Modern luxury reaches a new height with the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Modern luxury reaches a new level with the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

With a short front overhang, long wheelbase and a balanced rear overhang, the S-Class is designed as a classical saloon with perfect proportions. A wide track and flush-mounted wheels with modern designs give the vehicle a muscular look.

The front section now houses what Mercedes-Benz describes as a 'high-status radiator grille', while the headlamps are now characterised by a three-point daytime driving light signature that is typical of the S-Class, reinterpreted to so it is now flatter and somewhat smaller.

Optional flush-mounted door handles are also new, and electrically extended when the driver approaches, or when the outer surface of the door handle is stroked.

The second generation of Mercedes' Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) also makes its debut in this new S-Class. The system is now connected with up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, making the control of vehicle and comfort functions even easier.

The possibilities for personalisation and intuitive operation have also become far more extensive. This certainly applies in the rear, but also to the driver. For example, the new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. A real three-dimensional effect is achieved without having to wear 3D glasses.

Two different head-up displays (HUDs) are available on request, with the larger HUD capable of providing augmented reality content. When navigating for example, animated turn-off arrows are virtually and precisely projected onto the road lane. Information from the assistance functions, such as the Active Distance Assist is shown via the HUDs.

The voice assistant 'Hey Mercedes' is even more learn- and dialogue-capable by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App.

Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword 'Hey Mercedes'. These include accepting a telephone call. 'Hey Mercedes' is also now able to explain vehicle functions and answer general knowledge questions. In the S-Class the voice assistant can also be controlled from the rear.

The S-Class also now comes with a MBUX Smart Home function, allowing the car to function as a control centre for the home. Temperature and lighting, roller blinds and electrical appliances at home can now be remotely monitored and controlled from the S-Class, while motion detectors and window contacts can also inform the user of welcome or unwelcome visitors.

The interior of the S-Class takes modern luxury to a new level. The designers have created a feel-good ambience with a lounge character marked by elegance, high quality, and lightness.

The dashboard now sits on a new architecture, and the feel-good aspect goes even deeper thanks to a high ride quality and low noise levels as well as an extensive range of ENERGISING Comfort programmes.

The seats of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class have been designed to invite occupants to sit down and relax. A flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness, while different finishes give the seats different characters.

For example, the flowing longitudinal piping of Lugano leather lends them a noble, avantgarde look, while the progressive diamond pattern of Nappa leather and Exclusive Nappa leather is more classical and expressive.

Up to 19 motors in the front seats make for comfortable seating, indicating the complexity of the technology installed in the seats.

10 different massage programmes are available in the new S-Class. These use the vibration motors, and can enhance the effect of a relaxing massage with warmth akin to a hot-stone massage. To this end, the seat heating is combined with the inflatable air chambers in the active multicontour seats. The air chambers are now closer to the seat surface, and are therefore even easier to control and feel.

Five different rear seat variants make it possible to configure the rear of the S-Class as a working or rest area. One new feature is the heated additional cushion for the head restraint, which is available for the two electrically adjustable rear seats. The adjustment range and angle of the front passenger seat in the chauffeur configuration and the reclining seat behind it have been improved as well.

It is expected that from the second half of 2021 the S-Class will be able to drive in conditionally automated mode with the new DRIVE PILOT system, described as being capable of a SAE Level 3 degree of autonomous driving. By taking pressure off the driver, this allows them to undertake secondary activities such as browsing on the internet or dealing with emails in the In-Car Office, and so win extra time.

Innovative suspension systems ensure an impressive travel experience in the new S-Class. The optional Rear-axle steering can provide a steering angle of up to 10 degrees, improving manoeuvrability in urban areas to the level of a compact car. The turning circle is reduced by up to two metres.

The new S-Class is being launched with two 3.0-litre six-cylinder inline petrol engines. The first engine will deliver 362bhp and 500Nm of torque, while the second delivers 429bhp and 520Nm of torque. The EQ boost system will deliver an additional 21bhp and 250Nm of torque for both engines.

A V8 engine with an integrated starter-generator and a 48V onboard electrical system will be available soon after. A plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of around 100km will follow in 2021.