First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, S-Class Hybrid

Stuttgart, Germany - Mercedes-Benz has given its ultra luxury S-Class model range a mild facelift for 2010, added a bunch of new and improved technology and introduced the first gas-electric hybrid vehicle to use a lithium-ion battery.

When they go on sale later this year (late summer or early fall), the 2010 models will be differentiated by revised front and rear treatments that feature LEDs in the headlights, turn signals, taillights and some that illuminate the rear license plate. There is also a new exterior mirror design and the exhaust pipes are now integrated into the rear bumper. Inside, the seats have been revised, the steering wheel updated, the armrest re-designed and ambient lighting upgraded with three colour choices. With one new exception, engine and drivetrain choices are a carry-over from 2009

If that was all there was to it, we could just show you the photos and take the rest of the afternoon off. The real story behind this mid-cycle update is technological and it is so significant that it is worth reading on

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First Li-Ion battery hybrid. It'll be interesting to see how it performs.

 

First Li-Ion battery hybrid. It'll be interesting to see how it performs.