Paris show: Benz teases next S-Class

MERCEDES-BENZ will preview its new-generation S-Class flagship with a special three-dimensional light show at the Paris motor show on September 27.

Rather than build a physical sculpture or concept vehicle, Benz will instead use a special three-act projection display to show the lines of its next large sedan in full 3D.

Mercedes claims the projection display of the vehicle – called ‘Aesthetics S’ – will give Paris punters some idea of the production version of the S-Class, and will create “a three-dimensional world (that) enables the creative imagination of the designers to be visualised to impressive effect”.

First images of the Aesthetics S ‘sculpture’ indicate the next S-Class will feature similar overall proportions to the current generation, but will get far more dynamic and exciting character lines on its flanks, similar in execution to Benz’s new A- and B-Class models.

The production S-Class is tipped to appear at the Geneva motor show in March 2013, but GoAuto understands that Benz may instead opt to premiere the car at Auto Shanghai one month later as a result of booming S-Class sales in China.

Either way, the new Mercedes flagship will carry on the tradition of previous generations by debuting a host of innovative new technologies before they filter down to more attainable models in the line-up toward the second half of the decade.

World-first technology will include a braking airbag under the nose to reduce impact speed, airbags in the rear seatbelts and ‘intelligent’ suspension that can scan road surfaces ahead and adjust accordingly.

Mercedes-Benz Asia/Pacific manager of corporate communications Jerry Stamoulis told GoAuto today that the production S-Class was on track to hit Australian showrooms by the end of 2013.

Mercedes-Benz Cars head of design Gorden Wagener said the reveal of a new S-Class was a special event because of the model’s place at the pinnacle of the Benz range, and that the Aesthetics S relief sculpture would point the way forward for the company’s future designs.

"The characteristic lines of the S-Class have always represented the expression of automotive culture, as we understand it,” he said.

“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.

“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.”

Alongside the Aesthetics S, Mercedes is expected to debut the production version of its long-awaited CLA sedan at the Paris show, as previewed by the Concept Style Coupe in April.

The company is also understood to be gearing up to display an array of future technologies at the show.