dynamic character

Two optional packages from Mercedes-AMG – AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels – are also available for the S-Class 4MATIC models. The AMG equipment features give these potent yet elegant top-of-the-line Mercedes models an even greater air of power and authority.

AMG bodystyling, consisting of front and rear aprons and side skirts, is designed in the typical AMG mould: at the front, the restyled bumper with large air intakes, black honeycomb grille and chrome-rimmed fog lamps all add to the sporty theme and give the "made by AMG" S-Class an even wider and lower-slung appearance. The distinctively styled side skirts continue the lines of the front apron and provide a link between it and the rear apron. At the rear, the styling comes to a powerful conclusion in the striking bumper design, with further highlights provided by two large, oval, chromed AMG tailpipes (not for the S 320 CDI 4MATIC).

The sporty theme continues with the new 19 and 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, which are available in two different 5-spoke designs. The high-sheen 19-inch 8.5 x 19 AMG wheels are equipped with 255/40 R 19 wide-base tyres while the titanium-silver-painted 20-inch 8.5 x 20 AMG light-alloy wheels are fitted with 255/35 R 20 tyres. As well as filling the wheel arches perfectly and being decidedly sporty in appearance, the AMG alloy wheels also provide further enhanced handling charac-teristics. AMG bodystyling and the handsome AMG light-alloy wheels are available for all the 4MATIC models and both wheelbase versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

designo: individually tailored range of colours, leather and select woods

The designo range allows Mercedes-Benz customers with particularly demanding tastes to create a highly individual S-Class 4MATIC by choosing from a comprehen-sive collection of paint finishes, leather colours and trim elements. It is a measure of the exclusivity of the designo range that Mercedes-Benz is the only car maker in the world to offer customers a choice of trim elements made from real stone (designo Star Galaxy and designo Labrador blue pearl in the case of the S-Class). Special designo interior appointments packages allow the S-Class to be enhanced with specially selected combinations of designo leather upholstery and designo trim elements. Two different packages are available:

• The designo Edition I equipment package puts the accent on contrast: the very soft pastel yellow designo aniline leather on the seats and armrests combines with trim parts in deep-black high-gloss piano lacquer and the Alcantara roof lining in anthracite to create unusual highlights in a predominantly black interior.
• designo Edition II creates a tasteful lounge atmosphere. This classic combination consists of designo aniline leather upholstery in armagnac, high-class trim parts in designo natural maple grain and the Alcantara roof lining in anthracite.

In both packages, the seats feature distinctive ten-rib vertical fluting, double top-stitching and designo metal badges in the front and rear backrests. The designo equipment packages also include black velour floor mats with edging in black designo leather and designo metal badges.