The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class takes shape
July 18 2020,
Next September, Mercedes-Benz will officially present the new generation of its flagship model, the S-Class sedan. Although the debut of the brand's grande dame isn't scheduled for two months from now, we already have some interesting information to get our teeth into.
Here are the highlights
New platform
The current generation of the S-Class made its debut for the 2014 model year. As early as 2015, the brand's engineers were already hard at work designing the new model that's about to be introduced to us. While there's always plenty of time to prepare a new model, this is, even more, the case when a new platform is designed for it. The good news is that it will be used for other products of the brand in the coming years because of its "adjustable" nature. The car will still be offered with three wheelbases, the largest of which will be reserved for the Maybach brand.
V12
A V12 engine could still be in the mix, but we think it would be limited to the Maybach. Indeed, we won’t be able to get an AMG S 65 variant with this new S-Class. However, for the first time, the V12 would be paired with all-wheel drive. Otherwise, we'll still be able to get 6-cylinder and V8 versions. A hybrid powertrain will also mark an important milestone.
Advanced driving technologies
The new S-Class will also benefit from rear-wheel steering, which will increase its manoeuvrability in tighter spaces. Considering that the wheelbase has been increased by four centimetres, the approach will be welcome. Also, a Level 3 rating in terms of automated driving will be the order of the day for this car. Even as it goes through the cycle, the model will receive the technology needed to move to Level 4. A plug-in hybrid version, as well as one belonging to the EQ electric family, is also in the plans.
Finally, in terms of connectivity, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia system will be taken to the next level with new features. Notable among these are features that will allow all passengers to interact with the personal assistant that's called "Hey, Mercedes". Then, the driver will see augmented reality added to the head-up display system. For example, when approaching a turn, directional arrows will be superimposed on the information already displayed to inform the driver of the route ahead.
The S-Class is a very important model for Mercedes-Benz. It's through it that its luxury image is conveyed. Much more is to be expected from it. Rest assured that it will surprise us, even more, when it's officially unveiled in September.
