What is the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e?
The Mercedes-Benz S 450 e is the first plug-in hybrid to wear the S-Class badge in India. Moreover, it extends the brand’s powertrain-agnostic line-up, which now spans petrol, electric and hybrid. As a result, buyers can pick the powertrain that suits them best. Furthermore, the car pairs quiet electric driving with petrol range. In short, it targets those who want electric refinement without range anxiety.
How powerful is the S 450 e?
First, a 3.0-litre M256 Evo inline-six turbo-petrol engine, now Euro 7 compliant, makes 326 hp and 540 Nm on its own. In addition, a 120 kW (163 hp) electric motor sits between the engine and the 9-speed 9G-Tronic gearbox. Combined, they deliver 320 kW (435 hp) and 680 Nm. Consequently, the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e beats the petrol S 450 4MATIC’s 280 kW (381 hp) and 500 Nm. Moreover, the car hits 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and tops out at 250 km/h (electronically limited).
What is the electric range of the S 450 e?
A 22 kWh lithium-ion battery gives around 115 km of WLTP electric range. As a result, most city commutes need no petrol at all. Meanwhile, the drivetrain seamlessly switches between electric and petrol, so occupants barely notice. However, for longer trips, the petrol engine steps in on demand. Furthermore, unlike most S-Class variants, the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e is rear-wheel drive only, which favours rear-seat comfort.
What new features does the 2026 S-Class bring?
To begin with, the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e brings over 2,700 new or revised components, the most comprehensive update in a single S-Class generation. Up front, new twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps use micro-LED technology, with a high-beam field roughly 40 per cent larger, reaching up to 600 metres. In addition, the grille has grown by about 20 per cent and now features three-dimensional chrome stars. At the rear, meanwhile, fresh tail-lamps carry three chrome-framed signature stars.
How does MB.OS work in the new S-Class?
First of all, the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) runs the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e, unifying all systems into a single ecosystem. In addition, the standard MBUX Superscreen brings the latest MBUX interface. As a result, drivers can talk to the “Hey Mercedes” assistant, navigate a cleaner Zero Layer menu, and use MBUX Surround Navigation built on Google Maps. Altogether, the system turns everyday interaction into a more intuitive experience.
How does the S 450 e ride and handle?
To start, AIRMATIC air suspension is standard on the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e, as is rear-axle steering at 4.5 degrees. Moreover, buyers can upgrade to 10 degrees, which cuts the turning circle by almost two metres. Consequently, tight car parks and narrow driveways get easier to manage. In addition, using Car-to-X data from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles via the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, the car readies the suspension for speed bumps and rough roads.
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What safety features does the S 450 e offer?
Above all, safety remains central to the new S-Class. Notably, the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e adds up to 15 airbags, a first for the model in India. In addition, an enhanced adaptive restraint system includes PRE-SAFE® Impulse belt pretensioners, which brace occupants before impact. As a result, the car continues the brand’s long focus on passenger protection.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e cost?
To begin with, bookings open today, with deliveries from Q4 2026. The Launch Edition costs INR 2.20 Cr, while the MANUFAKTUR Edition starts at INR 2.38 Cr. In both cases, prices are ex-showroom, all-India. Ultimately, the S 450 e gives top-end buyers an electrified flagship that blends strong performance with everyday electric convenience.
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