2017 Mercedes S-Class Facelift: 3 Key Model Highlights

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift arrives as a refined evolution of an already legendary flagship sedan, blending subtle exterior updates with transformative powertrain improvements and unmatched interior opulence. This model year emphasizes seamless refinement, introducing a new inline-six diesel engine that outshines its predecessor in smoothness and power delivery, while upholding the S-Class’s reputation for unparalleled ride comfort and technological prowess.

Exterior Refinements: Subtle Yet Striking Evolution

Mercedes opted for evolutionary changes rather than radical redesigns, ensuring the 2017 S-Class retains its imposing stature while appearing fresher. The front fascia features a bolder grille with increased chrome accents, redesigned bumpers, and slimmer LED headlights sporting a distinctive three-bar signature that signals its position atop the Mercedes hierarchy—above the single-bar C-Class and dual-bar E-Class. These updates make the sedan look taller and more commanding from afar, enhancing its road presence without alienating existing fans.

At the rear, new bumpers and taillights contribute to a cohesive update, while options like the Emerald Green metallic paint add visual flair. The long-wheelbase variant, ideal for chauffeured duties, stretches legroom without compromising the car’s balanced proportions. Overall, these tweaks modernize the silhouette, making it stand out against rivals like the BMW 7 Series or Audi A8.

Powertrain Innovations: The Rise of the Straight-Six Diesel

Central to the facelift is the replacement of the previous V6 diesel with a new 3.0-liter inline-six unit in the entry-level S 350 d. This engine delivers enhanced power, smoother operation, and near-silent refinement, with only a faint idle rattle that often mimics the stop-start system’s engagement. Producing ample torque for effortless highway cruising, it pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission in select models, ensuring precise shifts and efficiency.

Higher trims like the S 400 d and S 560 introduce further six- and eight-cylinder options, promising a mechanical thrum over diesel clatter, elevating the auditory experience. These powerplants exemplify Mercedes’ modular engine family, set to proliferate across the lineup, prioritizing refinement suitable for a car dubbed ‘the best in the world’. Fuel economy remains competitive, though real-world figures depend on driving style and load.

This table highlights core variants, showcasing the diesel focus for European markets while petrol options cater to broader preferences.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Meets Competence

Despite its luxury focus, the S-Class surprises with engaging dynamics. The air suspension masterfully absorbs imperfections—potholes vanish without floatiness—while Magic Body Control uses a forward-facing camera to preemptively adjust for road anomalies, creating a near-levitated glide. On twisty roads, accurate steering and minimal body roll inspire confidence, proving it’s no mere plush barge.

• Exceptional ride isolation: Soaks up British B-roads effortlessly.
• Balanced handling: Resistant to roll, responsive steering.
• Autonomous aids: Level 2 capability with Distronic Plus and lane-keeping.

Steering is light yet precise, augmented by semi-autonomous features that subtly guide the car, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. It’s a sedan that prioritizes rear-seat serenity but rewards enthusiastic pilots.

Interior Excellence: A Sanctuary of Sophistication

Step inside, and the S-Class reveals its true mastery: a cabin of sumptuous leather, premium wood, and metallic accents that eclipse even the E-Class. Materials feel otherworldly, with ambient lighting now offering more hues and configurations for personalized moods. Energizing Comfort integrates climate control, massaging seats, fragrance diffusers, and curated soundscapes for holistic wellbeing.

Front seats boast multicontour adjustments, ventilation, heating, and up to six massage programs—including hot stone simulation. Rear passengers in the long-wheelbase model enjoy vast legroom, reclining seats, pop-out tables, fridges, and optional entertainment screens. Standard luxuries like wireless charging, push-button start, and a 115-volt outlet underscore its flagship status.

Infotainment centers on dual high-res screens with intuitive touchpads and voice controls, complemented by Air Balance for cabin purification. Build quality is impeccable, fostering a cocoon-like escape.

Technology Leadership: Pioneering the Future

The S-Class remains a tech vanguard, packing Level 2 autonomy with adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and predictive suspension. Safety suites include collision prevention and fatigue detection. Nine-speed autos in S550 models enhance smoothness. From remote app start to Magic Sky Control roof, innovations abound, setting benchmarks for luxury sedans.

Practicality and Ownership Considerations

Trunk space lags rivals at 12-16 cubic feet, feeling compact for the class. Pricing starts high, reflecting premium features, with long-wheelbase models emphasizing chauffeur use. Maintenance via Mercedes’ network ensures reliability, though costs mount. Consumer ratings praise styling and comfort (85% recommend), critiquing value.

Competitive Landscape: How It Stacks Up

Against the BMW 7 Series’ sportiness or Audi A8’s tech, the S-Class excels in holistic luxury. It’s the chauffeur’s choice, blending isolation with subtle driver appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the 2017 S-Class facelift special?

The inline-six diesel, refined ride, and Energizing Comfort system elevate it above predecessors.

Is the new engine quieter?

Yes, it’s exceptionally refined with minimal noise, ideal for luxury cruising.

How comfortable is the rear seat?

Immense legroom, massage functions, and optional luxuries make it limo-like.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Diesels offer strong efficiency, around 30-40 mpg combined, varying by model.

Any major drawbacks?

High price and modest trunk space are noted cons.