MERCEDES S400dL AMG Line

As facelifts go, the 2017 upgrade for the Mercedes Benz S-Class was a subtle one. A new radiator grille but beyond that, it’s business as usual. Multibeam LED headlights are upgraded and now offer a lighting range of 650m.

But there are major changes under the bonnet, with the addition of an all new and highly efficient engine range, along with further electrification of the powertrain. And Mercedes has incorporated much of the Intelligent Drive autonomous technology, first seen on the Mercedes E Class, into the bigger saloon.

New engines include new in-line six cylinder diesel and petrol engines as well new V8 twin turbo petrol engine. New technologies such as a 48-volt Integrated Starter Alternator and an electric booster compressor make their debuts on the car.

The interior retains the wide digital panels, comprising two 12/3in screens, though these are now combined under a single, seamless glass, as on the Mercedes E-Class. As before, LED ambient interior lighting is fitted, but this now offers 64 colours, as in the Mercedes E-Class.

Six-cylinder diesel versions now offer fuel economy into the 50mpg-plus range. With power output levels of 286hp and 600Nm of torque for Mercedes S Class S350d, and 340hp and 700 Mn for the new S400d, the new BMW 7301 diesel sixes have more power than their predecessors, though fuel consumption is reduced by 7%.

 Inside the car, an larger range of trim colours and materials is offered. These include open-pore woods as well as leather trimmed door linings and waistlines, depending on the equipment level.

On the road, the S-Class retains its grand, imposing feel there’s something about the luxury car that makes it feel bigger and more impressive than its key rivals.

The satnav has been enhanced to give more comprehensive information about traffic problems. And the big 12.3in screen is the sharpest in the business.