2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class Spy Shots. Mercedes-Benz is nearing completion of its next-generation S Class, the W222, with the latest prototypes undergoing further testing now wearing the least camouflage yet. We can clearly see new LED daytime running lights and indicators, which on the new model appear to be at the top of the headlight. The grille is also completely revealed and appears much larger than the unit on the outgoing car. Previous shots showed the interior almost completely undisguised, revealing a blend of modern and traditional elements. The most striking feature in the cabin is the new twin-spoke steering wheel design. Due for a reveal this year as a 2014 model, the new car will continue the S Class’ tradition of debuting the latest in automotive technology. However, it will also break with tradition by offering for the first time new new coupe, convertible and extra long Pullman variants, the latter replacing the discontinued Maybach line. This will also be the first production model in history to feature fully autonomous control.
We were recently able to test the new S Class’ autonomous system and found it to be very impressive. The aim of the technology, Mercedes says, is accident-free driving, which could become a reality within the next decade. Other new technologies include active brakes with cross traffic monitoring, rear accident injury minimization and new lane keep technology that can read broken as well as solid lines. The car will also be the first with LEDs used entirely, including in the vanity mirrors. The 2014 S Class looks to be slightly longer than the outgoing model and should come packed with a range of fuel efficient engines as well as a new plug-in hybrid option, though this latter option is unlikely to be available at launch. While it's still too early to confirm any details, R&D boss Dr. Thomas Weber has previously stated that a series of direct-injected and turbocharged engines will make up the powertrain lineup for the next S Class, which means you can expect a similar lineup to what’s currently on offer.
The new S550 should come with a 429-horsepower twin-turbo V-8, while the S600 should pick up a new iteration of the automaker’s twin-turbo V-12 with around 510 horsepower on tap. The eventual S63 AMG model will get a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 with around 550 horsepower to play with. Weber has also previously revealed that the plug-in hybrid powertrain from the 2009 Vision S500 Plug-In Hybrid Concept will also appear in the W222 series S Class. The technology promises 0-60 mph times of less than 6.0 seconds but with fuel economy of 70 mpg or better. As for the car’ styling, Mercedes is going with a more timeless look that some may find a bit conservative. The sweeping curves seen on its flanks, first previewed on Mercedes’ Aesthetics S sculpture, were designed to mimic the curves on iconic Mercedes models like the 540K. Look for a reveal of the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class in the first half of this year, ahead of a summer sales launch. While you wait for its arrival, be sure to view our exclusive spy video of a prototype at the Nürburgring. 2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class Spy Shots.
Source : motorauthority