Comfort and driving dynamics attain new level of perfection
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is now available with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. Developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-Benz, this all-new drive system combines perfect traction, first-class comfort and impressive driving dynamics with good fuel economy. Two powerful eight-cylinder models are available in the form of the S 500 4MATIC and S 450 4MATIC while the S 320 CDI 4MATIC is the first S-Class all-wheel-drive variant to be equipped with a particularly economical V6 diesel engine. The new models with all-wheel drive are identified clearly by the 4MATIC legend which appears both on the boot lid and on the wooden trim element on the centre console.
The top model from Mercedes-Benz with the new 4MATIC all-wheel-drive is aimed at drivers whose principal requirement is for a luxury saloon able to cope with all weather conditions with absolute assurance. This need is met by the S-Class 4MATIC models, whose newly developed drive system features a planetary-type centre differential. The permanent, fixed power split between the front and rear wheels in a ratio of 45 to 55 percent guarantees assured and absolutely predictable handling on all road surfaces. An integrated multiplate clutch ensures additional traction and optimum directional stability as soon as the wheels show any sign of slipping. With the support of the ESP®, ASR and 4ETS electronic driving safety systems, the S-Class 4MATIC offers a dynamic, comfortable and safe transport solution, even in adverse road conditions.
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The full article:
http://www.worldcarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2060911.008/country/gcf/mercedes/new-mercedes-4matic-for-s-class
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So, basically, the 4Matic is just as quick as the normal version, while offering the benefits of AWD and barely worse fuel economy. I also vote to bring the S450 here, because some people just don't need 380hp. 335hp is more than adequate, as shown by the A8.
A nifty detail, although not really worth noting, is that, like the S600's V12 badge, the 4Matic S-Class models have the tademark "4Matic" sign etched into the wood in silver finish. Very classy touch.
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