The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet models will soon receive technical updates from the facelifted sedan model which was introduced earlier this year. In addition, the AMG performance models – the S63 and S65 Coupe and Cabriolet models respectively, will also receive a host of technical and visual improvements.
Among the highlights are the extended driver assistance systems, the modern control and display concept with Widescreen Cockpit, a new generation steering wheel, and the latest infotainment systems.
Aesthetically, the non-AMG models now receive a new front bumper with chrome-plated front splitter and larger air inlets. The flanks are updated with restyled side skirts and chrome-plated twin tailpipe trims now feature at the rear.
Versions with the AMG Line trim gain a more dynamic appearance with new bumper designs – the front bumper gets enlarged air inlets lined with a pair of chrome-plated fins each.
Both the S-Class Coupe and Cabrio models now receive OLED (Organic-LED) tail lamps fitted as standard – these feature thin layers of organic materials, printed on a glass plate and made to illuminate. A total of 66 ultra-flat OLEDs are fitted within the tail lamp.
On the inside, Mercedes have introduced three new trim inserts (High-Gloss Brown Burl Walnut, Satin-finish Ash Grey and Designo Magnolia) as well as one new upholstery option – Designo Porcelain/Tizian Red Nappa leather.
Two 12.3-inch high-resolution display screens merge under one shared glass cover to create the ‘Widescreen Cockpit’ – the digital display offers three different visual styles: Classic, Sporty, and Progressive. Alongside certain menu contents, such as trip data or fuel consumption, the driver can now additionally view the navigation data or the ‘ECO’ display in the instrument cluster.
Both models have ‘Touch Control Buttons’ on the steering wheel that respond to swiping motions like the screen of a smartphone. They enable the driver to control the functions of the instrument cluster, additionally, the ‘Distronic’ and cruise control functions can now be operated directly on the steering wheel. The ‘Distronic’ proximity assist and Active-Steering Assist functions have also been improved for smoother operation – with considerably greater use of map and navigation data.
The latest-generation Comand Navigation offers fast ‘3D hard-disc’ navigation with topographical map display, photo-realistic 3D buildings and 3D map rotations like the sedan model. Near Field Communication, part of the Comand allows a smartphone to be used as a digital vehicle key. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also compatible with the updated Comand System.
Also new is the ‘Energizing Comfort’ suite, which links various systems within the cabin, such as climate control, ambient lighting, massage and fragrancing functions to further enhance the physical comfort of the occupants. Up to six programs are offered, each program runs for ten minutes and is visualized on the head unit with colour graphics, backed by a selection of pre-programmed music.
The S-Class Coupe model will be offered with four power plant choices, while the Cabriolet will receive three engine variants when they go on sale mid-2018.
The S-Class Coupe range starts off with the S450 4Matic which features 3.0-litre naturally-aspirated V6 which produces 367hp and 500Nm of torque. The S450 4Matic sends power to all-four wheels through Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic automatic and is equipped with a new ‘gliding function’ which decouples the engine from the drivetrain under certain conditions to allow the vehicle to coast. The S450 is claimed to go from standstill to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds.
The S560 4Matic which also serves as the point-of-entry for the S-Class Cabrio range, uses a detuned version of a Mercedes-AMG developed 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8, capable of producing 469hp and 700Nm. The Coupe model also features cylinder-deactivation technology, to further improve fuel economy. Performance figures are identical in the Coupe and Cabrio models with the 0-100km/h dash completed in 4.6 seconds.
As for the Mercedes-AMG performance models, both the Coupe and Cabrio models are offered with as the S63 4Matic+ and S65 models respectively.
The S63 is now powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 (downsized from 5.5-litres) which is tuned to produce 612hp and 900 Nm between 2750 and 4500rpm. Power output is up 35hp but torque numbers are identical to the pre-facelifted model. The engine is mated to the AMG Speedshift 9-speed multi-clutch automatic, featuring a Launch Control function. Power is sent to all-four wheels through AMG’s 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system.
Both the S63 4MATIC+ Coupe and Cabrio are claimed to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds, onto a limited top speed of 250km/h.
The S65 AMG flagship Coupe and Cabriolet models are powered by the mammoth 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12, which produces 630hp and a whopping 1000 Nm between 2300-4300rpm. This engine is mated to the older AMG 7-speed twin-clutch gearbox which sends power exclusively to the rear wheels. There is no increase in output for the S65 Coupe and Cabrio models.
Despite the higher power output, the S63 4Matic+ beats the S65 in the century sprint, which (both Coupe and Cabrio) require 4.1 seconds. Like the S63, the S65’s top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, although the S63 and S65 Coupe and Cabrio models respectively, will readily hit 300km/h if specified with the AMG Driver’s Package.
Visually, the Mercedes-AMG models now feature the ‘Panamericana’ radiator grille to set them apart from non-AMG models. Along the flanks, new forged light-alloy rims, measuring 19-inches for the S63 Coupe and Cabrio and 20-inches on the S 65 Coupé and Cabriolet. Round the back – an updated rear apron with diffuser insert is flanked by AMG twin-tailpipe exits.
Elsewhere, the ‘Race Start’ function available in the S 63 4Matic+ Coupe and Cabrio, has been simplified – when in Sport and Sport+ modes, the driver simply mashes the brake pedal while simultaneously pressing the accelerator to prompt the car’s electronics to modulate the optimum engine speed for rapid launches.
The new S-Class Coupe & Cabriolet models respectively will celebrate their world premiere at the upcoming 2017 Frankfurt International Auto Show.
Keyword: Frankfurt 2017: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe And Cabrio Facelift To Receive Updated Tech From Sedan