2021 Mercedes S-Class Prepares To Bloom As More Camo Falls

The all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) has to be one of the most anticipated debuts of 2020 and seeing prototypes with less camouflage on means the launch is approaching.

Our photographers spotted three 2021 S-Class prototypes in Stuttgart with a reduced amount of camouflage tape compared to the previous sighting. You can see that the upper half of the vehicle is now completely uncovered, giving us a better sense of how sleek and elegant the eleventh-generation S-Class will look.

There’s still a lot of camo elsewhere, but we can spot some interesting details such as the fact that Mercedes-Benz continues to test the S-Class with two different types of door handles. Two of the prototypes feature normal handles but the third one, which appears to be an AMG model, has pop-out door handles.

All three cars feature massive black grilles, but the AMG prototype sports a more aggressive front bumper and AMG-style alloys. Overall, it’s easy to see that the W223 will retain the classic S-Class proportions with short overhangs, a long bonnet and a sloping trunk lid.

We can’t see the interior in this latest set of photos but last week we had a pretty good look at its giant portrait-oriented infotainment display that forms the center console, as well as the digital instrument panel. The upgraded MBUX infotainment system is expected to offer over-the-air updates along with the latest connectivity capabilities.

Photo credit: CarPix for CarScoops

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is based on the new MRA II rear-wheel-drive platform, which enables better packaging and weight savings thanks to extensive use of carbon and aluminum. The architecture is also compatible with new features such as rear-wheel steering to make the S-Class more maneuverable. That’s important, since the flagship luxury sedan is expected to grow slightly in size.

There’s not much information on the powertrains, but you can be sure they will all feature some form of electrification, whether in 48-volt mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid form. We also know that the V12 will remain the top engine in the S-Class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is also expected to pack Level 3 autonomous driving capability, active suspension and an array of other tech and convenience features. The range will be simplified compared to the outgoing generation and will include a standard-wheelbase, long-wheelbase, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach models.

Reports from Germany claim the all-new S-Class will be available to order from September 2020, with deliveries to follow in November.