S-Class Sedan

Segment
Sedan

If you want to know what technology your car will have ten years from now, look at today's S-Class. Well, prepare to be excited for the future because the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class just arrived, packing world-class technology and luxury.

With this new flagship, Mercedes debuts its second-generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), which now lives on a massive 12.8-inch center touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster screen. In fact, the S-Class is available with up to five screens in the cabin, including two rear screens and an MBUX tablet.

Mercedes only announced two powertrains: the S500 4MATIC and S580 4MATIC. The former uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque while the latter gets a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, both going out through a nine-speed automatic and both benefiting from mild-hybrid assist. More powerful AMG versions are sure to arrive later.

The engines are not the only significant mechanical improvements in the new S-Class. It now features E-Active Body Roll suspension, which is powered by the 48-volt starter generator. This system keeps the car smooth and level over road surfaces and can even raise the body when it detects an impending impact. With this new S-Class, Mercedes also leaps closer toward accident-free driving. The vehicle is capable of managing the speed, following distance, steering, and lane-changing, relieving the stress of the driver.

While letting the car handle a larger portion of the driving burden, the driver and passengers can relax in one of the most well-appointed cabins available today. The front seats feature up to 19 motors, and each seat in the car includes a seal of approval from the Healthy Seating campaign. Occupants can choose from one of ten massage profiles while they enjoy music on the car's optional Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system. Buyers can choose from one of three rear seat configurations, including a static bench, comfort seats with adjustment, or executive seating.

Dimensionally, this new S-Class is 1.3 inches longer, two inches wider, and features a two-inch increase in wheelbase compared to the outgoing model. The small size increase provides more passenger space, while trunk space also grows to 19 cubic feet. Mercedes compensated for the extended length by adding a rear-axle steering system, which cuts the turning radius down by 6.2 feet.

Some important information, like pricing and fuel economy, has not been revealed yet but should come at a later date. The current S450 starts at $94,250, so this new model could exceed $100,000 in base form. Look for official pricing information closer to the on-sale date in the first half of 2021.