Mercedes-Benz S-Class S63 2011 Review
Benz brings extra efficiency and bigger bang to S-Class ranks, with improved V6 diesel and range-topping AMG V8 biturbo petrol enginesLocal Launch
Bendigo, Victoria
What we liked
>> Super-efficient, super-smooth diesel option
>> Stop/start on S63
Additions promised for the already-loaded S-Class arrive in this 2011 update. Three new engine options including a revised diesel are the biggest news, especially when matched to better fuel economy and high power and torque figures.
The V6 diesel variant boasts a combined-cycle consumption figure of 7.0L/100km. Now badged 'BlueTEC', rather than CDI, the new diesel replaces the outgoing version which used 7.7L. The improvement means the entry model S-Class, starting at $213,428, is partially exempt from the luxury car tax (LCT), which allows a dispensation for luxury vehicles priced over $58K and using 7.0 litres or less fuel per 100km.
The 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel S 350 BlueTec produces 190kW/620Nm; up from 173kW/540Nm for the CDI version. The BlueEFFICIENCY V6 petrol version (from $220,650) has also received an update: the engine's 'vee' is now at 60-degrees -- as-used by the upcoming C300 -- replacing the 90-degree version. Output is up from 200kW to 225kW and torque increases from 350 to 370Nm. Consumption rating is improved at 9.0L/100km, down from 9.8.
AMG's S 63 (from $392,900) now packs the 5.5-litre biturbo V8. Despite reduced displacement compared to the esteemed 6.2-litre AMG V8, the biturbo whips the naturally aspirated version with 400kW and 800Nm. The 5.5 is also more efficient than the previous V8, using 10.6L/100km. Auto start/stop is included as standard.
The biturbo V8 is mated to an AMG-only seven-speed transmission called dubbed Speedshift MCT with wet start-up clutch (a la SL63 and E 63) while the S 350 diesel and petrol models use M-B's well-working 7G Tronic; also (as the name implies) a seven-speeder but a very different -- cleverer, even smoother and more responsive -- gearbox.
We drove the S 350 BlueTec and S 63 AMG models during the launch. In the former case, we managed 8.2L/100km over a drive route including rural and highway miles. Power is on tap and the ample torque moves the S-Class' two-tonne bulk with ease -- brilliant for overtaking duties and polishing off hills.
The BlueTec model is also impressive in the acceleration stakes and only at idle does it sound like a diesel, having a throaty growl in its upper reaches. The seven-speed is responsive if left to its own devices, or the paddle-shift can be used for 'instantaneous' results. The S-Class also has switchable engine/transmission characteristics: our 8.2L result was after most time in 'Sport' mode.
AMG's biggest missile is kept balanced via the standard-fit Active Body Control (adjustable) suspension. Even in Sport mode the S63's ride is good blend of firmness and comfort, and in the handling stakes it behaves like a smaller saloon -- say, the well-acquitted E-Class -- in sweepers and even during tight cornering, without body roll and the long rear is kept in check...
It's easy to forget you're hauling around a super-sized sedan.
Safety hasn't been forgotten in this latest update with lane and blind spot assistance now standard range-wide. The lane assistance is unobtrusive, applying smooth braking at the front wheels to bring the car back into line, and the blind spot system offers visual and audio warning.
The S63 rolls on 20-inch five-spoke wheels but we didn't notice additional road noise while travelling in the S 350, equipped with 18-inch alloys. The larger wheels also do a lot for the big Benz's appearance, turning it from looking like an airport limo to corporate jet.
Luxury upgrades are available to suit, including rear seating with heating/cooling and adjustable, memorised settings.
M-B's interior design is arguably due for a restyle -- most attention of late has been dedicated to its models' exteriors -- but return customers and/or those familiar with the brand's offerings will feel at home in the updated S-Class.
Like this and all Benz models, the dash and instrumentation is well laid out and driver access to vehicle controls is via the usual, sensible format... Stay tuned, however, for M-B's latest in its COMAND (online access) system and its likely appearance in upcoming S models.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
