Watch out Bentley and Rolls Royce; here comes the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

By Nick Jaynes March 19, 2013

We knew that with the demise of the Maybach brand and the S-Class slated to fill its shoes, the 2014 S-Class would hit levels of luxury never before seen from Mercedes-Benz. We had no idea, however, how stunning the results would be.

Photographed here in lowlight to accentuate the details, the S-Class features two 12.3-inch displays, one in place of the instrument cluster and the other to run the next-generation COMAND infotainment system.

The new COMAND system supports many new apps controlled directly from the users’ iPhone. As it currently stands, only the iOS devices will be able to control the system. Android and Blackberry interfaces are reportedly still in development, according to Auotcar.

An Intel Atom processor will power the new COMAND, like that in many current laptops. Coupled with the latest Google Maps navigation, the new S-Class will stand as the pinnacle of in-car infotainment.

Mercedes has done away with the Bang & Olufsen sound system and replaced it with one from Burmester. The top-of-the-line version will feature 24 speakers, powered by 1500 watts, to create a 3D sound effect.

As we had reported on before, the 2014 S-Class will feature “Air Balance Package,” which will ionize the cabin as well as dispense perfume. Mercedes make four scents available: freeside, sports, downtown, and nightlife.

We’re absolutely blown away with the new S-Class interior. Not only is the tech outstanding, the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail is beyond anything we had expected.

The S-Class will be revealed in May so check back for more details.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV tries to balance power and efficiency with mild-hybrid V8

Mercedes-Benz GLE580 4Matic

The Mercedes-Benz GLE luxury SUV is adding V8 muscle, but that doesn't mean Mercedes is ignoring fuel economy. The GLE580 model's twin-turbocharged V8 adds more power to the recently redesigned SUV, but the bigger engine is teamed with a mild-hybrid system aimed at keeping gas mileage at a respectable level. The GLE580 launches in the United States alongside the rest of the redesigned 2020 GLE lineup later this year.

On its own, the 4.0-liter V8 makes 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, according to Mercedes. A 48-volt electrical system and starter-generator can produce an extra 21 hp and 184 lb.-ft. for short periods. Electricity for the hybrid system is harvested under braking and stored in a small battery pack. In addition to providing a temporary power boost, it also powers accessories like the water pump and air-conditioning compressor, taking some of the workload off the engine. Mercedes didn't divulge gas mileage figures, so it's unclear exactly how effective all of these measures are at saving fuel. The same powertrain will also be used in the larger Mercedes-Benz GLS.

Cars

Mercedes-Benz safety-car concept monitors the road ahead and your kids

Mercedes-Benz ESF 2019

Before humans give up the wheel for good, Mercedes-Benz believes there will be a transitional period where people and machines share the workload. The German automaker's Experimental Safety Vehicle (abbreviated ESF, for some reason) 2019 was designed to demonstrate how that could work. This safety-focused concept car is capable of driving itself, according to Mercedes, but also features safety tech to help human drivers.

Based on a Mercedes-Benz GLE, the ESF 2019 is capable of driving itself in most situations but still has a steering wheel and pedals. When the vehicle is in autonomous mode, they retract into the dashboard to lessen the possibility of injuries in a crash (yes, Mercedes acknowledges that even self-driving cars can crash). Mercedes moved the airbags around so that they will work regardless of how everything is positioned.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Ford Mustang Mach-E: Will the R2 be a better buy?

Side of the Rivian R2

The Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it could end up being the go-to EV for drivers who want a decently affordable electric car with a rugged look and feel. But when it finally launches to the public, it won't be the only option in its price range -- the Ford Mustang Mach-E could be one of its main competitors.

The Mustang Mach-E may not be quite as rugged-feeling as the Rivian R2, but it does have a lot going for it -- like an increasingly low price, sleek design, and comfortable interior. Is one of these EVs better than the other? We put the two head-to-head to find out.
Design
The first thing to note about the two cars is their design, as they’re pretty different. The Rivian R2 is built to be a little more rugged and outdoorsy, while the Mach-E instead has a sleeker and sportier look to it. Both cars look stylish and modern.