Mercedes Hybrid S-Class: Four Minutes to Save the World

For years, Motown and Motown-sympathetic carmudgeons tarred and feathered the Toyota Prius for its “hybrid premium.” Other than Car Czar Maximum Bob Lutz, who never held a stance he couldn’t not defend with fact=based logic, critics of the “eco-weenie’s poseur mobile” trotted out chart after chart on the Prius’ miles per gallon, purchase price, the cost of gas and the cost of batteries; compared to, say, a Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS. Meanwhile, consumers bought the Prius—to the point where the model outsells entire GM brands (something of a mean feat). Meanwhile, the LS600h L. As my review pointed out, flipping heck! The gas – electric luxury car has one of the world’s finest engines. Not to be outdone—provided you don’t think “first in” counts—Mercedes has unveiled its first gas – electric hybrid: the S400 HYBRID (all caps all theirs).

The Lexus LS600h L was designated a “600” because Lexus reckoned the battery-enabled V8 engine performed like a 6.0-liter V12 (no argument here). Besides, the most expensive model/range topper should wear the highest number. So, will Mercedes’ gas – electric S400 HYBRID perform like a 4.0-liter V8? Ja, maybe. It’s equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 good for 275 hp married to an electric motor that generates 20 hp and “a starting torque of 118 lb·ft.” Put it all together and what do you get? Twenty-nine miles per gallon on the EPA’s highway cycle, presumably.

Well, that’s the headline anyway. In fact, Mercedes wants you to know that the S400 HYBRID “dispels the myth that sustainable mobility is only possible with small cars.” There’ll be some sniggering in Japan tonight, folks. Anyway, Merc’s HYBRID is a bit like Time magazine’s cover: when a trend hits the front, it’s so mainstream its not worth bothering about anymore.

All of which means Toyota hybrid owners are free to go about their business without condescending MSM pricks and Detroit apologists (and condescending MSM Detroit apologists) telling them that they’re poseurs.