Mercedes S-Class S350 (Diesel)

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350d is a epitome of luxury and engineering. Powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six turbo-diesel engine producing 286hp and 600Nm of torque, it is mated to a 9G-Tronic gearbox and features rear-wheel drive. The car boasts an incredibly refined engine, with torque available from as low as 1400rpm, making it effortless to navigate through heavy traffic. The adaptive air suspension ensures a comfortable ride, even over Indias rough roads. Inside, the S350d is a tech fest with large touch screens, excellent camera quality, and advanced park assistance options. The exterior design is elegant, with distinct LED daytime running lights and new taillights. While it may lack some features of the higher-end models, such as rear-wheel steering and certain luxury amenities, it remains a top choice for those seeking supreme comfort and luxury in a sedan.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350d is a masterpiece of luxury and comfort, tailored perfectly for the Indian market. While it may not be as feature-rich as its higher-end siblings, it more than makes up for it with its refined engine, exceptional ride quality, and cutting-edge technology. The 3.0-litre straight-six turbo-diesel engine, though detuned to 286hp and 600Nm of torque, provides more than enough power for a car of its size and weight. The adaptive air suspension ensures a ride that is almost carpet-like, even on Indias challenging roads. However, some may miss the rear-wheel steering and the more spacious boot of other variants. Overall, it remains the best in its class for those who prioritize comfort and luxury.

The S350d is available in India as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) and features a rear-wheel drive (RWD) system, which some drivers prefer for its engaging drive and better handling. This version sheds weight compared to the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model, making it more economical and responsive. I prefer the RWD version for its driving dynamics.

In terms of design, the S350d boasts good looks both inside and out, with a leather-lined interior and large touch screens that enhance the luxury feel. The Hi-Res Digital LED Headlamps provide excellent illumination, and the rear seats can recline up to 43.5 degrees for added comfort. I think the interior design is one of the strongest points of the S350d.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350d, powered by the OM656 Diesel engine, continues to impress with its comfortable ride and advanced technology. The car features air suspension, which is a significant highlight, making the ride exceptionally smooth. The engine, though detuned from the 400d, still delivers 286HP and 600 NM of torque, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer diesel in large cars. I think the air suspension is a game-changer for luxury vehicles like this.

Mercedes-Benz has standardized its platform range, and the S-Class, including the S350d, now rides on the MRA II Architecture. This platform includes features like integral steering and the option of E-Active Body Control, enhancing the overall driving experience. The S350d, specifically, benefits from this advanced platform, offering better handling and stability. I believe this platform upgrade has significantly improved the S-Classs performance and comfort.

The S350d comes with a 9G Tronic gearbox, which provides smooth and precise gear shifts, especially in sport mode. However, there is a slight delay when downshifting two gears at once. Despite this minor issue, the gearbox complements the engine well, making the S350d a pleasure to drive. I find the gearboxs performance to be quite satisfactory for everyday driving.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350d in India is priced competitively, especially considering the luxury and features it offers. The ex-showroom price for the S350d typically starts around Rs 1.5 crore, depending on the region and any customizations. On-road prices can vary significantly due to state-specific taxes and other costs, but you can expect to pay around Rs 1.7 crore to Rs 1.9 crore. This pricing makes it a solid choice for those looking for a luxury sedan without breaking the bank on the higher-end models. The value for money is excellent, given the high-quality materials, advanced technology, and unparalleled comfort it provides.

When it comes to mileage, the S350d is quite efficient for its size and power output. With an ARAI specified fuel efficiency of around 14-15 kmpl, it is more than reasonable for a luxury car. In real-world driving, you can expect to get around 10-12 kmpl in city conditions and up to 15 kmpl on the highway. This makes it a viable option for those concerned about running costs, especially considering the diesel engines better fuel economy compared to petrol counterparts.