In all technical fields, the new S-class sets standards that guarantee extra comfort, environmental responsibility and driving pleasure. More than 30 technical innovations are introduced for greater safety and comfort; and fuel consumption, thanks to a new range of all-alloy engines, is reduced by as much as 17 percent.

Jtirgen Hubbert, the Daimler-Benz Board member responsible for passenger cars, said "As was the case with our previous models, this product will inspire emulation at all levels of automotive development.

"The technology and design of the new S-class reflects our experience and competence which has allowed us to redefine the top-of-the-range in automotive design. The new S-class is a technological flagship and it will set new trends".

Intelligent systems a motoring first

With the new S-class, more than 30 technical innovations will enter production. Among them will be exclusive intelligent systems that only Daimler-Benz can offer.

Some of the optional equipment highlights (as yet unconfirmed for Australia) include:

• Distronic intelligent cruise control which maintains a safe, constant distance from the car in front, relieving driver stress.
• Keyless-Go access authorisation system which renders conventional door and ignition keys redundant.

• Standard window-bags and side air-bags front and rear

Elegant, sports styling

The new S-class design emphasises its high-tech image and the essential qualities of luxury motoring - elegance, dynamism, quality and comfort. Its key styling cues include a coupe-like silhouette and a distinctive nose with its eye-catching headlamps and characteristic Mercedes grille.

Significantly, the new Mercedes flagship is 75 mm shorter than its predecessor - but offers 17 mm more interior space. In longwheelbase models (S320, S430 and S500) the interior compartment is as much as 37 mm longer.

Fuel savings

The new S-class range will feature two bodywork versions (standard wheelbase 2965 mm and longwheelbase 3085 mm) and, at production start-up, three engines of six and eight cylinders offering power from 165kW (5320) to 225kW (5500 V8). A V12 (and V8 high-torque diesel with common rail injection) will appear later.

Thanks to three-valve technology and an advanced, lightweight design the new S-class engines use between 13 and 17 percent less fuel. An automatic cylinder cut-off system in the S500 reduces fuel consumption of the V8 by a further seven percent. The exhaust emissions not only conform to future European standards but also the strict Californian requirements for ultra-low emissions vehicles (ULEV's).

Other decisive factors in fuel-savings are the new S-class' weight-saving of around 300 kg over the previous model. But the weight loss has not been at the expense of safety and comfort. Conversely, the use of hightensile steel panels and larger crumple zones make the new Mercedes limousine even safer than its predecessor.

Air springs equal comfort unequalled

The new S-class features as standard a pneumatic suspension system which delivers unequalled comfort. This combines with an Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which automatically adapts shock absorbers to road surface conditions.