Mercedes-Benz has launched in India the new S 450e, marking the arrival of the first-ever plug-in hybrid version of the flagship S-Class in the country. The carmaker has said that the model combines the comfort and prestige of the S-Class with electrified driving technology, while also introducing the most comprehensive update ever made within a single S-Class generation.
The new S 450e is powered by a 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 435 hp and 680 Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz claims the sedan can travel up to 115 km on pure electric power under WLTP testing standards, making it suitable for most daily urban commutes without using the combustion engine. The luxury limousine accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Beyond the powertrain, the updated S-Class receives over 2,700 new or revised components. Key highlights include new DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps with micro-LED technology, a larger illuminated grille, the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), and an upgraded MBUX infotainment system featuring AI-powered voice assistance and Google Maps-based navigation.
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Mercedes-Benz has also focused on ride comfort and safety. The S 450e comes standard with AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering, while safety equipment includes up to 15 airbags, a first for the S-Class in India.
Commenting on the launch, Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, said the introduction of a plug-in hybrid S-Class reflects growing customer demand for electrified luxury vehicles and supports the brand’s flexible powertrain strategy, which now includes internal combustion, electric and plug-in hybrid options.
Bookings for the S 450e have opened, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Prices start at ₹2.20 crore (ex-showroom) for the Launch Edition, while the MANUFAKTUR Edition is priced from ₹2.38 crore.