CATS launches Mercedes-Benz S-Class: 455hp, 100kph in 4.8 seconds, P9.98M

CATS launches the Mercedes-Benz S-Class at Peninsula Manila. Photo by Alvin Uy

CATS Motors, Philippine distrubitor of Mercedes-Benz, has launched the all-new S-Class sedan, barely two months after Asian premier in China. Following the company’s slogan of “the best or nothing, the new S flagship model promises superior driver and passenger comfort. Its interior is the ultimate in electric gadgetry, with more than 100 motors and actuators in the cabin.

The new car debuts in its long-wheelbase version, as this is the preferred version in Asia. The development of the S-Class focused on the long-wheelbase car.

The new interior features a display meant to appear as free-floating, with ‘corona effect’ ambiance backlighting. The ‘gauges’ are actually a pair of high-res 30.7cm displays, showing driving information and secondary comfort and convenience data. The rear seats can recline without affecting headroom, by up to 43 degrees. Calf support is adjustable as well. Mercedes produces the seats for E and S-Class in house, rather than having them made by a supplier, to maintain the desired quality and durability.

A first is the new ‘active perfuming system’ capable of wafting a chosen scent in the interior. These include the ‘Freeside’ (citrus), ‘Nightlife’ (woody), ‘Downtown’ (floral), and ‘Sports’ (leafy and flowery).  A 24-speaker Burmester 3D surround system audio, with 1540 watts, is available. The S-Class is the first production car to use all LEDs for its lighting.

The car’s electronic driver aids can help compensate for crosswind gusts, as well as provide adaptive cruise control. The car can stop itself if it detects obstacles. The Stop & Go Pilot semi-autonomous driving system can follow the vehicle ahead while in a traffic ham, even when there are no lane markings. Notably, suitably-equipped S-Class sedans can drive autonomously, taking over steering and acceleration-deceleration from the driver.

The S500 is the first model available. Power comes from a turbocharged gasoline V8 engine with 455hp and 700Nm of torque. Acceleration is an eye-watering 4.8 seconds to 100kph, while top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph. The new S500 retails for 9.98 million.