2021 MERCEDES S-CLASS REVEAL NEW GENERATION S CLASS S-KLASSE V223 BASE VS AMG-LINE

EV Channels Review

The 2021 Mercedes S-Class (V223) presents an evolutionary exterior design, maintaining its classic S-Class silhouette while incorporating slimmer headlamps and a wider grille. The interior, however, marks a revolutionary shift with a completely new design and user interface, featuring a prominent 12.8-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. While the design is praised, the reviewer finds the user interface, particularly the capacitive steering wheel controls and reliance on the touchscreen, to be more complicated and less intuitive than previous generations, even comparing it unfavorably to Tesla's software. The reviewer highlights the introduction of rear-axle steering as a significant technological advancement, improving maneuverability. Comfort is a strong suit, with plush, sofa-like seats and optional heating, though the reviewer notes that large luxury SUVs now offer a more upright and potentially more comfortable rear seating position. Safety innovations include an optional rear-seat airbag. Engine options range from inline-six petrol and diesel to V8s, with a plug-in hybrid offering a 100 km electric range. The car is also available with hardware for Level 3 autonomous driving, pending regulatory approval. Overall, the S-Class remains a technologically advanced and comfortable vehicle, but the reviewer questions whether the new user interface is a true step forward.