SPY: New shots of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222)

With the reveal set for Paris Auto Salon this fall, the new S-Class should make an initial appearance in either late June or July. The trendsetter in the automotive industry enters the eighth model generation with a confident mission - to write a new chapter of the rich S-Class heritage book.

The new S-Class will be, how else, the best high-end premium limousine. Powerful and astonishing in every sense, the W 222 will incorporate intelligent technology that make it look like a moving luxury Swiss watch. The MAGIC RIDE CONTROL, the Autonomous Driving System and the integrated @yourCOMAND telematics will celebrate world debut on the new S-Class.

Furthermore, a new generation of active safety systems, such as the Speed Limit Assist or the Blind Spot Assist, will be available for the car as well. Powertrain will consist of the rear-driven MRA platform, on which new and efficient BlueDIRECT V6 and V8 engines, as well as an I4, a new V12 unit and several hybrid solutions, will be sitting on. A new automatic gearbox, featuring up to nine speeds, will also be launched with the W 222.

The new generation of the S-Class goes on sale beginning with 2013 and we expect the entry-level version to be priced at over 75,000 euros in Germany. The US market launch is scheduled for spring the same year.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) is a mindblowing appearance on streets

The S-Class is synonymous with automotive perfection. The premium limousine has been the all-time trendsetter in the luxury class: whether we talk about comfort, technology, safety or the upscale atmosphere, the S-Class symbolizes the epitome for a true representative car that always turn heads on the streets. This is the reason the engineers and all the personnel involved in the development of the all new W 222 generation of the S-Class have such a daring and complex task.

It is redundant to mention that the future S-Class will hold global supremacy among the high-luxury automobiles when it's launched this year during summer. The worldwide reveal is prone to happen in the beautiful city of Paris, at the French Mondial de l'Automobile 2012 starting late September. Testing phase has reached a very advanced stage, as these are the final months prior to the impatiently awaited unveiling.

When the curtains lift off, we will certainly witness an outstanding result no matter where we look - outside, inside or underneath. The new S-Class will be a competent fighter getting top marks in all disciplines. The progressive design the W 222 will display is the materialization of the styling seen on the F 700 research vehicle and Ocean Drive Concept. The interior will offer a futuristic experience thanks to the multitude of gadgets, telematics and assistance systems that help create a unique atmosphere.

The car will be packed full of clever technology and the ride will be more efficient with the help of a clean and powerful engine lineup consisting of I4, V6 and V8 gasoline and diesel (likely BlueTEC) units. For those who appreciate the alternative means of traction, Mercedes-Benz will offer the S 400 HYBRID ('mild') with over 300 hp and the all new S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID ('full') delivering around 415 hp. If you were wondering whether the range-topping S 600 version is gone forever, then we have some good news for you: a new V12 powerplant with over 550 hp is in the works at the moment and will be readied just in time for 2014 when the car is expected to be unleashed on roads. Last, but not least, come the well-known super limos from AMG: the S 63 AMG with 544 hp and the S 65 AMG with 630 hp.

You might also like to read:

- PREVIEW: Future Mercedes-Benz S-Class to display an outstanding tech bonanza
- The telematics future of Mercedes-Benz: @yourCOMAND - Always online for more information, safety and comfort
- SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) hits the fast curves of the Ring
- PREVIEW: A deep look into the next generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- The future Mercedes-Benz tech stuff is all about ... magic

Photo Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Daimler's Dr. Z confirms the future S-Class lineup will total six different models

We have previously reported this news, but it's time to refresh your mind. During the speech of Daimler chief Dr. Dieter Zetsche, during which he outlined company's ambitious 2020 growth plan, held at the opening ceremony of the Hungarian-based Kecskemet plant, it became official the forthcoming generation of the S-Class will comprise an extended lineup of high-luxury variants. The new additions are said to be a convertible, a Pullman limousine and a 4-door coupe.

With this strategy, Mercedes-Benz is on the trail of having world's most complete fleet high-class cars. One of the reasons of the expansion in this exquisite market segment is the announced demise of the Maybach brand in 2013. Filling the empty space with niche vehicle, that have a pronounced grade of public appeal, especially luxury models, is exactly the right path to go and nonetheless the solution that would have brought a brighter outcome for the old, dying Maybach.


The first S-Class of the 222 series to make debut this year is the standard wheelbase limousine, codenamed W 222. During 2013, the long wheelbase model (V 222 ??) along with the S-Class Coupe (C 222) are to be unleashed by Mercedes-Benz. Approximately one year after the discontinuation of Maybach, the replacement is set to arrive in the form of the new S-Class Pullman extended wheelbase saloon (X 222 ??). In 2015, we should see the first incarnation of the 2007 Ocean Drive Concept as the S-Class Cabriolet (A 222 ??), that could have four doors like the showcar, will reportedly be introduced. Approaching 2016, the German carmaker will further enrich the S-Class portfolio with a brand new four-door coupe (S 222 ??).


Along with these new additions, Mercedes-Benz will also develop a comprehensive array of leading technical innovations in the dynamics, safety and car communication areas. Also, a full range of more economical, yet powerful internal combustion (gasoline, diesel and diesel BlueTEC) engines in I4, V6 (and/or I6?), V8 and V12 cylinder configurations will make their entrance in the scene to replace the current powerplants. The ride will be further optimized thanks to the extensive measures included in the BlueEFFICIENCY eco-friendly package.  Some green drive systems are also bound to be released with the new S-Class: a plug-in hybrid with over 400 hp peak output, a mild hybrid and an all-electric version are possible after 2014.

Illustration Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY declared 2012 World Green Car

At a press conference hosted by Bridgestone Corporation and the New York International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was declared the 2012 World Green Car.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was chosen from an initial entry list of 23 new vehicles from all over the world, then three finalists: the Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the Ford Focus Electric, and the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid.

This is the second time in World Green Car history that a Mercedes-Benz technology has won this prestigious honour. The Mercedes-Benz E 320 BlueTEC technology was the 2007 World Green Car winner.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI: The 5 litres/100 km S-Class

The title of "The world's most economical luxury saloon" goes to the new S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. With an output of 150 kW (204 hp) it achieves a fuel consumption of only 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 grams per kilometre.

The first four-cylinder engine in the more than 60-year success story of the S‑Class attains a combined fuel consumption of just 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 grams per kilometre. This makes the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY the first car in the luxury segment to consume under 6 litres of fuel per 100 km, and the first vehicle in its class to attain CO2 emissions below the 150-gram mark. With a peak power output of 150 kW (204 hp) and maximum torque of 500 newton metres, the four-cylinder CDI guarantees the superior performance which is a hallmark of the S‑Class. It accelerates the large saloon from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h.

The 2.2-litre CDI engine already delivers its maximum torque at 1600 rpm. The high torque at low engine speeds is a result of two-stage turbocharging. This technology, which is employed in a series-production passenger car diesel engine for the first time in the C and E-Class, is predominantly responsible for the high output at the level of a six-cylinder power unit.

The compact module for the two-stage turbocharging consists of a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger. These are connected in series, and each has a turbine and a compressor driven by this turbine. The HP turbine is located directly at the exhaust manifold to take the initial flow of exhaust gas, and rotates at up to 215,000 rpm. The HP turbine housing features an integral bypass duct, which can be opened or closed by means of a charge-pressure control flap triggered by a vacuum cell. If the flap is closed the whole exhaust stream flows through the HP turbine, so that the exhaust gas energy is available solely for the HP turbine drive. This means that the optimum charge pressure can already be built up at low engine speeds.

Improved cylinder charging even at low rpm

The two compressors are likewise connected in series, and are in addition connected to a bypass duct. The combustion air from the air filter first flows through the low-pressure compressor, where it is compressed as a function of the LP turbine's output. This pre-compressed air then passes into the high-pressure compressor, which is coupled to the HP turbine, where it undergoes further compression. The result is a genuine two-stage turbocharging process. The major advantage of this sophisticated, demand-related control of the combustion air supply using two turbochargers is improved cylinder charging, and therefore high torque even at low engine speeds. Fuel consumption is also reduced. When the car is driven, this concept makes itself felt by harmonious driving characteristics with no turbo-lag, a favourable torque curve across the entire engine speed range, great responsiveness and excellent performance.

A further feature of the innovative and highly efficient diesel engine is fourth-generation common-rail direct injection. The rail pressure of 2000 bar is crucial in order to deliver 150 kW (204 hp) of engine power and maximum torque of 500 Nm in combination with low untreated emissions.










Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) is starting the "striptease" number

FEP is on for the upcoming S-Class (W 222) as a good amount of camouflage was pilled off the test vehicles. The luxury limo will showcase a progressive/organic styling approach inspired by the concept cars unveiled during the last years. The majority of design elements clearly come from the F 700 research vehicle and you can actually depict them in the new front fascia or in the general architecture of the rear end. The bigger headlights include more technology inside, such as the radars for the MAGIC RIDE CONTROL damper management system, whereas the huge traditional grille reminds of the glorious Mercs from the past. The new S-Class is expected to grow by a few centimeters compared to the outgoing model; official premiere is set to take place during autumn, at Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris.

Check out further spy shots after the break!











Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

BRABUS 800 Based on the Mercedes S-Class: The World’s Most Powerful and Fastest Luxury Sedan

BRABUS 800: 800 hp (799 bhp) / 588 kW and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) do more than just turn the Mercedes S 600 in most potent BRABUS specification into the world’s most powerful luxury sedan: with a top speed of electronically limited 350 km/h (217 mph) the exclusive four-seat car also wins the “Blue Ribbon” for the world’s fastest luxury liner. BRABUS complements the unique high-performance standard with a sporty yet elegant designer outfit, custom-tailored wheels with diameters of up to 21 inches, a high-performance brake system and exclusive interior refinements that include the stylish integration of two Apple iPads.


Twelve-cylinder high-capacity engines in the S-Class look back on almost two decades of tradition at BRABUS. Powered by the BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine originally developed for the BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” the automotive luxury class now attains a new level of performance.

Displacement of the V12 engine that normally powers the latest Mercedes 600 models is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 385 cu. in.) The displacement increase is the product of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced piston rods, larger-diameter pistons and corresponding larger cylinder bore. The inner workings of the BRABUS engine are modified further by high-performance camshafts and flow-optimized cylinder heads.

The new air intake was custom-developed to fit in the available space under the hood of the S-Class. The combustion air is routed through a special carbon-fiber system. Also newly developed was the BRABUS Biturbo system with two special high-performance manifolds with integrated turbine housings and high-performance turbochargers. The system also includes four water-to-air intercoolers. The BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with sport catalysts and four exhaust tips with BRABUS-characteristic design optimizes power yield and gives the engine a more dominant exhaust note.

Newly calibrated engine electronics with precision-programmed mapping for injection and ignition ensure exemplary power yield and compliance with strict EURO V emission limits. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner MOTUL.

The BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine produces 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available from a low 2,100 rpm. For technical reasons peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission. A BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent is available as an option.

The extraordinary performance figures elevate the BRABUS 800 to the exalted position of the world’s most powerful and fastest luxury sedan. Acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) of 3.9 seconds and of just 10.3 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) are as unmatched in this vehicle category as is the electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).

To ensure that this level of performance can be enjoyed safely at all times BRABUS also significantly upgrades suspension, brakes and aerodynamics.

These upgrades naturally also include tires capable of handling the speeds this car is capable of. The BRABUS 800 can be equipped with BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21 inches. The largest version features wheels in size 9Jx21 on the front axle and in size 10.5Jx21 in the rear. These wheels are available in four distinct designs: Three-piece forged and high-gloss polished BRABUS Monoblock VI wheels with six double spokes, multi-spoke Monoblock E wheels, Monoblock S wheels with double-spoke design and especially exclusive Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels with cross-spoke design. All wheels are mounted with Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA tires in sizes 265/30 ZR 21 in front and 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle.
To further improve the already excellent driving dynamics of the high-performance luxury sedan BRABUS developed an electronics module for the Active Body Control suspension that lowers the ride height by some 15 millimeters (0.6 inches).

Maximum deceleration is even more important than exceptional acceleration and thus the BRABUS high-performance brake system is part of the high-tech package of the BRABUS 800. The brake features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front, and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the rear axle.

BRABUS ensures extremely high directional stability with a sporty yet elegant designer suit developed in the wind tunnel. The BRABUS front fascia lends the S-Class an even more striking face while its sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. The large central air inlet optimizes cooling of engine and front brakes. Integrated auxiliary headlamps and LED daytime running lights further improve active safety. The BRABUS front spoiler lip is made from clear-coated carbon fiber and attaches to the underside of the BRABUS front fascia. It further optimizes the car’s aerodynamic properties.

For an even more extravagant appearance of the sedan BRABUS offers custom-tailored aluminum front fenders that replace their production counterparts. The exclusive character of these fenders is embodied by an integrated air vent made from clear-coated carbon fiber and a horizontal brace that spans the vent with embossed BRABUS signet and integrated LED lights. The latter are activated just like the ones in the BRABUS side sills via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle.

For optimizing the airflow around the sides of the vehicle the designers sculpted BRABUS sill skirts that feature integrated entrance lights for added utility. They are activated by the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle as are the blue-illuminated BRABUS logos integrated into the scuff plates on both sides of the vehicle.

The BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement concept is rounded out by the BRABUS rear spoiler lip, also available in a clear-coated carbon-fiber version, and the new rear fascia with centrally located reflector and custom cutouts for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system. The underside of the rear fascia also features integrated LED lights which illuminate the ground behind the vehicle. They help avoid any unfortunate missteps into puddles or potholes lurking in the dark.

BRABUS combines this high-performance technical feast with exclusive interior options that suit each customer’s personal taste down to the last detail. These options include fully leather interiors in any color imaginable, Alcantara supplements and exclusive wood trim sets which can be ordered in any desired color thanks to an innovative staining technology.

A particular BRABUS specialty is the design of state-of-the-art multimedia packages. A special version of the BRABUS tables was developed to perfectly integrate two iPad 2 tablet computers into the rear compartment. The tables are molded perfectly to the backrest of the front seats with the help of custom-designed consoles. The electrically powered table tops are infinitely adjustable and clad in the same supple leather as the entire interior. High-gloss aluminum borders add further elegance to their appearance. The tables also have custom-designed receptacles for arresting the iPads in portrait or landscape mode in place. A charger integrated into each table automatically recharges the batteries when the computer is inserted in portrait mode.

Not only do the passengers have access to all iPad 2 features, they are also able to control the COMAND system of the S-Class and the two screens integrated into the front headrests with the two computers.

For internet connectivity both iPads are connected to a WLAN router supplied by a 20 Mbps GSM modem with EDGE, HSDPA and HSPA+ protocols. Passengers in the rear can receive and send e-mail and surf the World Wide Web. But that’s not all: the cameras integrated into the two iPads 2 allow videoconferencing while on the move. For entertainment purposes the system also gives access to music or multimedia content such as movies, eBooks or games, either stored on a personal cloud server or retrieved from online resources such as iTunes.

Of course there is also a special BRABUS App for iPad, iPad 2, iPhone and iPod touch. This software is part of the state-of-the-art communications concept of the luxury sedan as well.





















* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.