早期的谍照显示，奔驰正在开发新款S级敞篷车，而最近谍照记者在靠近北极圈的地方拍到了正在测试的改款车。照片显示，该车采用了渐进式改款而非全面改款。这辆原型车的前脸/后保险杠和尾灯组都进行了伪装。奔驰已经证实，S级敞篷车今年将搭载新引擎，这其中包括称为M256的3.0升直列六缸引擎，该引擎的涡轮增压器采用电子辅助压缩机并集成起动-发电机。在48伏电子系统加持下，可以消除涡轮迟滞并在必要时增加动力性。虽然奔驰并未透露具体数值，但表示，该引擎功率将超过300千瓦/402马力，扭矩超过500牛米。另有一台M176 4.0升V8双涡轮引擎，功率超过350千瓦/469马力，扭矩700牛米。在不需要最大动力时，停缸系统可使四个气缸工作，进一步降低油耗。奔驰透露新引擎今年发布表明S级敞篷车的改款车型也将于今年亮相，随后将作为2018款车型上市。早先有传言称，该车最早将在3月的日内瓦车展亮相。

 

Mercedes spied testing lightly camouflaged S-Class Cabriolet refresh

Earlier spy photos show that Mercedes is developing a refresh for the S-Class, and a new batch of images provides a look at the revised styling on the droptop variant of the luxury model during development near the Arctic Circle.

 

These pictures indicate an evolutionary styling update for the S-Class rather than a major overhaul. This prototype sports a camouflaged front fascia, and there’s concealment over the rear bumper and taillights.

 

Mercedes has already confirms that the S-Class receives new engines sometime in 2017. Among the new powerplants is the German automaker’s 3.0-liter inline six. Called the M 256, the mill features electric auxiliary compressor for the turbocharger and an integrated starter-alternator. With a 48-volt electric system, the tech means almost no turbo lag and an extra hybrid boost when necessary. The company isn’t releasing specific output levels yet but says the engine is good for over 402 horsepower (300 kilowatts) and more than 369 pound-feet (500 Newton-meters).

 

There’s also the new M176 4.0-liter biturbo V8 that produces over 469 hp (350 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm). Cylinder deactivation lets it run as a four-cylinder when the maximum power isn’t necessary.

 

Mercedes' intention to introduce the new engines in 2017 suggests that the refreshed S-Class should arrive this year and likely go on sale as a 2018 model year vehicle. Earlier rumors hint that we could see the debut as soon as the Geneva Motor Show in March.