Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2022: V8-powered S580 L set to arrive in Australia this year

Mercedes-Benz has announced the V8-power S580 L will join the existing six-cylinder models when it arrives in Australia towards the end of 2021.

The new S-Class is currently offered in S450 and S450 L guise, with the later a long wheelbase version that adds 110mm, and all come with a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

The S580 L is available only in long wheel-base form and will make its entrance into Australia in the fourth quarter of this year alongside the V12-powered Mercedes-Maybach S680.

Sitting under the bonnet of the S580 L is a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine developing 370kW of power and 700Nm of torque, offering a healthy gain over the S450’s 270kW/500Nm outputs from its 3.0L single-turbo six-cylinder engine.

Coupled to this engine for the first time is a 48-volt second-generation 48-volt mild hybrid system that can boost outputs by 15kW/200Nm for short periods of time.

The hybrid system sits between the V8 engine and a Mercedes’ versatile nine-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, which then leads out to the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.

Building on the specification offered on the S450, the S580 L arrives with Nappa Leather upholstery as standard along with the new heads-up display system with clever augmented reality functions, that allows the car to directly project directions onto the road when using the navigation system.

Also standard is the fitment of specialised glass which suppresses both unwanted sound and infrared light and heat inside the cabin.

Those riding in the front will also appreciate the addition of the Active Multi-Contour seat package, which adds adjustable air chambers within the front seats for added adjustability and massage functions.

Available as an optional extra is the active suspension system that harnesses the 48-volt system and uses 20 different sensors to ready the road and your driving to provide better body control and a more comfortable ride.

While a 15-speaker Burmester sound system is already a standard fit, buyers can also opt for the 4D surround sound system that steps the count up to a whopping 31 speakers with more than double the power at 1750 watts.

With the S580 L designed as a limousine, buyers will also appreciate the standard fitment of power adjustability in the rear seats along with a memory function along with additional airbags placed in the back of the rear seats for additional front-facing protection.

Mercedes-Benz says prices for the S580 L will start at $329,900 before on-road costs, with buyers able to order the model in the third quarter of 2021 with deliveries expected to take place towards the end of the year.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2021: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• S450: $240,700
• S450 L: $264,900
• S580 L: $329,900
• S680 (Maybach): $565,800