The introduction of the S-Class brand is always something special in the automotive world, as it takes us mere mortals into the not-so-distant future. The technologies of the present, which are found in this car, are technologies that we will enjoy in a few years. Therefore, the presentation of the S-Class is always a leap into the future.
In the automotive world, it is considered a presentation class S also a presentation of innovations in the automotive industry. A leap into the future, as most of these find themselves in regular vehicles sooner than a decade. This is also why the presentation of the new Mercedes-Benz is such a crucial event in the automotive industry. And always something special.
At first glance, not much has changed. But looks are deceiving! The new S class has unveiled a list of new engineering and technological innovations that promise to make this icon of luxury even better. Some of the highlights include two hybrid engine options, a massive central touchscreen, an updated and even more personalized experience with MBUX and more active safety technology that is at a higher level than ever before. Of course, luxury and attention to detail are at the forefront of the S-Class, as well as care for each passenger, who experiences an individualized travel experience in it.
The design of the car "follows" the trend of the latest models Mercedes Benz and the familiar shape only "connects" the current fashion guidelines, which were outlined by MB some time ago. The engine cover is slightly longer, the front headlights are sharper, the rims are more pronounced. At the rear, for the first time in three generations, there are horizontal lights. If class S set guidelines, this time he joins the latter. That's right class S, introduced in 2013, heralded a design renaissance for the brand. The other models then followed the same style and in recent years outlined the extremely successful story of this brand and caused a renaissance. This is also why many of us expected more courage and some vision for the future.
The door handles are now completely flush with the body (Tesla S, Range Rover), and there are new “aerodynamic inserts” on the inside of the mirrors to help improve airflow. A group that contributes to the incredible drag coefficient 0.22, making the S-Class one of the most aerodynamic cars in the world. For comparison, the Tesla Model S has a drag coefficient of 0.24.
It is slightly larger than its predecessor, but only slightly. However, it has less overhang at the front and behind the wheels, which means that the wheelbase is longer. This makes the "interior volume" even more luxurious. Its external shape dynamics remain extremely athletic.
Familiar but improved technology in the foreground
Everything starts with an information system or platform MBUX, which is at its new level in the S-Class model. Voice assistant "Hey, Mercedes” is now a bit more intuitive – it can understand basic functions like Bluetooth connectivity, it can take a call, change the radio station. The system should understand up to 27 different languages, and in addition, it can now also be used by passengers from the second row, or any S-class passenger.
Safety technology is of course the most important, and the new S-Class has all the safety features it currently offers Mercedes-Benz. The list includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, active steering assist, lane keep assist, lane change assist, traffic sign recognition, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and active blind spot monitoring. A car however, it knows through sensors whether you have your hands on the steering wheel, and only based on the resistance of the "force", as before.
There will be quite a few options under the hood, and all of them will be hybridized and electrified. Basically, a six-cylinder engine will be available, which together with a mild hybrid system will squeeze out of itself 429 horse powers, and the eight-cylinder s 469 horses. Both will use a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The entry price for the new S-Class will be around 100,000 euros, slightly above the entry-level model's current price. Sales will start in beginning of 2021, when we will be able to see the first examples on Slovenian roads as well.
