We're still suffering whiplash from the array of concept vehicles that turned our heads at last month's Frankfurt Motor Show, and several deserve a second, closer look. The Mercedes-Benz Concept S-Class Coupé is among them.
The Concept S-Class firmly outlines the company's vision for its next flagship coupé and a production version is tipped to replace the CL-Class within a year.
Not surprisingly, the Concept takes on a number of Mercedes' recently evolved design elements. The scooped 3D grill is similar to the A-Class, the aggressive stance hints at the SLS AMG and the sweeping headlights with LED eyebrows (now sporting what Mercedes calls a "semicircular counter-swish") tie it to the 2014 S-Class sedan. But while the 2014 S-Class sedan reclines self-assuredly, the Concept S-Class is a little more on edge.
The Concept S-Class rides on 21-inch wheels and its long bonnet, high beltline, prominent nose and staunch rear-end leave no doubt as to the car's aggressive leanings. In profile, the most striking aspect of the B-pillar-less body design is the uninterrupted chrome frame that stretches the full length of the cockpit, while up above there's a full glass roof to ensure that plenty of sunlight sparkles off the waves of white and aluminum in the cabin.
Under the long hood there's a V8 Biturbo engine that produces produces 335 kW (455 hp) and peak torque of 700 Nm.
Mercedes-Benz' "Intelligent Drive" technology is on full display with features like a stereo camera set-up that can detect objects up ahead and provide a 3-D view of the area in front of the vehicle. This also extends to the ability to predict any surprises lurking in the road surface up ahead and adjust the suspension accordingly.
Inside the shiny cockpit drivers are greeted by a 12.3-inch screen which takes care of infotainment and navigation duties while a secondary touch screen located at the head of the center console shows four world clocks of the drivers' choosing. In between instruments the panel, along with the seats, is lined with calfskin and the roofliner is made from hand-woven silk.
So does this design fit the bill as the new top dog in the Mercedes garage? It's a question best pondered while scrolling through our Concept S-Class gallery.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
Toyota, BMW, Audi all presenting comprehensive visions for drive trains and energy supply, going electric, hybrid, syngas and what not.
Now I'm sure that Mercedes will be quick to say "but we have that, too" but it should *really* be prominently presented right here, with the first looks at the new beauty princess. Miss Universe nowadays must know how to spell.