The new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been officially unveiled. The new model showcases a number of brand-new technologies and world-firsts for the automotive industry.
Showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s latest design philosophy, the 2014 S-Class gets a set of new more perkier headlight lenses incorporating a string of LED daytime running lights. There’s also an unmissable large new chrome-rimmed grille and an aggressive lower fascia and spoiler system.
At the back, the sleek swept-over trend is carried over from other new models in the company’s lineup, using rounded taillights and a curvy bootline and set of rear guards. Twin exhausts poke out from either side.
The new model will come in four different flavours, initially; the S 350 BlueTEC, the S 500, the S 300 Hybrid, and the S 400 Hybrid.
The S 350 consists of a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 producing 190kW of power and 620Nm of torque. It’ll offer 0-100km/h acceleration in 6.8 seconds, and a fuel economy average of 5.6L/100km.
Stepping up into the S 500, it comes with a 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol producing 335kW and 700Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes as little 4.8 seconds to achieve, while offering an average fuel economy rating of 9.1L/100km.
Lastly, for eco-enthusiasts, there will be two hybrid offerings; the S 300 and S 400 Hybrid. The 300 comes with a 2.1-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder producing 150kW and 500Nm, paired with a 20kW and 250Nm electric motor system. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 7.6 seconds, with an average economy rating of just 4.4L/100km.
The 400 Hybrid comes with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol producing 225kW and 370Nm, along with an electric motor assist system adding 20kW and 250Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 6.8 seconds, with an average consumption of 6.8L/100km.
As we’ve already seen, the interior will offer a myriad of luxury features and advanced technologies, with a huge LCD screen making up the centre fascia, along with another LCD screen making up the instrument cluster.
One of the highlight features in terms of car safety is new system Mercedes-Benz calls Intelligent Drive. The system is capable of assessing surrounding conditions using various sensors and a stereo camera. Prof. Thomas Weber, head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, explains,
“Intelligent assistance systems analyse complex situations and better recognise potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems. Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.”
Some of the systems include Distronic PLUS cruise control with Steering Assist and Stop-Go Pilot. With these, the car can basically drive itself, even in dense traffic conditions. Brake Assist and Cross-Traffic Assist ensure danger from traffic in either direction crossing in front is minimal.
There’s also Night Vision Plus which is capable of alerting the driver about pedestrians and animals near the path in front, while a new spotlight system is able to highlight potential dangers.
Other highlights include complete LED lighting – with zero bulbs throughout the entire vehicle – massage and ventilated seats with ‘reverse fans’, an Executive Seat in the rear which can recline, optional thermo cup-holders capable of cooling or warming drinks, optional Active Perfuming climate control with Air Balance with perfume atomisation, ionisation.
As for the car itself, it uses a third generation aluminium body with a torsional stiffness in relation to the size of the car improved by 50 per cent. The body offering, according to Mercedes, outstanding rigidity and handling as well as very low noise levels and vibrations.
The new model will go on sale in international markets towards the end of this year. An Australian introduction will likely take place early in 2014.
