I participated in the first co-driving of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, getting into prototypes engaged in the final development phase on the roads around Sindelfingen. A hands-on experience, far from static presentations, that allows one to understand how Mercedes-Benz is refining its flagship model ahead of its market release. The new S-Class features the most extensive update ever made in a single generation, with over 50% of its components redesigned or revised. At the heart of the project is the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a unified electronic architecture that manages infotainment, driving assistance, comfort, and vehicle dynamics, designed to stay up-to-date over time thanks to over-the-air updates via cloud. During the co-driving, an approach oriented towards continuity and operational consistency emerges, without invasive solutions for those traveling on board. From a technical standpoint, the engine range is fully electrified and includes six- and eight-cylinder gasoline and diesel units, as well as a plug-in hybrid version with over 100 km of electric range. All engines adopt a 48-Volt mild hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator of 17 kW. Great attention has been dedicated to ride comfort, thanks to the AIRMATIC and E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspensions with intelligent damping management based on Car-to-X data, and the rear steering, standard up to 4.5 degrees, available up to 10 degrees. Production of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will begin in 2026 at the Sindelfingen plant.

Show less
View more