A new chapter opens for the world’s most success-
ful
S 600 and the S 400 HYBRID, it gives you a sense of orientation in the dark as well as an agreeable sense of space. Narrow bands of light running parallel to the wood trim strips in the doors and instrument panel are a source of indirect lighting. Depending on individual preference and mood, you can sitch between “Solar” (amber), “Neutral” (white) and “Polar” (ice-blue).
The driver and passengers of the S-Class are supported by a number of electronic assistant systems. Lane Keeping Assist is on the lookout in case I inadvertently stray from my lane, while Speed Limit Assist shows me the maximum permitted speed in the cockpit display, and
Active Body Control (ABC) now boasts a further function. The actively controlled chassis includes optional side wind stabilization (standard on the
S 600). The ultrapowerful bi-xenon headlights ensure together with the Intelligent Light System and Adaptive Highbeam Assist (both optional) safe, stress-free nighttime driving. Depending on equipment levels, the light-emitting diodes act as parking lights, turn signals and cornering lights, as well as daytime running lights that are automatically dimmed when the high beam is switched on. 52 LEDs incorporated into the taillights form a double “C” in a striking luminous signature.
The new S 400 HYBRID is the first Mercedes to feature a hybrid drive. It beats with two hearts: the V6 gasoline engine operates alongside an electric unit. The benchmark data of the world’s most frugal gasoline-engined luxury sedan: fuel consumption of 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers (29.7 mpg) and carbon dioxide emissions of 186 grams per kilometer (in the combined New European Driving Cycle).
The hybrid drive plays its trump cards chiefly in
city traffic. Take the start-stop function, for example.
When the car is rolling to a halt, the 6-cylinder engine automatically switches itself off at 15 km/h (9 mph) or less and uses no more fuel. A blip of the accelerator and the electric motor restarts the V6 unit spontaneously and quietly. When the driver takes his foot off the pedal or activates the breaks the motor
acts as a generator and converts kinetic energy into electrical energy in overrun. This energy will be stored within a