Mercedes S-Class And EQS On Still Track, Former Could Arrive At European Dealerships In November

A number of automakers have delayed upcoming models due to the coronavirus, but Mercedes says the pandemic won’t affect the redesigned S-Class and all-new EQS.

In an interview with Automobilwoche, Mercedes production boss Jörg Burzer said the models are a “top priority” and “absolutely crucial for the future” of the automaker.

Given their importance, Mercedes is keen to launch them on schedule. While Burzer wouldn’t say when this would occur, the publication noted the S-Class is expected to go up for order in September with deliveries starting in November. Of course, that’s for the European market and a U.S. launch isn’t likely until 2021.

The EQS, on the other hand, is expected to arrive next year. However, specifics are still pretty murky.

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

Regardless of when models are launched, the 2021 S-Class will have an evolutionary exterior with slimmer lighting units. Bigger changes will occur in the cabin as there will be a tablet-like infotainment system which rises out of the center console like a ramp.

Engine options remain unconfirmed, but speculation suggests there could be a hybridized 3.0-liter inline-six that produces 362 hp (270 kW / 367 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. There could also be a hybridized twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 pumping out 483 hp (360 kW / 490 PS) and 516 lb-ft (699 Nm) of torque. We can also expect plug-in hybrid variants as well as a range-topping Maybach which could use a familiar 6.0-liter V12 with around 621 hp (463 kW / 630 PS) and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm).

The EQS is another beast entirely as it’s an electric vehicle that will battle the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S. It will ride on the company’s MEA platform and is slated to be offered with an assortment of powertrains. Details are hazy, but base model is expected to have more than 400 hp (298 kW / 405 PS) and a range in excess of 310 miles (499 km).