The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) is the definitive benchmark for executive luxury in India. It seamlessly integrates a refined diesel and powerful mild-hybrid petrol engine with a chauffeur-focused design, plush interiors, and the latest MBUX technology. Available in the locally assembled, long-wheelbase S 350d and S 450 4MATIC variants, the S-Class delivers unparalleled comfort, sophistication, and cutting-edge driver assistance systems.

This comprehensive review dives into the performance, cabin experience, key features, and real-world relevance for India’s discerning luxury buyers.

Which S-Class Variants Are Available in India (2025)

The current India lineup of the S-Class (W223, long-wheelbase) includes:

Performance & Powertrain: Smooth, Refined, Capable

S 350d (Diesel)

• Engine: 3.0-litre Inline-6 diesel engine.
• Power/Torque (Verified): Approx. 286 bhp and 600 Nm torque.
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive with 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
• Highlight: Exceptional low-end torque for smooth, effortless city and highway driving, providing excellent long-distance efficiency.

S 450 4MATIC (Petrol + Mild-Hybrid + AWD)

• Engine: 3.0-litre Inline-6 turbocharged petrol with EQ Boost (Mild-Hybrid System).
• Power/Torque (Verified): Approx. 367 bhp (Engine) + 22 bhp (EQ Boost) and 500 Nm torque.
• Acceleration (Verified): 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds (Official/Reported). Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
• Drive: 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox, 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
• Highlight: Combines smooth, quiet petrol performance with an instant boost from the mild-hybrid system for immediate responsiveness, enhanced by the traction of AWD.

Design, Dimensions & Presence

The S-Class sold in India is the long-wheelbase version, ensuring maximum rear passenger space.

Interior, Comfort & Technology: Full-Size Luxury Experience

The S-Class cabin is the true headline, optimized for both driver and passenger.

• Infotainment & Control: Features a massive 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D driver display, running the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system with advanced “Hey Mercedes” voice control and a Fingerprint Scanner for driver profile activation.
• Seating & Comfort: The Indian market S-Class typically comes with electrically adjustable rear seats, memory function, and the option for features like Ventilated Seats and Calf Massage depending on the exact package/specification, delivering unparalleled comfort.
• Safety & Driver Assistance (ADAS): The W223 generation features advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) capabilities, including Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for enhanced side-impact protection. The standard offering includes 10-12 airbags and a 360-degree camera with a transparent bonnet function.
• Ambiance: 64-colour LED ambient lighting with active lighting and light strip integration into ADAS warnings.

Real-World Relevance in India: Why S-Class Still Makes Sense

• Local Assembly & Value: Mercedes-Benz was one of the first to locally assemble the S-Class in India, which has resulted in more competitive pricing and faster availability compared to full imports. This is a critical factor for price-sensitive high-end buyers.
• Ride Quality (Air Suspension): The standard AIRMATIC Air Suspension is highly beneficial on varied Indian road conditions, offering supreme ride comfort and the ability to adjust ride height to clear large speed breakers or rough patches.
• Fuel Options & BS-VI 2.0: Offering both a highly efficient diesel (BS-VI 2.0 compliant) and a modern mild-hybrid petrol ensures the S-Class caters to both high-mileage users and those in metro cities with anti-diesel restrictions.
• Flagship Status & Resale: The S-Class maintains a near-unassailable position as the ultimate status symbol, which translates to strong residual value and high prestige in the Indian luxury market.

Which S-Class Variant Should You Choose?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the S-Class

1. Which S-Class variant is best for chauffeur-driven comfort?

The S 350d is the popular choice. The high-torque diesel engine and the RWD setup provide a smooth, efficient, and incredibly relaxed ride, which is ideal for the rear-seat passenger.

2. Is the S 450 petrol engine BS-VI compliant in India?

Yes. Both the S 350d (Diesel) and S 450 4MATIC (Petrol) engines are compliant with the latest BS-VI Phase 2 (BS-6 RDE) emission norms, making them future-ready for the Indian market.

3. What is the verified boot space of the S-Class?

The long-wheelbase S-Class sold in India offers a large and practical 550 litres of boot space.

4. Does the S-Class come with advanced safety features (ADAS)?

Yes, the S-Class is equipped with the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz ADAS features, including Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe safety systems. It is a class leader in safety technology.

5. What is the real-world mileage of the S-Class in India?

• S 350d Diesel: ~10-13 km/l (Real-world mixed usage, with highways offering the higher end).
• S 450 4MATIC Petrol: ~7-9 km/l (Real-world mixed usage).
  Mileage varies significantly based on driving style and traffic conditions.

Verdict: The S-Class Continues to Lead the Pack

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) remains the undisputed king of the luxury sedan segment in India. It perfectly executes the brief: a timeless blend of comfort, state-of-the-art technology, and formidable road presence. For buyers seeking undisputed flagship luxury, the choice is clear.

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