The latest news from Stuttgart is that the iconic Mercedes-Benz S-Class, set to receive a mid-cycle facelift in early 2024, will soon be making its official debut. This update aims to keep the luxury sedan fresh and competitive against rivals like BMW’s upcoming 7 Series.
Key Takeaways
- The S-Class is getting a roof-mounted LiDAR for autonomous driving capabilities, but this feature won’t be available in customer cars.
- Momenta and Mercedes-Benz are partnering to implement Level 4-certified autonomous systems for driverless shuttle services starting in Abu Dhabi.
- Design changes include flashy redesigned headlights with the iconic star-studded theme and new taillights featuring a prominent Mercedes logo.
The S-Class is about to get some exciting updates, including roof-mounted LiDAR technology. But don’t worry; this feature won’t be available in customer cars just yet. It’s part of an ambitious plan by Mercedes-Benz and partner Momenta to create driverless shuttle services using Level 4 autonomous driving systems.
First up is Abu Dhabi for testing, with plans to expand the trials to other locations down the line. This technology aims to turn the S-Class into a robotaxi in certain scenarios, which could revolutionize how we think about luxury cars and transportation.
The design changes are subtle but noticeable. The headlights have been redesigned to feature Mercedes’ star-studded theme, adding some flair without going overboard. Expect new taillights that prominently display the three-pointed-star logo, a trend seen in recent models from the brand.
Underneath all these updates lies an engine lineup that’s getting even more powerful and efficient. The V-12 may still be around for the Maybach version, but it faces challenges with stricter emissions rules across Europe. Still, Mercedes is committed to keeping this iconic option available as long as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will customer cars have LiDAR?
No, the roof-mounted LiDAR system won’t be included in production models. It’s part of an autonomous driving initiative for commercial use.
What about screen sizes?
The S-Class will continue to feature large screens throughout the cabin. Chief designer Gorden Wagener sees them as a necessity, emphasizing their importance in modern luxury vehicles.
In summary, while some features like LiDAR won’t be available for everyday drivers just yet, the 2026 S-Class facelift promises to keep this iconic car at the forefront of automotive technology and design. Stay tuned as we see how these changes evolve over time.
