The recently launched W223 generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class must contend to displaying just a list of six-cylinder engines under its long hood, at least for the time being. A V8 (of course, with mild hybrid 48V assistance) and a plug-in hybrid are incoming, but for now, the S500 six-cylinder acts as the flagship version of the series.
That means anyone who wants to upgrade to the new generation will have to refrain from sporting anything other than an inline-six under the hood. Still, that doesn’t mean the S500 is not up to the task of high-speed cruising on the German Autobahn.
The AutoTopNL channel on YouTube has decided to put its credentials – 435 PS/429 hp and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) - to the test on one of the unrestricted sections of the famous highway. As far as official data is concerned, the Mercedes luxury sedan should be quite adept at hitting 62 mph (100 kph) in 5.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 250 kph (155 mph).
First up, we get to check out the black and chromed example they have for the attempt – this type of POV videos has the customary walkaround even when it comes to older Mercedes models. Then it’s up for the cockpit view, one that is clad in luxury and technology.
We easily noticed that Merc’s new sedan is quite adept at making the driver feel at home with the new setup, one that exudes both elegance and high-tech taste from the get-go. One point to be made is how quiet the cabin becomes once the driver closes the door, with the surrounding traffic becoming unnoticeable.
Even on the road, there’s little to no disturbance from the elements – the gear changes of the nine-speed automatic are smooth as silk and the wind noise is kept to a minimum even when the S500 inevitably exceeds the 200 kph (124 mph) mark. The one thing we do hear is the subtle voice of the six-cylinder from under the hood. It doesn’t disturb, it’s just there enough to make its presence felt in an elegant manner.
The S500 does hit its intended maximum speed of 250 kph (155 mph) with enough ease, and the driver even takes a moment to slam the accelerator pedal for a neat sprint from standstill – just to make sure all the basics have been covered – in less than three minutes.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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