The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class makes its global debut

The styling on the latest S-Class can easily be described as subtle, however, new signature features adorn the front and rear of the flagship offering. The familiar yet updated grille is flanked by the standard Multi-Beam LED headlamps or the optional Digital Light headlamps, which automatically illuminate important road markings and signs along the route. The rear is finished with two-section rear lamps, the first time this flat design is incorporated on the S-Class. 

With the short wheelbase variant measuring 5 179 mm in length, 1 503 mm tall and 2 109 mm tall, Mercedes-Benz had a lot of space to fit its latest in advanced safety equipment, driver aids and infotainment system. With so many new features, we focus on the top 10 innovative technologies incorporated into the new model.

Related: Top 3 features on a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class that make it stand out from the competition

1. Second generation MBUX system

Making its debut in the S-Class, the second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system connects the driver and vehicle occupants and can be accessed by up to 5 monitors incorporated into the interior. In front of the driver sits a 12.3-inch display which with the help of special pixel structure and a controllable LCD aperture grille becomes an auto-stereoscopic display. Employing a stereo camera system fitted to the driver display, the vehicle can determine the position of the driver's eyes and adjust the interface to the most amount of information while creating the illusion of depth. 

One of the systems available to prospective buyers which forms part of the MBUX infotainment is the augmented reality head-up display. Although projected in the interior of the vehicle, the visuals it creates the impression of large three-dimensional design projected 10 m in front of the vehicle. The system not only display important vehicle and driver assistant information to the pilot but also give clear visual directions when the navigation system is in use. The animated arrows displayed as part of the guided navigation cleverly indicate the route.

2. MBUX Interior Assist

Further, enhancing the driver experience is the MBUX Interior Assist system which monitors driver behaviour via an overhead camera. Over time the system will start to recognise small body movements and will anticipate the driver's needs. An example given is when the driver looks over their shoulder, the system will automatically open the rear window blind for better visibility.

3. Active ambient lighting

The S-Class uses the latest in fibre optic technology to transform the interior into a vibrant and active environment. Transmitting a mixture of Red, Green and Blue, the LEDs situated 1.6 cm apart along a strip can project solid colours as well as mixed colour performances according to the occupant's taste. The ambient light also momentarily change colour to visually indicate the drive mode selected by the pilot such as Red for Sport and green for Eco.

4. 4D sound system

Utilising 31 speakers, the Burmester sound system incorporates two exciters which resonate the sound produced into the backrest of each seat. This results in the occupant experiencing an additional level in sound, thus 4D. Each occupant can individually set up the perceived intensity for their seat and store the individual setting to their profile. Each time the occupant returns to the vehicle and select their profile, the 4D is returned to their desired intensity. The Burmester sound system utilises two amplifiers with a combined output of 1 750 watts.

5. Driving Assistance Package

The Driving Assistance package not only removes the strain from the driver but also ensure optimal safety. The vehicle continuously monitors the surroundings and make small adjustments to keep the S-Class with its lane. Furthermore, the system will automatically adjust the cruising speed of based on the speed of the vehicle ahead as well as road signs and speed limits recognized along the route. When the driver is incapacitated due to medical reasons, the vehicle will gently apply the brakes until it comes to a complete stop. As soon as it is stationary, the Mercedes-Benz will activate the hazards and notify emergency services of your location.

6. Rear airbag

Optionally available on long-wheelbase variants is an innovative new safety feature. Seatbelt wearing occupants in the outer rear seats benefit from airbags installed into the rear of the front seats. If an accident occurs the airbags will gently deploy to protect the head and limbs of the rear occupants. This feature greatly reduces the chances of injury and lightens the load experienced on the necks of rear occupants during an accident.

7. Rear-axle steering

Another optional fixture on the latest S-Class is rear-axle steering. The system improves stability during lane changes and at highway speeds, however, the most benefits are experienced in confined spaces. Turning the rear wheels up to 10 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels allows the S-Class to effectively change direction and reduces the turning circle distance of the vehicle by up to 2 m.

8. PRE-SAFE ImpulseSide

Utilising the optional E-Active Body Control suspension and the sensors deployed around the vehicle, the S-Class will activate the Pre-safe ImpulseSide system if it anticipates a side impact. By means of the hydraulic E-Active Body Control suspension, the Pre-safe ImpulseSide system raises the entire vehicle body within a few tenths of a second to direct most of the forces towards the stronger and impact-resistant structures situated in the lower sections of the body.

9. Drive Pilot

Drive Pilot is Mercedes-Benz's autonomous driving system. Provided that the country of use allows for autonomous driving, hands-free driving remains conditional and will only activate in safe operating environments. The system will perform well in both normal highway conditions and in traffic jams allowing drivers to safely focus on making calls, replying to emails or responding to messages.

10. Over-the-air updates

Over-the-air updates are not a new technology in the automotive sector, however, the S-Class not only update its infotainment system with this service but also the driver display, the driving assistance systems and the Multi-Beam LED and DIGITAL LIGHT lighting systems. This not only saves the owner valuable time by not having to take the vehicle to a dealership but also means that the technology fitted to the vehicle remains up to date throughout the vehicle's lifetime.

Engine options

Although Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce a V8 engine option as well as a plug-in hybrid and all-electric derivatives during 2021, below are the derivatives available at launch.

Model	S 450 4MATIC	S 500 4MATIC	S 350 d	S 350 d 4MATIC	S 400 d 4MATIC
Engine	3.0-litre, straight-six, petrol	3.0-litre, straight-six, petrol	3.0-litre, straight-six, diesel	3.0-litre, straight-six, diesel	3.0-litre, straight-six, diesel
Transmission	9G-TRONIC	9G-TRONIC	9G-TRONIC	9G-TRONIC	9G-TRONIC
Power	270 kW	320 kW	210 kW	210 kW	243 kW
EQ Boost Power	16 kW	16 kW	N/A	N/A	N/A
Torque	500 N.m	520 N.m	600 N.m	600 N.m	700 N.m
EQ Boost Torque	250 N.m	250 N.m	N/A	N/A	N/A
Fuel Consumption NEDC Cycle	8.4-7.8L/100km	8.4-7.8L/100km	6.7-6.2L/100km	6.9-6.4L/100km	7.0-6.5L/100km
0-100 km/h	5.1s	4.9s	6.4s	6.2s	5.4s

Conclusion

While the new S-Class embodies understated styling on the exterior, underneath features innovative and advanced systems designed to keep occupants safe, connected and entertained. Whether at the helm or comfortably in the passenger seat, occupants benefit from one of the most comprehensive infotainment systems to date. 

Behind the steering wheel, the driver gains access to a host of driver assistant systems and the latest in AR technology. Once again the Mercedes-Benz S-Class lives up to its reputation for setting a benchmark in the automotive sector. While it is speculated that pricing will start at around R1.7mil before import duties and taxes, local pricing will only be revealed closer to the local introduction of the new flagship model which could still take place before the year is out.

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