It was a big deal when the Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrived in Malaysia as a hybrid in 2014. Still remember the S 400 Hybrid?
Fast forward to today, and the S 400 Hybrid is no more, to be replaced by a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with all the advancements that comes with it. No more petrol-only versions, which is all part of Mercedes' electrification move for the long term.
In the larger context, plug-in hybrids from the Stuttgart car maker are not going away any time soon despite what it said in 2021 that it is stopping the development of PHEVs to focus resources on pure electric vehicles (EVs).
Amid the global slowdown in EV sales (with the exception of South-East Asia), Mercedes-Benz walked back its enthusiasm for EVs earlier this year, saying that plug-in hybrid and electric cars are now projected to account for 50% of total sales by 2030 "where market conditions allow."
This means it will continue making cars with internal combustion engines well into the 2030s as it faces the harsh reality its EQE and EQS are not selling as well as it expected.
Recently, German newspaper Handelsblatt reported that Mercedes-Benz had decided to cancel the MB.EA platform that was meant as the next dedicated electric car platform for future EQE and EQS sedans and SUVs. The new platform was supposed to be introduced in 2028.
Mercedes-Benz has not responded to the Handelsblatt report.
So the long and short of it is that PHEVs are here to stay for a good number of years.
Now back to the PHEV in hand.
The latest S Class, in S 580 e form, is in its seventh generation and has been on sale locally for the past two years. We get the long wheelbase version as is standard practice for years now.
Because it's locally assembled, the price of the V223 S-Class has levelled off at around RM719,000, making it relatively more "affordable" than if it were fully imported.
It also means a few items are not offered for the S-Class in the Malaysian market. No rear-wheel steering or advanced active body control beyond the air springs, no all-wheel drive 4Matic, no DC fast charging and no ventilated front seats.
Despite these shortcomings, this S-Class is still an attractive package as we will get into shortly.
As a status symbol, the S 580 e looks the part. It has a classic sedan profile with short front overhangs, a long wheelbase, and a proportionate rear overhang, creating a visually appealing and aerodynamic profile. Its Cd value of 0.22 makes it one of the most streamlined luxury cars on the market.
This efficiency is further enhanced by its muscular stance, wide track, and flush-mounted wheels. Upfront, the iconic radiator grille and LED headlights exude a commanding presence, while the rear features slim-cut LED lights and a long chrome bar, adding a touch of elegance.
The bonnet hides a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine, generating 367hp and 500Nm of torque. It's paired with an electric motor producing 150hp and 440Nm of torque, resulting in a combined system output of 503hp and 750Nm to the rear wheels.
Such numbers catapult the car from 0-100kph in just 5.2 seconds, and the PHEV can keep going until 250kph.
The hybrid system taps into a 28.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a useful all-electric range of up to 100km. AC charging at up to 11kW from 0-80% takes under three hours.
The battery eats up space in the boot, which is small at 350l, considering this is a full-size sedan.
The S 580 e follows the S-Class script by striving to elevate luxury and comfort levels with every iteration.
The interior design emphasises elegance, high quality, and a sense of spaciousness. The dashboard features a modern architecture with ergonomic displays, including a 12.8-inch OLED central display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument panel.
The seats are plush and wrapped in nappa leather. Front seats offer multiple adjustments for comfort and safety, while the rear ones include heating, ventilation, and a calf massage function.
The best place to be driven in, as always in an S-Class, is the left one in second row. While both rear outer seats can recline, the left one adds calf support and lets the user move the front passenger forward for extra legroom, ensuring a first-class experience.
However, the interior is not without its flaws. The reflections of the shiny air conditioning vents (now positioned higher up compared to the V222 model) on the windshield and windows in bright sunlight can be distracting to the driver. Wearing polarised shades reduces the effect somewhat.
In addition, the large piano black surfaces on the centre console and inserts are notorious for attracting dust and fingerprint smudges, detracting slightly from the overall look and feel of the cabin.
As the flagship model, the S 580 e is packed with advanced technology. The Digital Light headlamps provide highly precise light distribution, and the car features a 360-degree camera system, park assist, and adaptive air suspension.
The MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation system integrates graphical navigation instructions into live images, ensuring safe and stress-free driving.
Safety is exceptionally high, with the Driving Assistance package offering features like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, and lane centring assist. The car is equipped with 14 airbags, including innovative rear frontal airbags and beltbags, minimising danger to occupants.
Get behind the wheel and the S 580 e shows itself to be a car that deftly delivers smoothness, power, and refined handling, thanks to the switch to a straight six engine that is well known for such qualities.
The air suspension system delivers an exceptionally smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease and providing a fluid, comfortable journey. The thick cabin insulation ensures that road and wind noise are kept to a minimum, allowing for a serene driving environment.
The hybrid powertrain offers a seamless blend of electric and combustion power.
The changeover between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine is generally competent, although one may notice slight jerks during regenerative braking transitions. The regenerative braking system, which can be controlled via paddle shifters, helps to recharge the battery while providing effective deceleration.
In electric mode, the S 580 e moves along silently, offering a peaceful driving experience, especially in urban settings. The 100km electric range is practical for daily commutes, allowing drivers to use the car as a pure electric vehicle for short trips.
The combined power and torque of engine/electric motor provides ample power for quick acceleration and effortless cruising - complemented by a 9-speed automatic transmission.
In sport mode, the suspension stiffens, the steering becomes heavier, and the engine produces a muted growl, making the S 580 e surprisingly fun to drive.
Handling is another strong suit of the car. Despite its size and weight, the S 580 e remains composed and stable, even at high speeds. The precise steering and well-tuned suspension allow for confident cornering and a reassuring driving experience.
Although there's no rear wheel steering, parking the car or making low-speed manoeuvres isn't hard, aided by a high-resolution 360-degree camera system that provides excellent visibility.
The S 580 e sets a high standard in the luxury sedan segment, melding performance, luxury and advanced technology.
The PHEV's impressive all-electric range, comprehensive safety features, and luxurious interior make it a persuasive choice for those seeking the pinnacle of automotive innovation and comfort.
Nothing's perfect. While there are some areas for improvement, the S 580 e remains a star performer in its class.
Maximum power: 367hp at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 500Nm at 1,600rpm
Electric motor: 147hp and 440Nm, single motor
Combined power: 503hp
Combined torque: 750Nm
Battery capacity & type: 28.6kWh, lithium-ion
Electric range: 100km (WLTP)
Charger type: Type 2 (AC)
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Features: 14 airbags, rear-wheel drive, soft close doors & boot, panoramic tilt & slide sunroof, 4-zone climate control, Digital Light, autonomous braking system, lane keeping assist with steering correction, collision warning, Pre-Safe, Pre-Safe Impulse Side, driver attention monitor with eye tracking, auto start/stop, 360-degree reverse camera, navigation, adaptive cruise control with steering assist, stop and go and speed limit assist, full LED taillamps, LED daytime running lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, powered rear windscreen and rear door window sunshades, front and rear wireless chargers, 12.8-inch Oled touchscreen MBUX with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and augmented reality navigation; 11-inch rear entertainment displays; 7-inch rear Android tablet; 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system, rear wireless headsets
Fuel Consumption (combined, official): 8.7-7.6 l/100km
Normal charging (AC): 11kW, 0-100% in 2 hours 17 mins
Suspension (front & rear): Multi-link with Airmatic air suspension
Acceleration (0-100kph): 5.2s
Top speed: 250kph
Kerb weight: 2,385kg
Boot capacity: 350l
Price: RM718,888 (OTR without insurance)
