2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to front new engine line-up

The revised Mercedes-Benz S-class introduces a new range of in-line six-cylinder engines...

...the first for the German car maker since it adopted V6 units back in 1997

The new in-line engines, which are set to find their way into other models, share their architecture with Mercedes’ existing range of four-cylinder engines...

They are planned to be introduced in diesel form first when UK sales of the updated S-class get underway later this year.

The heavily related petrol unit, which comes combined with a new 48-volt electric system that allows it to run both an electric booster compressor an integrated starter generator as part of a mild hybrid drivetrain strategy aimed at netting greater performance and reduced fuel consumption, is then set to follow in 2018, according to Mercedes

The line-up – yet to be confirmed for the UK - includes the S350d and S400d which both use the turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine in two states of tune, and develop 207bhp and 336bhp respectively

Further up the line-up, the updated S63 eschews the twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine of its predecessor for the most powerful iteration of AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powerplant. Power has increased by 26bhp to 612bhp, with torque remaining the same as previously at 663lb ft

The performance saloon is set to hit 62mph from standstill in just 3.5sec, beating its predecessor by 0.5sec

The range-topping S65 continues to run a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 delivering 621bhp and stout 737lb ft of torque

Further models will be introduced in 2018, including replacements for the S300h, S400as well as the upmarket V12-powered S600 and S650 Maybach models

The facelifted S-class is visually distinguished by a series of subtle exterior styling changes, including new look grilles across the range...

...revised headlamps featuring a distinctive new three stripe LED day time running light graphic, re-profiled bumpers and altered crystal effect tail lamps

Inside, there are revised digital instrument and infotainment monitors offering the choice between classic, sporty and progressive themes

A new touch sensitive controls for the infotainment system as well as revised cruise control system controls within a redesigned steering wheel, a wireless smart phone charging option and new LED lighting offering up to 64 different interior colour themes all feature

In a first, the new S-class also offers so- called energising comfort control – an new optional system that networks the air conditioning, fragrance feature, massaging seats, lighting and sound system to boost comfort and driver well- being across six programmes: freshness, warmth, vitality, joy, comfort and training

On sale in October, Mercedes UK is likely to ditch the entry-level SE trim as 80% of current sales are AMG Line. Prices will increase slightly over the entry-level AMG Line model, the 350d, which starts from £71,585