Mercedes-Benz S 450e Plug-In Hybrid to Launch in India by 2027

Mercedes-Benz will introduce the S 450e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in India alongside the updated S-Class range. The launch is expected at the end of 2026 or early 2027. This marks the first time Mercedes-Benz India will offer a plug-in hybrid S-Class, expanding its luxury sedan lineup.

Key Highlights

• Mercedes-Benz S 450e plug-in hybrid to launch in India by early 2027
• S 450e offers 100km electric-only range with a 22kWh battery
• Total system output is 435hp and 680Nm with 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds
• S 450e to be assembled locally and positioned above petrol and diesel S-Class variants

New S 450e Plug-In Hybrid Details

The S 450e will join the petrol S 450 and diesel S 350d variants. It features EQ Hybrid Technology and combines a 2,999cc ‘M256 Evo’ turbo-petrol engine with a 120kW electric motor. The engine meets Euro 7 emissions norms. The S 450e uses a large 22kWh battery, enabling up to 100km of electric-only range. Owners can recharge the battery using a plug, making it suitable for daily city commutes on electric power alone.

The S 450e delivers a total system output of 435hp and 680Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 5.7 seconds. In comparison, the petrol S 450 achieves 0 to 100kph in 4.9 seconds. The S 450e is rear-wheel drive and weighs 2,465kg due to the battery pack, while the S 450 uses 4Matic all-wheel drive and a 48V mild-hybrid system for temporary power boosts.

Market Position and Assembly Plans

The S 450e is expected to be positioned above the petrol and diesel S-Class variants but below the Maybach S-Class. Mercedes-Benz assembles the long-wheelbase S-Class (V223), Maybach S-Class (X223), and EQS electric sedan (V297) at its Chakan plant in Maharashtra. The company may assemble the S 450e locally to maintain competitive pricing within its model hierarchy.

The S 450e provides a bridge for buyers interested in electric mobility but not ready to commit to a full EV. It offers silent, zero-emissions driving for city use and the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips. This approach addresses customers who found the EQS EV less luxurious than the S-Class. The facelifted EQS limousine will not launch in India.

Luxury Hybrid Competition in India

Other luxury plug-in hybrids previously available in India include the Volvo XC90 T8, Porsche Cayenne S e-hybrid, and the previous-generation BMW 740Le. Globally, Mercedes-Benz has offered a PHEV S-Class since the W222 generation. With growing interest in hybrids in India, Mercedes-Benz aims to meet demand with the S 450e.