A few days ago, we told you about the demise of the SLS in order to make way for its successor codenamed C190.  In case you missed it, according to our good friends in Germany, Mercedes-Benz will stop production of all SLS models in the first half of 2014.

Today, reports have surfaced that Mercedes-Benz will drop the twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter after the current-generation S63 AMG.  Not nearly as dramatic an announcement as the dropping of an entire model line but we still had to ask why.

For those unfamiliar, inside the 2014 S 63 AMG is the M157 is a Euro 6-compliant twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter gasoline engine that is capable of producing 585 bhp (436 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft).  AMG chief Tobias Moers revealed that the mill cannot receive a power hike without a negative impact on its reliability.  He did not offer up any information on whether or not other S-Class models would receive this engine as well but it is more than likely that the recently revealed S-Class coupe and the convertible will also receive it.

We will keep you posted as additional information is revealed.

After several rounds of S-Class Spy photos, this is the first time we’ve gotten to see the 2013 S-Class up close, enabling us to catch a glimpse of the updated interior.  The new flagship model in the Mercedes’ range will adopt the Aesthetic S design.  We can expect to see a sculpted hood, LED-infused headlights, bigger grille, CL-inspired taillights and a dual exhaust setup.

The interior of the new S-Class will boast two large LCDs, one for replacing the analog instruments and the other will be a multifunction touchscreen display to control climate, satellite navigation, communication and entertainment systems.

As for what’s under the hood, the S-Class will receive the company’s new “MoVe” modular V6 and V8 engines, as well as a hybrid version expected to return 71.2 mpg (85.6 mpg UK or 3.3 liters / 100 km) and complete the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in less than six seconds. The S63 AMG will probably use a twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine with more than 550 hp (410 kW) and 590 lb-ft (799 Nm) of torque

The new S-Class is scheduled to be unveiled later this year.

UPDATE: View the video below for another look at the S-Class while parked on a street in Stuttgart.

Via: WCF

Our good friends over at GMotors caught the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class testing in Spain. The latest spy photos reveal new details and overall shape thanks to the minimal camouflage.  Also appearing on the test vehicle is a new line starting from the headlights, going back to the rear door.

From the interior photos, we can see a new instrument panel with two large LCD screens, one of the screens replaces the regular analog instruments while the other one is a touchscreen display for controlling entertainment, navigation, climate and communication.

As previously reported, engine options will include a wide range of diesel and petrol units. A plug-in hybrid with a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and a 60bhp electric motor is also rumoured.

Radar based Distronic PLUS with Steering Assist, which helps the driver to maintain the desired distance in stop and go traffic, steering Wizard, which uses cameras to detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and makes the car drive at slower speeds are a few of the technical features on the new S-Class. There is also Brake Assist PLUS with crossover wizard, which uses camera and radar sensors, helping to prevent rear-end collisions, new Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS, Traffic sign assistant, Night View Assist PLUS and new Parking Assistant will park your car automatically, taking over even the brakes.

Our thanks to Andrus and GMotors for the photos.

While the world premiere of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will take place in May / June 2013, they have released the first information about the car’s new technology.

Our good friends in Germany have, in advance, some information about the new technology, in the form of handy display graphics. One of the most interesting features is the system including Distronic PLUS with Steering Assist. The system helps the driver to maintain the desired distance – even in stop and go traffic. The basic function of radar-based Distronic PLUS is now extended to the steering wizard, which assists the driver in the lateral control of the vehicle. The camera detects lane markings and vehicles ahead and makes the car drive at slower speeds.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

The Brake Assist PLUS with crossover wizard provides brake support, even when crossing traffic. Using a new camera and radar sensors, the system helps to prevent rear-end collisions – even when crossing traffic.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

The new Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS on the new S-Class also allows for glare-free high beams using the standard LED headlights. The mechanics in the headlamp module hides the field in the light cone, which is found in other vehicles – in order to prevent glare. The high beam is switched on so permanent, allowing for maximum visibility. A glare from reflective plates will cause the system to selectively dim the lights – the system will work at night on roads without street lighting.

The traffic sign assistant has now been extended and now offers the detection of overtaking and entry.

The Night View Assist PLUS will warn against animals and people -they will be illuminated several times by a Spotlight feature.

The 2013 S-Class will also ise parking assistant to park fully automatic – even the brakes will be taken over by the technology.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

And last but not least, in the new S-Class, there are not normal bulbs, instead the vehicle is fully equipped with LED technology and, the belts for the passengers now have an airbag..

In short, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be the safest car on the road and pretty much drive itself.

Source: Mercedes-Benz Passion

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has remained the best selling luxury saloon since 1951, selling more than 3.5 million vehicles.  The S-Class has a long and rich tradition that goes all the way back to the early days of the Mercedes brand.  The Mercedes-Benz brand and specifically the S-Class is synonymous with high-end vehicles, but Mercedes’ emphasis on luxury, comfort and safety had been firmly established long before the S-Class was given its official designation.

This tradition follows the philosophy of a car that is always a reflection of the times. After all, with each new generation of its top-of-the-range vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has always provided convincing responses to the wishes and needs of each specific era. In a phrase that sums up the importance of the model’s history right through to the present day, the S-Class and its predecessors are, and have always been, the epitome of the perfect car.

Captivating in the sum of its qualities

Thanks to the innovative technology, high level of comfort and ground-breaking safety systems in every generation, the flagship model from Mercedes-Benz is considered a pioneer of automotive engineering – and of the industry as a whole, as many technical features offered by Mercedes-Benz for the first time in a series production car with the S-Class were subsequently also adopted by other car manufacturers.

This pioneering role has been a constant throughout the company’s history and it is still an important aspect at Mercedes-Benz today. There is hardly any other vehicle with which Mercedes-Benz is identified more closely than the S-Class. Due to the sum of its characteristics, it is a benchmark for the entire Mercedes-Benz brand and is considered the best in its class throughout the industry.

The S-Class embodies the image of premium-class Mercedes-Benz vehicles: it is the automotive essence of a lifestyle characterised by the highest possible standards of mobility and individuality, and stands for the ultimate in success and good taste. Not for nothing has the S-Class been acclaimed again and again as the best car in the world.

The world’s best-selling luxury vehicle

Since 1951, when the production of luxury class saloons resumed for the first time since the end of the Second World War, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 3.5 million high-end saloons. This makes the S-Class and its predecessors the most successful model series in this segment. The current model series 221 has continued the success story by selling more than 500,000 units since its market launch in autumn 2005.

A unique tradition stretching back to the early Mercedes days

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class looks back on a unique tradition. Since the early days of the Mercedes brand at the start of the 20th century, its model range has focused around premium-class vehicles. Mercedes-Benz dominated the high-end, luxury segment right from the start and helped to shape automotive developments in every era like no other marque.

From W 187 to ‘Ponton Mercedes’ (1951 to 1959)

The direct ancestral line of the S-Class begins in the post-war period with the type 220 (W 187) which marked the return of Mercedes-Benz to the luxury segment in 1951 – six years after the end of the Second World War and after the first phase of Germany’s reconstruction was complete. In 1954, this was followed by a completely new model with the same designation. This new type 220, also known internally as the 220 a (W 180), was the first Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder model with a unitized body design. Its ultra-modern, spacious ‘ponton’ body offered previously unheard of levels of comfort. With the launch of the overhauled and more powerful type 220 S in 1956, the ‘S’ designation became a permanent fixture in the names of high-end Mercedes-Benz models, underlining the special status of the ponton six-cylinder. 1958 saw the launch of the 220 SE (W 128), an even more powerful version of the flagship model thanks to fuel injection. As with the 300 d (W 189) luxury limousine introduced one year earlier, the vehicle’s performance and efficiency were enhanced by manifold injection.

Mercedes-Benz 220 (W 180, 1954 to 1956). The car in the photo dates from 1955

From ‘fintail’ to high-performance saloon (1959 to 1972)

The ‘fintail’ models introduced in 1959 (220, 220 S and 220 SE (W 111)) earned their nickname from the understated tail fins that adorned the rear wing. Owing to their function as a parking aid, they were also officially known as ‘sight lines’. The new high-end generation represented a very special milestone in automotive history, as this was the first time that the safety bodyshell with crumple zones devised by Béla Barényi had been used on a series production car. The flagship model presented in 1961, the 300 SE (W 112), was fitted as standard with air suspension and the newly developed automatic transmission from Mercedes-Benz, and its longer version in 1963 started off a tradition in luxury class saloons by Mercedes-Benz: the wheelbase, which was now 10 centimetres longer, offered rear passengers significantly more legroom and comfort. The 108 and 109 sedans, which replaced the 1965 ‘Fintail’, were characterised by a timelessly elegant design and large windows. In addition to the models fitted with conventional steel springs – referred to internally as the 108 series –, there was also an air-sprung variant of the model series 109, which was also available from the outset with a 10 cm longer wheelbase. Special highlights included the 300 SEL 6.3 presented in 1968. The new top-of-the-range model in the series was fitted with the high-performance V8 engine from the high-end Mercedes-Benz 600 sedan. In addition to exceptional comfort and luxurious interior fittings, it also rivalled the performance of a sports car.

Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (W 111, 1959 to 1965). The car in the photo dates from 1964

Model series 116 (1972 to 1980)

The name of the next-generation 116 launched in 1972 also reflected what had been on the agenda at Mercedes-Benz for decades: all luxury sedans with an ‘S’ in their model designation were now officially referred to as ‘S-Class’. The new designation went hand in hand with a whole bundle of innovations that set new standards in respect of safety and comfort. The comprehensive safety concept included a collision-proof fuel tank, a four-spoke safety steering wheel, dirt-deflecting side windows, larger headlamps, distinctive turn signal lamps and dirt-deflecting ribbed rear lamps. 1977 saw the dawn of the diesel age in the premium class with the 300 SD, although this was initially just in the North American markets. The luxury diesel was also the first series production car with a turbo-diesel engine. From 1978, the S-Class was the first series production vehicle to be fitted with ABS (anti-lock braking system), which ensured that the vehicle would respond fully to the driver’s steering action even in an emergency braking situation. A global sensation, this ground-breaking innovation is now standard across all vehicle categories. The S-Class underlined its status as an automotive engineering benchmark and its model designation became a generic term for high-end vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 116 series (1972 to 1980). The 450 SEL 6.9 model in the photo dates from 1980

Model series 126 (1979 to 1991)

The transfer of technology from the S-Class to other Mercedes-Benz model series and to competitor vehicles before becoming the generally accepted technology standard continued in the years that followed, turning the S-Class into a genuine trendsetter. The airbag, now a key component of automotive safety, made its debut in 1981, in the model series 126 which had been launched two years earlier. Other features from this S-Class generation included the aerodynamically-enhanced shape and systematic weight reduction through the use of elements such as the new light-alloy V8 engines. The model series 126 also set the trend in terms of its design: it was the first Mercedes-Benz passenger car to do away with the traditional chrome bumpers in favour of deformable plastic ones built to withstand a ‘parking dent’. Initially felt by some observers to be plain and tasteless, the design of the model series 126 soon came to be regarded as timeless and elegant.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 126 series (1979 to 1991). The 500 SEL model in the photo dates from 1982

Model series 140 (1991 to 1998)

The S-Class of the model series 140 represented the new superlative at Mercedes-Benz in 1991. Its developers were aiming for maximum comfort, not least due to the larger dimensions and double glazing for optimum acoustic insulation. The top models, 600 SE and 600 SEL, were the first series production cars at Mercedes-Benz to feature a V12 engine. The entry model was the 300 SD turbo-diesel, which now brought luxury class to the diesel segment in the markets outside of North America too. This generation of the S-Class also introduced a pioneering safety innovation to the world of automotive engineering: the ESP® Electronic Stability Program which was fitted as standard on the V12 versions and was available as an option on the V8 models from 1995 onwards. The following year also saw the addition of the BAS Brake Assist System.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 140 series (1991 to 1998). The S 600 model with a long wheelbase in the photo dates from 1994

Model series 220 (1998 to 2005)

After the model change in 1998, the appearance of the new S-Class (model series 220) was all about understatement. Weight saving and a further increase in safety and comfort were among the primary development goals. Despite having to abandon weight-intensive features such as double glazing, the new model generation offered even greater comfort, not least due to the new electronically controlled AIRMATIC air suspension, COMAND control and display system, and innovative DISTRONIC proximity-controlled cruise control system. Active Body Control (ABC), which was available from 1999, reduced body roll for an as yet unsurpassed level of driving dynamics. The interior design which, for the first time, had been developed in close conjunction with the exterior, created an inimitable ambience in the S-Class. The first AMG model to officially make its way into the S-Class price list, the S 55 AMG appealed to customers with a passion for speed. Even the regular high-end model without the AMG sports badge, the S 600, had its performance boosted in autumn 2002, making it capable of reaching the magical 368 kW (500 hp) mark for the first time ever. At the same time, the model series 220 saw the introduction of another ground-breaking innovation: the PRE-SAFE preventive occupant safety system. This system enabled the vehicle to prepare occupants for an imminent collision by automatically initiating measures for their optimum protection. As part of the model refinement, the S-Class could now also be equipped with intelligent 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive for the first time.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 220 series (1998 to 2005). The S 400 CDI model in the photo dates from 2002

Model series 221 (2005 to 2013)

The model generation 221 presented in 2005 combined an expressive exterior with a high-grade, luxury interior. The advanced COMAND system included a controller on the central tunnel for quick and intuitive operation of the increasingly complex functions and menus. Other pioneering technical innovations included active Night View Assist, advanced DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and Brake Assist Plus, which was upgraded to the PRE-SAFE brake with autonomous partial braking in 2006. Further assistance systems such as Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist helped to further reduce the strain on the driver and brought the Mercedes-Benz S-Class one step closer to the vision of safe, accident-free driving. This generation of the S-Class also set new standards in terms of improved physiological safety, which was demonstrated by comparing the heart rates of various drivers. In this respect, too, the S-Class proved that its extremely sound basis established over more than 40 years could still be improved upon.

The upgraded generation of the 221 series was launched in 2009. The S 400 HYBRID was the first luxury Mercedes-Benz model with a hybrid drive and the first series production car with a lithium-ion battery. Other prime examples of efficiency were the S 350 BlueTEC model introduced in 2010 – a particularly clean diesel – and the S 350 and S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY featuring petrol engines that were extremely efficient, yet powerful thanks to direct fuel injection. Finally, at the start of 2011, Mercedes-Benz introduced a highly efficient four-cylinder engine to the S-Class in the shape of the S 250 CDI. Its diesel powerplant delivered the consumption figures one would expect of a compact car, previously unachieved by a vehicle in the luxury class – without any compromise in terms of performance and comfort.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 221 series (2005 to 2013). The S 500 model in the photo dates from 2007

The roots of the S-Class

The unique tradition of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class did not begin with the type 220 (W 187) in 1951; its roots stretch right back to the very origins of the Mercedes brand at the start of the 20th century. An early, eye-catching example is the Mercedes-Simplex 60 PS launched in 1903. The then top-of-the-range model is now one of the most spectacular exhibits in the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection. The elegant and luxurious touring sedan from 1904 was once owned by Emil Jellinek, a key protagonist in the early history of the Mercedes brand.

In the years to follow, the Mercedes and Benz sales ranges always included several high-end, luxury models. Even though open-top tourers were by far the most commonly-used body form during this period, the more powerful models were also offered as luxury sedans affording the ultimate in passenger comfort.

In the mid-1920s it was a different picture. Due to ever more powerful engines and increasing volumes of traffic, which the road-building programme was unable to keep up with, safe handling characteristics, a comfortable interior and optimum protection against wind, rain and dust were becoming more and more important. Saloons and Pullman saloons gradually began to replace the open-top tourers. The important high-end, luxury models of this era were the six-cylinder compressor 15/70/100 PS and 24/100/140 PS, produced under the Mercedes marque at the end of 1924. In 1926, the merger of the two previously independent companies founded by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler led to the creation of Daimler-Benz AG, which added the first Mercedes-Benz production car with an eight-cylinder engine, the Nürburg 460 (W 08), to its model range in 1928. It remained in the sales programme – with continuous further development – until 1939. The last model was the type 500. From 1926 onwards, the entry-level vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz high-end range was the six-cylinder 12/55 PS, which was continually refined and developed through to the launch of the Mercedes-Benz Mannheim 370 (W 10) in 1931. The completely new Mercedes-Benz 290 (W 18) followed in 1933, but went on to be replaced by the type 320 (W 142) in 1937.

Mercedes-Benz Nürburg (W 08, 1928 to 1933). The Nürburg 460 in the photo dates from 1929

High-end saloons

In addition to vehicles from the high-end, luxury segment, Mercedes-Benz has always offered cars that represent a major advancement. They not only meet the highest standards in terms of safety, comfort and style: due to their status as an absolutely top-of-the-range model, extremely luxurious ambience and particularly opulent and spacious interior, they are primarily tailored to meet the requirements of individuals who need to, or have to, reflect their status in the choice of their vehicle, too. In this category was the Mercedes-Benz ‘Super Mercedes’ launched in 1930, also known as the type 770. Powered by a large-displacement eight-cylinder engine with supercharging, this top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz model was used as an automotive statement, primarily by crowned and uncrowned heads of state and high-ranking figures from the world of industry and finance.

The ‘Adenauer Mercedes’ (1951 to 1962)

After the Second World War, Mercedes-Benz once again dominated the luxury class automotive segment. The type 300 (W 186) made its debut in 1951 along with the type 220 at the first International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt am Main. When it was launched, the new flagship model from Mercedes-Benz was the fastest German production car with a top speed of 160 km/h. The 300 was also the first official state vehicle produced in Germany after the war and therefore represents, like no other model, Germany’s return to the international stage. The German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer was given one of the first examples of this model in December 1951 and, from then on, he would be driven around in nothing other than a type 300. Consequently, the high-end model became popularly known as the ‘Adenauer Mercedes’. The type 300 was completely revised in 1957 and was given the internal designation 300 d (W 189). The ‘d’ stood for the fact that this was the fourth version (after the 300, 300 b, and 300 c). The car’s higher engine output was thanks to fuel injection which, for the first time, was no longer direct fuel injection, but manifold injection. The longer wheelbase and larger body resulted in greater comfort, as did the optional electronic power steering and air conditioning – both of which were anything but commonplace at the time. The air conditioning system, known back then as the ‘cooling system’, was available at an extra cost of DM 3,500 – about the same as it would have cost for an entire VW Beetle at the end of the 1950s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 (W 186 / W 189, 1951 to 1962). The car in the photo dates from 1952

The legendary type 600 (1963 to 1981)

One and a half years after the last 300 rolled off the production line in Sindelfingen in March 1963, a new top-of-the-range model from Mercedes-Benz made its debut at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. The type 600 (W 100) was a superlative vehicle: its 6.3-litre V8 engine delivered an extremely respectable performance and a top speed in excess of 200 km/h. Optimum ride comfort was ensured by air suspension, an automatic transmission manufactured in-house and electronic power steering. Unique hydraulic comfort features enabled adjustment of the front seats and rear bench, opening and closing of the doors, boot lid and optional sliding roof, and opening and closing of the side windows. The five to six-seater version with a regular wheelbase of 3200 millimetres was predominantly ordered by highly discerning private customers. In addition, Mercedes-Benz also offered a seven to eight-seater version with a 70 cm longer wheelbase, which was primarily used as an official state or ceremonial limousine. In June 1981, the last of a total of 2,677 examples of the legendary luxury saloon was produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen. It was driven straight to Untertürkheim, where it was given pride of place in the company’s vehicle collection.

Mercedes-Benz 600 (W 100, 1963 to 1981). The car in the photo dates from 1963

Present and future

Over 20 years later, the company was once again dominating the high-end luxury saloon segment: with the Maybach 57 and Maybach 62 models, which were built in exclusive limited editions to the individual specifications of their discerning buyers at the Sindelfingen plant between 2002 and 2012.

From 2013 onwards, Mercedes-Benz will take its long-established tradition of building luxury, high-end vehicles into the future with the new S-Class (model series 222).

At the Paris Motor Show, scheduled for the end of September, Mercedes will bring a sculpture called “Aesthetics S”.  A teaser for the 2013 flagship luxury saloon.  Gordon Wagener,  Mercedes’s Head of Design, said that the new model will follow a tradition of expression of automotive culture that was set forth by previous generations as well as having striking lines that will put a new face on Mercedes-Benz designs over the coming years.

The debut of the relief-like sculpture at the Paris Motor Show will be combined with an exciting projection display. The scene will be set for the sculpture with the aid of light in a series of three acts, using a modern means of design and implementation.

With its sculpture entitled “Aesthetics S”, Mercedes-Benz is providing an artistic glimpse of the design of the luxury saloon of the foreseeable future. The aesthetics of the relief-like sculpture are combined with an exciting projection display. In the eyes of the observer, this creates a three-dimensional world and enables the creative imagination of the designers to be visualised to impressive effect. The modern production in three acts, developed by the Mercedes-Benz designers, will be on display in Hall 1 at the Paris Motor Show (September 27 to October 14, 2012).

Since the 1930s, the respective top-of-the-range model from Mercedes-Benz has played a very special role – not only for Mercedes-Benz, but also for the automotive world in general. An S-Class does not merely represent the latest state of the art, and as such acts rather more as a symbol and role model for the motor car. “The characteristic lines of the S-Class have always represented the expression of automotive culture, as we understand it. The new S-Class will continue this tradition and, with its striking lines, will put a face to our design philosophy over the coming years”, explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Sculptural shapes, which are given structure and an element of excitement through characteristic lines, are a classic feature of Mercedes-Benz design. Reducing them to a relief-like design incorporating the main elements of the sidewall makes the power and significance of the lines visible and perceivable. In the case of the “Aesthetics S” sculpture, the exterior of a future luxury saloon is interpreted in an artistic manner. According to Wagener: “The sculpture highlights the artistic aspects of design. With the design and proportions of “Aesthetics S”, we are communicating a modern sense of status, sensual shapes and stylish sportiness.”

The debut of the relief-like sculpture at the Paris Motor Show will be combined with an exciting projection display. The scene will be set for the sculpture with the aid of light in a series of three acts, using a modern means of design and implementation. The shape will be revealed through projected light reflections, creating a three-dimensional world in which the creative imagination of the designers can be visualised to impressive effect. In addition to the organic, naturally-occurring flowing forms which act as a source of inspiration to the designers, it will also possible to appreciate the scope of impact exerted by the S-Class tradition. This is to be achieved by incorporating four S-Class models from past decades – namely the model series 189, 108, 126 and 221. According to Wagener: “The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has always impressed with its timeless design, which has existed for decades and has always pointed the way ahead. The sculpture is a continuation of this, and sets the scene for the development of a new S-Class.”

With the “Aesthetics S” work of art, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its “Aesthetics” series of sculptures which to date comprises the pieces “Aesthetics No. 1” (2010), “Aesthetics No. 2” and “Aesthetics 125” (both 2011).

Leaked images of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class have hit the web, and thanks to our good friend Markus, we have them for you.

The images shown here, click to enlarge to full screen, seem to have come from the development department of Mercedes-Benz and show the rear view, giving us an good idea of what we can expect from the future S-Class.

As a reminder of what to expect on the inside, here is one of the interior spy photos we brought you last month.  The interior photos of the next-generation Mercedes S-Class interior leave little to the imagination, we can see an updated digital dashboard, automatic gearshift on the right side of the steering wheel, new steering wheel, vents, aluminium and wood trim. Click to see more of the interior of the future S-Class.

For more spy photos and videos of the next-gen S-Class, click here.

The clever spy photographers across the pond at GMotors have managed to capture the first, nearly undisguised, interior photos of the 2013 S-Class. Last week we brought you a video of the future S-Class testing in Spain, revealing its larger grille, singular headlamps and overall shape. The interior photos of the next-generation Mercedes S-Class interior leave little to the imagination, we can see an updated digital dashboard, automatic gearshift on the right side of the steering wheel, new steering wheel, vents, aluminium and wood trim.

As always, thank to our good friends at GMotors for sharing their photos with us.

It is the second time this year that a biker has captured the best spy videos of a Mercedes-Benz test mule. Earlier this year, a biker captured the A-Class prior to launch on the Lanzarote, and today the 2014 S-Class was spotted testing in Spain.  For more spy photos and renderings of the next-gen S-Class, click here.

Mercedes’ new flagship will take several of its new design cues from the F700 concept that we saw debut back in ’07. More specifically, we can expect to see a larger, more upright grille and redesigned headlamps incorporating LED running lights. Based on the video and past spy photos, the shape of the saloon won’t change much from the current S-Class.

As for the engine, expect to see Mercedes’ latest lineup of engines, the 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 as well as some V6 options. Without question, an AMG model will also follow suit with the new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S63 AMG.

Many of you have been asking us what to expect from the 2013 Mercedes Model Year.  Below is a break down of each model and what stands out on each variant.  Overall, you will see next generation telematics service move into the Cloud as it debuts as standard equipment on most 2013 models. Doing this will add Internet access, more features for interacting with the vehicle remotely, and over-the-air diagnostic capabilities to the first generation’s array of safety, destination planning and concierge features. Optional Mercedes-Benz Apps will add custom versions of Google local search with Street View and Panoramio, Facebook, News and Yelp, with others planned.  Additionally, new “Control” functionality provides geofencing, Speed Alert, Driving Journal and Curfew-minder services.  And last but not least, added protection features from a mobile application (iPhone/Android) that gives you control of the Remote Horn & Lights and Valet Protect.

C-Class Sedan & Coupe (on-sale: July 2012)

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class will include a convertible variant. Could it be true this time, will Mercedes actually produce a model similar to the one they teased us with way back in 2007. Reports are in that Mercedes wants to compete and fill the gap in the range where Maybach was.

Those in the know at Mercedes revealed to CarAdvice that the S-Class convertible will be based on the company’s Ocean Drive concept, the concept revealed to us back in 2007. Taking its folding fabirc roof from the Ocean Drive, but the production S-Class Cabrio will instead be a two-door.

We can also expect the new S-Class convertible to feature the company’s Airscarf neck-warming technology. Debuted in the 2004 on the Mercedes SLK roadster, the system pumps warm air through vents incorporated into the seats, in the S-Class, it will likely be pumped to all four seats.

Engine options in the S-Class convertible will likely be limited compared to the standard model however, expect to see a diesel and powerful V12 in the mix.

Mercedes-Benz is nearing completion of its 2013 S-Class sedan, with the latest prototypes recently spotted testing in Europe.  Sporting the least amount of camouflage to date, we are able to closely compare the latest renderings of the S-Class to the real thing.

Set for a reveal later this year as a 2013 model, the new S-Class will likely be slightly longer than this year’s model, and will be offered with a wide range of fuel efficient engines consisting of I4, V6 and V8 gasoline and BlueTEC diesel units.  For those craving the latest green technology, Mercedes-Benz will offer the S 400 HYBRID (‘mild’) boasting over 300 hp as well as the all new S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID delivering around 415 hp.  And, in case you were wondering whether the S 600 version would be lost amidst the new trend of fuel efficiency, fret not, as a new V12 powerplant outputting over 550 hp is currently in the works and will likely be ready in time for the S-Class market launch. Lastly, we can’t forget to mention the  AMG versions of the 2013 S-Class: the S 63 AMG with 544 hp and the S 65 AMG with 630 hp.

Design wise, look for the next generation S-Class to have a much larger grille than previous generations; a markedly sculpted hood and LED-infused headlights; and a dual exhaust system and taillights similar to those seen on the CL-Class.

The first photos in the gallery are the most recent spy photos, and I’ve also added a collection of prior 2013 S-Class Spy Photos for your viewing enjoyment. Spy photos from Bknard via WCF.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is currently completing testing and will be unveiled later this year. But, for those of you that can’t wait, the graphic design artist Wild-Speed has done an awesome job rendering what the finished S-Class could look like.

The renderings from Benzboost feature a single frame grille that sits atop central air intakes with additional vents on the outside of the front fascia with incorporate LED daytime running lights. The headlights meanwhile show A unique design is shown for the headlights that seem very similar to the ones seen on the camouflaged prototypes.

The drivetrain choices will not be surprising with the Mercedes S550 getting the M278 turbo V8 motor and the S63 AMG getting the 5.5 liter M157 twin turbo V8 with an optional Performance Package. We should also see the return of the S65 AMG featuring the same twin turbo V12 that is in the new SL. Expect this car as a 2013 model and enjoy the renderings in various colors below.

We’ve been bringing you spy photos of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class for over a year now, and we can say with certainty, the new S-Class will take a completely new design direction.  Major design elements that stand out in the rendering are the grille, looking extremely similar to the F700 Research Vehicle, headlights, bumper as well as side body contour lines.

One thing to note, however, is the second side contour line extending from the rear door handle to the rear quarter panel won’t exist.  Instead the front contour line will extend and terminate at the rear door handle, similar to the current Mercedes CLS.

Photos via AutoEvolution

Testing in -22 degree Swedish weather, the next generation S-Class once again took to the streets wrapped in a black blanket of camouflage. While still heavily covered, we are able to see that the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan looks to have smaller front lights with LED indicators that what we see on the current model. Hints of the F700 Concept can be seen in the S-Class Grille, having a more upright slope.

As we saw on previous spy photos, the new Mercedes S-Class appears to be longer in length and boasts a slightly bigger wheelbase.

In terms of power, look for the 2013 S-Class to note a range of more fuel efficient engines, with Mercedes’ new direct injection power plants providing a solid range to work with. The 2011 CL-Class should serve as a good starting point of what we can look forward to under the hood, with the addition of a new plug-in option based on the Vision S500 Plug-In Hybrid. Of course, look for both S63 AMG and S65 AMG models as well.

The new S-Class is expected to make its world debut later this year, with sales starting in early 2012.

A big thanks to Andrus and GMotors for the photos.

Flaunting itself in a what looks like a faux leather jacket, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class took to the streets in Germany, only to be caught by photographers. Based on the latest batch of spy photos and those we have seen in the past, the new Mercedes S-Class appears to be longer in length and boasts a slightly bigger wheelbase.

In terms of power, look for the 2013 S-Class to note a range of more fuel efficient engines, with Mercedes’ new direct injection power plants providing a solid range to work with. The 2011 CL-Class should serve as a good starting point of what we can look forward to under the hood, with the addition of a new plug-in option based on the Vision S500 Plug-In Hybrid. Of course, look for both S63 AMG and S65 AMG models as well.

Other than that, not much is known regarding the 2013 Mercedes S-Class, but stay tuned and we’ll keep you posted as new details are revealed. In the meantime, you can check out more 2013 S-Class spy photos in the gallery below.