Mercedes S580e Hybrid Now Has 4Matic AWD Option

Mercedes S580e has a 62-mile electric driving range, making it the king of PHEVs. It's also a quick way to get you where you want to go, with a total system output of 496 hp (503 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque.

However, combining that force with the highway surface isn't always as simple as it seems. From the start, the PHEV was only offered in rear-wheel drive, but the V8-powered S580 was only accessible with 4Matic all-wheel drive, despite a 37 lb-ft lower torque output.

You will be pleased to learn that Mercedes has now introduced an all-wheel-drive alternative to the PHEV variant. The running gear is the same as before, except for the added transmission hardware. The PHEV isn't driven by the S580's V8, but rather a 3.0-liter turbo six with 362 hp (367 PS) and a 148 hp (150 PS) electric engine.

The battery can be charged in 30 minutes and can propel the Mercedes S580e up to 87 mph, though you won't get close to the 62-mile EV range if you do that for an extended amount of time. The 4Matic begins at €130,638 ($147,900) in Germany, where both regular and long-wheelbase variants are offered, versus €126,830 ($143,600) for the two-wheel-drive car.

A modified MBUX infotainment system that now has the same zero layer approach as the EQS electric car is another modification that affects all S-class vehicles. The goal is that the car will recognize which apps the driver requires based on the driving scenario, saving him from having to browse endlessly or use voice commands to find them.

Furthermore, the key functions will always be displayed on the screen's top level. More personalization alternatives are open through Mercedes' new Manufaktur program, as well as a leather-free interior for the first time.