Mercedes S 580 e 4Matic evaluation: Ultimate mixture

Mercedes is betting extra on the PHEV card within the new technology S-Class, providing a minimum of 4 variations and, for the primary time, all-wheel drive mixed with the PHEV drive system. Within the check, the prolonged wheelbase model of Mercedes S 580 e 4Matic.

Photograph: Bogdan Paraschiv

For Excessive-end fashions, all-wheel drive and Plug-in hybrid are the perfect combos on this transition to the electrical period, as they supply emission-free mobility and respectable electrical vary in crowded cities, lengthy driving ranges with the Plug-In drive for lengthy journeys, and the correct dynamics due to the electrical motor. That’s why one of these powertrain is an ideal match for the S-Class, and Mercedes provides a minimum of 4 variations, truly seven in the event you rely each brief and lengthy physique kinds: S 450 e, S 580 e/S 580 e 4Matic (all three with brief and lengthy wheelbase) and the flagship AMG S 63 E Efficiency (P3 hybrid system with electrified rear axle).

We examined the Mercedes S 580 e 4Matic PHEV, obtainable for the primary time as an all-wheel drive. The S 580 e 4Matic replaces the previous S 560 e, however the variations are important. Along with all-wheel drive, which has not been obtainable earlier than, the brand new mannequin comes with a a lot bigger battery with greater than double the capability (28.6 kWh in comparison with 13.5 kWh gross) that guarantees a greater than double WLTP electrical vary of 94 to 113 km (58-70 miles) in comparison with 50 km (31 miles) earlier than.

Mercedes has additionally finished a lot work on the rear suspension, which is extra compact, and its arms are 27 mm (1.06 in) decrease. So whereas we now have all-wheel drive, the a lot bigger battery could possibly be mounted extra down, and the boot flooring now not has that threshold that made it troublesome to load the boot optimally. The 350-liter (21,358 cu in) boot quantity isn’t any larger than the outdated technology, however the boot’s form is common and extra sensible.

A 3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine works underneath the bonnet as a substitute of the outdated V6 with the identical displacement, creating the identical energy and torque of 367 ps (362 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft), respectively. However, the electrical motor is extra highly effective, with 150 ps (148 hp) in comparison with 122 ps (120 hp)  earlier than.

Very environment friendly within the Hybrid ModeWe hit the street with the battery 85% charged and chosen Electrical mode. We drove round city for 65 km till the battery was totally discharged. Contemplating the 85% cost share at first, this provides an electrical vary of about 76 km (47 miles), with a consumption of 33 kWh/100 km. That’s greater than double the outdated determine of round 33 km (20,5 miles) however beneath the promised minimal of 94 km (58 miles). There is no such thing as a Cost mode, however the battery might be charged on the go utilizing Sport mode. The check automotive additionally had the 600 euro ($645) choice of the DC charging socket, Mercedes being the one one to supply DC charging on PHEV fashions. So in 20 minutes, the battery prices from 0 to 80%.

With the battery discharged, the power consumption was greater than respectable at 12.6 l/100 km (18.6 mpg). As soon as the battery was charged, I switched to Hybrid mode and had low consumption relative to the ability stage: 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 mpg) and eight.8 kWh/100 km. The conclusion is just one: the promised electrical vary is a bit too optimistic, however in Hybrid mode, the automotive consumes little or no and is very environment friendly. A B mode (Battery Maintain) permits the battery power to be conserved for later use. In Hybrid mode, the warmth engine harmonizes very properly with the electrical motor positioned within the 9-speed computerized gearbox. The change from one mode to a different is seamless, with refinement at its best.

Additionally gone is the stress level on the accelerator pedal that alerts you to not press above a sure stage in the event you don’t need to begin the standard engine. Now, in Electrical mode, in the event you don’t instantly use the kick-down, you’ll drive pure electrical in any state of affairs and may attain 140 kph (87 mph). Getting by means of heavy site visitors with out emissions and noise is refreshing and eco-friendly. The combustion engine doesn’t make a lot noise when operating, due to the distinctive soundproofing with sound-insulated laminated glass and foam insulation tires. At excessive acceleration, solely a pleasing low background noise is heard.

With adaptive air suspension as customary, the S 580 e 4Matic runs like on a cushion of air, and in comparison with the beforehand examined S 580 4Matic with 21-inch wheels, the PHEV model is softer tuned and even in Sport mode prioritizes consolation. The 4.5-degree-angle all-wheel steering fitted to the check automotive helps to deal with tight areas and corners, however in sporty driving, you are feeling the slight inertia of the rear axle due to the 241 kg (531 lbs) battery positioned above the rear axle.

At 140,420 euro ($151,205), the S 580 e 4Matic prices a small fortune, being at virtually the identical stage just like the EQS 580 4Matic (141,705 euro/$152,387), which has a decrease end high quality. With out a single sq. inch of plastic, and never simply because we had been impressed by the optionally available Manufaktur trim, the S-Class has a timeless magnificence, a sense not but touched by the EQS.