The next-gen Mercedes-Benz S-Class have been out testing in preparation for the model series that is set for launch in two years’ time. The prototypes have been spotted out in the street in Germany, in the vicinity of the Sindelfingen plant.

The premium sedan should hit the showrooms in 2020, as a 2021 model. The car keeps the familiar proportions and elegant lines, keeping up with the contemporary design, but it will get a slightly wider track and an elongated bonnet, placed a bit lower, all providing it with an impressive stance on the road.

Introduced back in 2014, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222 skyrocketed all the way up in the lead, dominating the premium sedans market. The arrival of the additional body styles, such as the coupe, the Maybach and the Pullman, with the latter two at the top of the list for the Chinese customers, made the sales figures bloom.

The sedan will be based on the new MRA platform, replacing the updated version of its predecessor’s structure, that has just received a mid-cycle facelift. That is exactly why Mercedes is literally keeping the next-gen model under wraps.

Following the electrification strategy, the S-Class family will surely integrate a mild-hybrid or a plug-in hybrid version, with a 3.0-liter inline-6 and a 4.0-liter V8 making their rounds across the range. If the already trademarked EQS will be based on an S-Class remains to be seen.

The limo will benefit from the presence of highly advanced autonomous driving systems, with Level 3 autonomous driving available. The system allows the driver to relax behind the wheel, yet constantly requiring the confirmation of his attention and asking him to take over.  The new MBUX system, that made its debut with the new A-Class, is expected to find room in the classier and more sophisticated cabin of the S-Class.

There will be multiple body styles available in the S-Class family, starting with the normal wheelbase sedan and ending with the extra-long Pullman. They will be built in the new Factory 56, part of the Sindelfingen production center.

Photo source: Quattroruote.it