MARKET ANALYSIS
S450 (2018 to 2020)

The Mercedes-Benz S450 arrived in 2018 as a cornerstone of the W222 facelift, marking the return of the legendary inline-six engine to the flagship S-Class range until production concluded in 2020. This variant featured the advanced M256 3.0-litre turbocharged engine, which utilised a 48V mild-hybrid "EQ Boost" system to eliminate turbo lag and provide a seamless 270 kW of power. In the Australian market, the S450 is a standout for its eligibility under the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS), making it a very popular Japanese import choice for local enthusiasts. The Japanese-delivered models are highly prized by the buyer pool for their typically low mileage and exceptional maintenance standards, often featuring high-specification "Exclusive" or "AMG Line" packages that are difficult to find in local stock. Because the S450 falls under the Environmental Criterion of the import scheme due to its mild-hybrid technology, it offers a more accessible pathway for collectors to secure a top-tier W222 with modern digital features. These imported examples maintain strong desirability and market value as blue-chip modern classics, offering a technologically advanced driving experience that feels remarkably current even years after the final W222 left the factory.
The Mercedes-Benz S450 arrived in 2018 as a cornerstone of the W222 facelift, marking the return of the legendary inline-six engine to the flagship S-Class range until production concluded in 2020. This variant featured the advanced M256 3.0-litre turbocharged engine, which utilised a 48V mild-hybrid "EQ Boost" system to eliminate turbo lag and provide a seamless 270 kW of power. In the Australian market, the S450 is a standout for its eligibility under the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Sche…
