Mercedes-Benz launches first S-Class plug-in hybrid in India at ₹2.20 crore

Mercedes-Benz India has introduced the S 450 e, bringing a plug-in hybrid option to the S-Class range in India for the first time. The model expands the company’s powertrain portfolio in India, which now includes internal combustion engine (ICE), battery electric vehicle (BEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options.

The S 450 e combines a 3.0-litre M256 Evo inline-six turbo-petrol engine with a 120 kW electric motor integrated into the 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. The petrol engine produces 326 hp and 540 Nm of torque, while the electric motor delivers 163 hp and 440 Nm. The combined system output stands at 320 kW (435 hp) and 680 Nm of torque.

The plug-in hybrid is equipped with a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a WLTP-certified pure electric driving range of around 115 km. Mercedes-Benz stated that this range is intended to cover a significant portion of daily urban commuting requirements. For longer journeys, the vehicle can operate using its petrol engine.

According to the company, the S 450 e can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Unlike other S-Class variants available in India, the S 450 e is offered exclusively with a rear-wheel-drive configuration.

The model comes standard with AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering with a steering angle of 4.5 degrees, which can be upgraded to 10 degrees. Mercedes-Benz also stated that the S 450 e is the first S-Class in India to feature up to 15 airbags. Mercedes-Benz stated that the new S-Class incorporates over 2,700 new or updated components, including the MB.OS operating system, twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps with micro-LED technology, and a redesigned illuminated grille. The headlamps provide a high-beam projection of up to 600 metres.

Bookings for the S 450 e have commenced, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The S 450 e Launch Edition is priced at ₹2.20 crore, while the S 450 e MANUFAKTUR Edition starts at ₹2.38 crore (both prices ex-showroom, India).

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