The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 S400 CDI was a luxury sedan produced from 2000 to 2005. It featured a 3.2-liter V6 diesel engine that produced 250 horsepower and 510 Nm of torque.
Engine and Performance
The S400 CDI's inline-6 turbo-diesel powerplant used a high-pressure fuel system to deliver improved performance and efficiency. The engine was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, which drove the rear wheels through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The resulting performance allowed the S400 CDI to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in around 9 seconds.
Interior and Features
Inside, the W220 S-Class offered an opulent cabin with premium materials, including leather upholstery, wood trim, and a high-quality audio system. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a Burmester sound system. Advanced safety features like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes were also standard.
Exterior and Chassis
The S400 CDI rode on a 3,060 mm (120 in) wheelbase, with a suspension comprising double-wishbone front struts and multi-link rear axles. The car featured a subtle yet distinctive design update for the 2002 model year, which included revised headlamps, bumpers, and side mirrors.
Dimensions and Capacity
- Length: 4,960 mm (195 in)
- Width: 1,860 mm (73 in)
- Height: 1,440 mm (57 in)
- Wheelbase: 3,060 mm (120 in)
- Curb weight: approximately 2,300 kg (5,000 lbs)
Fuel Economy and Emissions
The S400 CDI's 3.2-liter V6 diesel engine delivered respectable fuel economy, with an estimated combined consumption of around 12 liters per 100 km (19 mpg). The car met EU4 emissions standards.
Reliability and Maintenance
As a member of the W220 generation, the S400 CDI benefited from Mercedes-Benz's reputation for building reliable luxury vehicles. Regular maintenance, including oil changes every 15,000 kilometers (9,300 miles) and tire rotations every 10,000 km (6,200 miles), was crucial to extending its lifespan.
Warranty and Support
Mercedes-Benz offered a comprehensive warranty package for the S400 CDI, including a 3-year/100,000 km (62,000 mile) new vehicle limited warranty and a separate 2-year/40,000 km (25,000 mile) corrosion protection plan. The car also benefited from Mercedes-Benz's extensive dealership network and worldwide customer support services.
Notable Variants
During its production run, the S400 CDI was joined by several variants, including:
- S430: A V8-powered variant with a 4.3-liter engine producing 279 horsepower.
- S500: A 5.0-liter V8-powered model generating 408 horsepower.
- S55 AMG: A high-performance variant powered by a 5.5-liter supercharged V8, delivering 476 horsepower.
Recall and Service Information
In 2004, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for the W220 generation to address issues with the electronic stability control system. Regular maintenance was crucial to ensuring optimal performance and preventing costly repairs down the line.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 S400 CDI offered an exceptional blend of luxury, comfort, and performance, making it a popular choice among affluent buyers seeking a refined driving experience.
