The Vision Styling of Mercedes Appears Impressive on the Upcoming S-Class | Carscoops

      A new rendering imagines the potential appearance of the next generation of Mercedes’ flagship luxury sedan.

      8 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The rendering reinterprets the S-Class by incorporating elements from the Mercedes Vision Iconic concept.

      This flagship sedan combines luxury and boldness, featuring an eye-catching illuminated grille. However, a production version with this design aesthetic is still several years away.

      When an automaker unveils a concept that draws significant attention, the sound of styluses on tablets fills the air as rendering artists begin to envision the new design across other models. The Mercedes Vision Iconic has certainly inspired a creative outpouring.

      Digital artist Sugar Design has envisioned what a next-generation S-Class could resemble if it took design cues from the coupe concept. The outcome appears sleek and plausible, although those hoping for a quick production release may need to temper their expectations.

      Nonetheless, with many speculating that the Vision Iconic could transition into a future S-Class Coupe, this stylistic exercise has merit.

      Vision-Inspired Sedan

      Sugar Design’s interpretation of the S-Class incorporates the illuminated grille, aggressive headlights, and bumper intakes from the Vision Iconic concept into a sedan shape. The profile showcases smooth lines with defined front and rear fenders, accentuating the seven-spoke alloy wheels.

      The rear design leans towards a grand tourer aesthetic with flowing curves, an aerodynamically styled roofline, slim LED taillights, and a subtle diffuser. Together, it presents a contemporary luxury sedan that could resemble a Maybach if badge-swapped and given a two-tone finish.

      The interior remains speculative, but one can envision a refined version of the concept’s Art Deco-inspired cabin, merging premium materials with advanced technology.

      What’s Next for the S-Class?

      The current W223 generation of the S-Class debuted in 2020, with a mid-cycle refresh expected in 2026. This pushes the launch of an all-new model further toward the decade's end.

      Spy shots indicate that the revamped S-Class will not feature a drastic redesign. Instead, Mercedes designers will likely focus on updating the lighting elements and bumpers while keeping most of the exterior panels intact.

      Given how the GLC EV integrated its illuminated grille late in development, it is probable that the S-Class facelift will follow a similar pattern. Interior enhancements are anticipated as well, potentially introducing a yoke-style steering wheel and expanded autonomous driving features.

      What might this mean for the Vision Iconic’s design language? It is reasonable to predict that an evolved iteration of its styling will impact future S-Class models and other Mercedes flagship vehicles anticipated in the 2030s. The overwhelmingly positive feedback on the concept will likely bolster this direction.

      Mercedes has confirmed that the next S-Class will be available with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, indicating the discontinuation of the less popular EQS. Its competition may diminish, as the Audi A8 and Lexus LS are rumored to either exit or transform into entirely new formats, which might include something unconventional like a three-row luxury van.

      This positions the upcoming Neue Klasse facelift of the BMW 7-Series/i7 as the only European competitor, although several flagship sedans from China are also looking to capture a share of the market. Regardless, the striking design of the Vision Iconic and the anticipated technological advancements could enable Mercedes to retain its leadership in the luxury sedan segment.

      That leaves the Neue Klasse iteration of the BMW 7-Series and i7 as the principal European challenger to the S-Class, while several ambitious Chinese luxury sedans are also seeking to make a mark. Nevertheless, the Vision Iconic’s sophisticated design and the technological innovations likely forthcoming could assist Mercedes in maintaining its leading position within the luxury sedan arena.