A new prototype for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz
S-Class has been spied testing with very little camouflage, providing us with a
good idea of the vehicle’s overall design. This prototype is finished in gloss
black and includes some light camouflage across the front and rear fascias. One
of the first things that will strike you about the design of the new S-Class is
the sportier front and rear fascias which are more angular than the outgoing
model and more akin to the current Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Also of note with this prototype are the
pop-out door handles that sit flush with the bodywork when not in use. The spy
photographers have previously spotted next-gen S-Class testers with traditional
door handles, leading us to believe certain variants will have traditional door
handles while higher-end models will get the pop-out units.
Inside, significant changes have been made
to the car. For starters, there is a large digital instrument cluster and a
12.8-inch infotainment system neatly incorporated vertically into the
dashboard. This screen incorporates the company’s latest MBUX software and can
be had with OLED technology and haptic feedback. In addition, the instrument
cluster provides a 3D effect without the user having to use 3D glasses.
As part of the brand’s shift to more
screens and touch surfaces, it has taken away 27 hard buttons and switches from
the outgoing model. Significant advancements have also been made to the screens
enjoyed by rear-seat passengers. Underpinning the new S-Class is the MRA II
rear-wheel drive platform that uses carbon fiber and aluminum extensively in
its construction. This architecture will also bring with it rear-wheel
steering. Other key pieces of technology found within the new S-Class will
include Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, active suspension, and more.
Powertrain details remain unclear although
electrification will be present across the range, including various 48-volt
mild-hybrid models and a plug-in hybrid.
