Auto Spies World Exclusive: Hot scoop on next generation S-Class
When will it arrive?
email: avoglezon@mbzlongbeach.com
Dear 001,
Your exclusive info on the next generation is S-class is so far ahead of everyone else, I thought I'd help you get even further ahead with these tidbits...
Mercedes Benz is less than 18-months away from revealing the next-generation S-Class, even though the current version is still relatively new. The W221-Series range will make its public debut at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show, and a CL coupe version will follow about a year later.
Although this car will remain the same length as the current model - so as not to affect Maybach's sales...it's wheelbase is to be extended for greater interior room, with shorter front and rear overhangs. There will be a lot more space in the rear and access will be far easier thanks to larger rear doors. Inside, expect all the latest gadgets such as E-Class sourced multi-contour seats, an electro chromatic glass roof, night vision, a top-of-the-range hifi system from Danish Bang and Olufsen, full multimedia facilities including bluetooth wireless telematics, command driver information & communications systems (controls yet to be finalized), radar-operated speed-sensitive cruise control and emergency braking. There is also the ability to communicate with other cars fitted with the same system, to warn of road conditions ahead. To support all these systems, the S-Class will have a new 42-volt fibre optic network, incorporating a 12-volt starter/generator to run the climate control system effectively from start-up.
Power comes from a variety of direct-injection petrol and diesel units, with the petrol engines featuring the CGI (Charged Gasoline Injection). Initially there will be V8 and V12 engines, including a 500 bhp bi-turbo V12, similar to that in the Maybach. The 3.2-litre 6-cylinder and 4-litre V8 diesels will both get dual supercharges, boosting power to 260bhp and 300bhp respectively. There is still no decision on smaller engines and we may have seen the last of the V6 units in an S-Class. If a less expensive model is required, it may well be a 3.5-litre version of the V8 to compete with BMW's forthcoming unit. All motors will be hooked up to the new G7 transmission as standard. Keeping a watchful eye on proceedings will be the very latest versions of MB's traction control and stability systems. Stopping power is provided by massive 14" fast-cooling ceramic brakes (which are so large, the smallest wheels will be 18").
The only blot on the horizon is styling, which is supposed to remain typical sleek and elegant S-Class, although design features will reflect both the Maybach and the upcoming GST (Grand Sports Tourer, the MPV/4x4 hybrid). The headlamps in particular will resemble the Maybach's, and the high, pronounced waistline is similar to that of the GST's. The big worry is that this car will end up looking like Frankenstein’s monster (NOT!), ala BMW 7-Series. The real difficulty is that at this end of the marketplace, style is everything as BMW have found to their cost. The car is destined to make it's appearance at a few more styling clinics around the world and the rumors are that a bad reception will force some hasty design changes.
Expect to be shocked in the dealers though because even the basic, smaller-engined S-Class will probably be wearing an $85K price sticker.
All the best,
Wolfgang
Auto Spies Perspective: As we've told our readers numerous times, while the others are still speculating, we've actually been in one of the concepts. We can ASSURE you, no one will have to "GET USED" to the look when they see it. It is every bit as breathtaking as the CLS...but much larger and with more presence. Get ready to get in line at your dealer for this one! Trust us, BMW is crapping bricks over the implications it will have on their flagship. And they should be! All they can hope for when the 7 refresh comes, is to stop the slide in sales. When the new S debuts, it's lights out for the current 7. If you're thinking the refresh of the 7 will be the answer...your're dead wrong.
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