Mercedes-Benz Malaysia reached another milestone with the introduction of the locally assembled A 35 AMG and the GLA 35 AMG.
Previously, only the A 35 AMG was available in Malaysia in CBU form. The GLA 35 AMG expands the model line up and both cars are now assembled at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Pekan, Pahang.
Visually the new A 35 AMG is nearly identical to the CBU model it replaces. It now runs on 19-inch AMG wheels which are nestled in wider wheel arches to accommodate the AMG wheels.
Inside, the new A 35 AMG offers an enhanced equipment range that includes a 360-degree camera, heads-up display and AMG steering buttons. There’s also a Keyless-Go comfort package, wireless charging and the MBUX interior assistant.
Other than that, the interior also comes with sports seats with electronic adjustment up front. The interior is available in optional ARTICO man-made leather or suede like DINAMICA microfibre black with AMG aluminium trimming in either black or silver.
The interior of the GLA 35 AMG (shown below) is nearly identical. It features the same overall layout with the same MBUX system and offers the same leather options as the A 35 AMG but comes with carbon-fibre like trimming instead. Just like its sedan sibling, the GLA 35 AMG too offers the AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in nappa leather.
The GLA also comes with a 360-degree camera, active park assist, blind spot assist, active lane keep assist, active brake assist and Keyless Go, among others.
But the similarities end there. The GLA 35 AMG distinguishes itself by offering the light and sight package as standard that comes with 64 ambient lighting option, an auto-dimming interior mirror and driver’s exterior mirror function.
The GLA also offers the easy-pack powered tailgate and the Urban Guard vehicle protection with anti-theft alarm and interior monitoring system.
Both the A 35 and GLA 35 AMG come with the Burmester surround sound system.
The interiors of both cars may be slightly different, but both cars are powered by the same M260 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine that puts out 306hp and 400Nm of torque.
Both cars may share the same engine, but not the same gearbox. The A 35 AMG gets an AMG SpeedShift DCT 7G box while the GLA gets the AMG SpeedShift DCT 8G box.
This engine though is not new either and is carried over from the previous model and is a highly tuned version of the engine found in the A250.
Unlike the engines found in AMG models like the A 45S and above, the engine in the A 35 and GLA 35 is not put together by a single person, which is an integral part of the AMG ‘one man, one engine’ ethos.
But that is not to say that the cars are not proper AMGs.
As part of the launch, we were given three laps of the north track of the Sepang Circuit in both cars.
Both cars felt eager and responded to the tiniest of throttle input, which gave it a very edgy character.
We started and ended the drive in the Sport Plus driving mode. There are four driving modes on offer with Sport Plus being the most extreme with all systems on full alert.
Despite both cars coming with AMG Ride Control suspension, the GLA had noticeable body roll around the tighter corners of Sepang.
This is quite understandable because the GLA has a taller ride height and as such will tend to roll around a lot more than the A-Class.
The A 35 AMG thought felt like the wilder sibling. The one that did not get the full parental supervision and as such grew up to be the brawler.
The A 35 feels like it truly benefited from the AMG Suspension. It felt more planted in fast corners, and body roll was non-existent in tighter ones.
It did feel like it had more understeer than the GLA, but at no point did it feel unmanaged. After all, both cars comes with the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC system that sends power to the axle that needs it the most.
In terms of outright performance, the A 35 accelerates harder than the GLA, it does the century sprint in just 4.8 seconds while the latter does it in 5.2.
After the drive, it was clear that the GLA 35 AMG is more suited to comfort and convenience. It is a car for the family man who wants a dash of sports.
The A 35 AMG though is for the wilder ones. If you appreciate a car that rewards hard driving and corner carving, the A 35 AMG is the car for you.
Both offer well built cabins with impressive features, and there’s no louder testament that you have made it in life than a AMG badge.
The GLA 35 AMG is now available at RM345,048.74 with SST exemption while the A 35 AMG retails at RM325,090.23 before SST.
While a Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the ultimate symbol of success, the C-Class is a loud statement of intent.
Before the rise of the A-Class and CLA, it was the C-Class that was the entry level model to the wonderful world of Mercedes-Benz. It was the car to buy for young executives who had just received their first big pay day.
The C-Class took over from the iconic 190E and the new W206 is the fifth-generation model, and is arguably the best C-Class ever made.
As handsome as the new design may be, Mercedes has opted for a similar design lingo across the board. It is now difficult to tell the new E-Class and C-Class apart from a distance.
The rear is the one part where all new Mercedes-Benz models are painfully identical.
I personally can’t stand the fake exhaust tips moulded into the rear bumper, while the real exhaust are neatly tucked away behind the bumper.
But the C300 (below) makes up for that with the sportier look and feel of the two C-Class models currently on offer. The C300 comes with an AMG body kit and sportier 19-inch wheels.
And it is most loveable in Spectral Blue. It is unfortunate though that this colour is only for the CBU models, and will not be available in the upcoming CKD models.
The C200 (above) on the other hand seems mundane in comparison. The Obsidian Black doesn’t do much to accentuate the design lines of the car, while the 18-inch wheels look common in comparison to the ones on the C300.
Both cars also feature the iconic power dome bulges on either side of the bonnet, a feature that was once reserved for the fire-breathing AMG models only.
The C-Class now offers the most spacious interior ever seen in a C-Class, ever. The rear seats are especially comfortable for taller passengers while the front seats feel as spacious as the W124 E-Class.
However, tall driver and front passenger will find their knees rubbing against the sides of the centre console.
The quality of the buttons are typical of modern Mercedes-Benz’s, which means they are neither great nor lacking.
Most buttons are now of the haptic type, which means they are piano black in colour and touch operated. All of the buttons on the steering wheel for example are haptic.
Personally, haptic buttons work fine but they attract smudges and highlight dust particles like moths to a light bulb.
Perhaps Mercedes-Benz designers could take a card from Lexus designers who believe that the essential controls such as air-conditioning and volume still warrant physical buttons since the driver will be reaching out to them while driving.
The interior differences between the two cars are also vast, such as the fact that the C300 comes with a moon and a sunroof while the C200 doesn’t.
The steering wheel too is different, with the C200 (shown below) getting a leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel while the C300 (shown above) gets an AMG steering wheel wrapped in nappa leather.
It doesn’t just end there, even the trimming is different, with the C300 getting the sportier trim.
However, both models get the utterly dominating 11.9-inch portrait oriented touchscreen display. This may seem a little distracting at first, but key controls such as air-conditioning settings are on permanent display, which makes them easily accessible.
Accessing the menus takes some getting used to, but having such a large screen at the centre can definitely be distracting when driving.
There are other nitty gritty details around the interior that distinguish one from the other, but the biggest difference is of course the powertrain.
Both C-Class models share the same 9-speed gearbox, which Mercedes calls 9G-Tronic. It was specifically developed to adapt to something called the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) which is basically an electric motor installed in both models as well.
The new gearbox is said to be 30 per cent more efficient thanks to an optimised mechanical pump. And it also comes with a new multi-core electronic processor that can manage an increased amount of computing power. This has thus reduced the amount of hefty electrical components by a staggering 30 per cent!
The engines of both cars though are totally different.
The C200 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that puts out a hearty 201hp and 300Nm of torque. This hike in power is achieve with the integration of the aforementioned ISG motor. This lets the C200 accelerate to 100km/h in just 7.3 seconds and a 246km/h top speed.
The C300 on the other hand gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that puts out an impressive 255hp and 400Nm of torque. This is good for a six second charge to 100km/h and tops out at 250km/h.
All in all, the new W206 C-Class is undoubtedly the best C-Class ever. The C200 is the thinking man’s choice while the C300 is for those who prefer a sporting flair to their car.
Either model offers an armada of features that includes a meter panel that can be individualised with three display styles, and you can change that according to your mood so you never get bored.
The CBU C-Class is available in eight different colours while prices stand at RM288,334 for the C200 and RM330,681 for the C300.
Global organisations, especially those in the premium and luxury segments, place great emphasis on brand image and corporate identity. Every aspect of their business must meet high standards and with companies like Mercedes-Benz, it includes the retail experience for customers.
This, of course, requires huge investments and the Hap Seng Group, one of the authorised dealers of the German brand in Malaysia, has spent of a total of RM673 million to date. It has established 10 Autohaus outlets in Peninsular and East Malaysia, as well as a standalone Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-owned Centre and a standalone Body & Paint centre, both in Selangor.
The most recent investment is RM99 million for the new Autohaus in Setia Alam, Selangor, which was officially opened today. The relocated facility has a new luxury brand presence and exclusive luxury lifestyle boutique with enhancements and upgrades that support the brand’s customer-centric efforts.
The Hap Seng Star Setia Alam Autohaus sits on almost 79,000 sq ft of land area and has 7 floors. The spacious showroom floor can display up to 16 cars and the building has amenities such a self-service café, kid’s playroom and even a luxurious ladies powder room.
The lifestyle retail experience includes Mercedes-Benz luxury accessories and collection boutique, catering to a wide range of customers with a variety of collectables and products.
“With this new Setia Alam outlet, we want our customers to experience luxury like no other through our new luxury retail presence, equipped with lavish features and special amenities. Hap Seng Star is continuously looking for ways to innovate our services and offerings while embracing the Mercedes-Benz spirit of luxury, and with our passion for excellence, we will continue to set the benchmark in delivering the best customer services and experience,” said Harald Behrend, Group Chief Operating Officer of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and Chief Executive of Hap Seng Group Automotive Division.
The Hap Seng Star Autohaus is a one-stop centre for the needs of new as well as existing customers. For the latter, there is a service area with expandable work bays and maximised service capacity of up to 1,500 vehicles a month. Scheduled service maintenance and major repairs are carried out by trained technicians equipped with complete and approved special tools from Mercedes-Benz.
Other service differentiation offerings range from Express Service 2.0, pick-up and delivery, drop-and-go service booking, wheel alignment and balancing, electrical diagnosis and repairs, paint coating, glass tinting and also assistance with insurance and warranty claims.
“The launch of Hap Seng Star Setia Alam Autohaus is a testament of our joint commitment to redefine a luxurious brand experience for our Malaysian customers, at every point of their journey. It is our goal to work with our dealer partners to continue to grow the brand’s luxury retail concept presence which aims to further enhance our offerings & customer experience in areas of sales and service to cater to the ever evolving needs and desires of our valued customers,” said Sagree Sardien, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia & Head of Region, South East Asia II.
As the auto industry in Malaysia keeps growing, the need for a bigger workforce grows likewise. However, there has to be a pool of human resources from which companies can draw from, and in order to build this pool. Some companies provide training programmes to incubate young Malaysians who aspire to start a career in the auto industry.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) is one of them and has a Training Academy which has been in operation since 1984. More than 900 apprentices have graduated from this academy and they are working with the brand’s authorised dealers in various positions across different specializations. On average, the programme has been receiving 500 applicants annually since 2017.
“As the technology of Mercedes-Benz vehicles continues to evolve, gearing for Battery Electric Vehicle readiness and the acceleration of dealer network expansion locally, we want to continue training and growing our skilled workforce to meet this demand,” said Edmin Naidoo, Vice-President of Customer Services, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Malaysia & SEA II.
One of the programmes is the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship, a 3-year course which covers a wide range of globally approved syllabuses and training guidelines by Mercedes-Benz Global Training with Mercedes-Benz Competence elements to ensure trainees continue development with the brand. The programme incorporates International Qualifications up to Level 3 and is recognised by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources.
With electric vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz EQA now being introduced, the academy will also include training for Electric Vehicle Specialists.
As part of the brand’s strategy and global direction to lead in electric, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new profile for the Electric Vehicle Specialists, known as Expert in High Voltage (EHV) which will make its debut in the programme this year. This new syllabus will be added on the existing modules as part of the brand’s efforts to train and equip talents to be future-ready for the demands of mobility of tomorrow.
By the end of the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme, participants will gain certification in NDTS Level 3, C&G VRQ Level 3, Qualified Maintenance Technician (QMT), Qualified System Technician (QST)/Qualified Service Advisor (QSA)/Expert in High Voltage (EHV), depending on the specialisation chosen. They will also be fully equipped wide range of skills including presentation, critical analysis, decision-making, systematic thinking as an automotive technician for systems and high-voltage technology.
The programme also guarantees employment upon completion with guaranteed minimum salary in the first year with incremental opportunity thereafter. The entire course will be held at the purpose-built Mercedes-Benz National Training Academy in Bandar Kinrara, Puchong, Selangor.
Since 1984, more than 900 technicians have graduated from the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy with various specialisations.
Applications are open from now till July 31, 2022 and those who are interested can find out more at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy Open Day happening this June 25, 2022 (from 9 am till 12 noon) at Wisma Mercedes-Benz in Puchong, Selangor. The minimum requirement is 3 credits in SPM or equivalent with a pass in English.
“Education is power and we want to invite and tap into Malaysia’s brightest young talents to join us through our Mercedes-Benz Global Training programme. This is a great platform for us to recruit, nurture and develop talent that will become an integral component of delivering a seamless luxurious retail experience to our customers and further grow our presence in the country. There is a national demand for highly skilled talent in the automotive industry and through this apprenticeship, we are able to offer Malaysians an exciting opportunity and career with us,” said Sagree Sardien, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, and Head of Region, Southeast Asia II.
Ipoh in the Kinta Valley of Perak was where the first cars in Malaya were imported to and records show that the first owner was Eu Tong Seng, a wealthy businessman who brought in a Mercedes Simplex in 1902. He must have been very interested in the new ‘horseless carriages’ as the Simplex was launched in that same year by Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft.
Four years later, in 1906, a company opened up its first branch in Ipoh and this company would become associated with Mercedes-Benz to this day. It was Cycle & Carriage (C&C) and although it was not representing Mercedes-Benz then, it would become one of the first distributors of the German brand in Asia when it was appointed in 1951.
The latest Mercedes-Benz S 580e at the C&C Autohaus in Ipoh. 120 years ago, in 1902, the first car in Ipoh (and Malaya) was also a Mercedes – the Simplex (below).
Ipoh is therefore a special place in C&C’s long history and although that first branch was along Brewster Road (today known as Jalan Sultan Idris Shah), the company’s branch dealing in Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles is now located at Jalan Kuala Kangsar. This is where the company has its fourth Autohaus incorporating the latest Mercedes-Benz Brand Presence. The newly upgraded Autohaus, which was recently officially opened, is part of the Mercedes-Benz network for the Northern region.
Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence
The Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence is a retail strategy which highlights the integration of digital elements into the physical world, with the aim of delivering customer-centric automotive retail experiences for modern-day shoppers. This seamless journey for the customer caters to the multi-channel shopper while addressing the increasing technological complexity of products that customers are interested in.
“As the leading dealership for Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia, Cycle & Carriage is committed to providing our customers exceptional journeys and best-in-class services whether it is during their purchase experience or ownership journey. Today, we are proud to showcase the upgraded Cycle & Carriage Ipoh Autohaus, a key location in our network coverage from north to south of Peninsula Malaysia,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.
“We want to give Mercedes-Benz customers the assurance that they can access our best services here in Ipoh. We believe that the new retail concept responds to the individual needs of today’s discerning customers, making our products even more accessible to anyone who wants to dive deeper into the world of Mercedes-Benz,” he added.
Immersive experience for customers
The modern design of the upgraded Cycle & Carriage Ipoh Autohaus is set against a backdrop of the picturesque limestone cliffs of the city. The facility covers a land area of over 56,000 square feet with ample space for visitors to park their cars. The showroom has been specially designed with ample open space and custom daylight-emitting spotlights to show off the true colours of each model on display. All vehicles are intentionally arranged in the shape of an arc to maximise the visibility of the range available.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in a journey featuring the latest in multimedia tools to gain a thorough understanding of Mercedes-Benz vehicles and their technologies. With the addition of new digital touchpoints, customers can discover the brand while gaining access to the service team for a complete experience of luxury that integrates both the digital and human touch.
For individual consultations, there are various seating locations arranged in open, semi-private or private areas for discussions. This includes the Star Lounge, which has a cafe to offer a more refined touch to many services available.
For those who have made a purchase and are taking delivery of their new Mercedes-Benz, there is a special room for the purpose. C&C makes sure that it is treated as a special occasion for the customer to remember and to start or extend the relationship with the company and the brand.
Fully equipped service centre
For aftersales services, the Autohaus has a service centre with trained personnel and is fully equipped with equipment for maintenance, repair, painting and even car detailing services. With 31 service and repair bays (11 of which are for body and paint jobs), the service centre is one of the largest of its type in the area. The health and comfort of the staff are not forgotten as there are high ceilings and large fans for a naturally airy space.
Designed with sustainability in mind
The Autohaus is designed with sustainability in mind and is the second C&C Autohaus (after the one in Johor Bahru) to install solar panels that can provide up to 72 kWp of electricity from sunshine. In addition to this free and environment-friendly source of electricity, there are also rainwater-harvesting systems to supply water for general use around the facility.
To know more about Mercedes-Benz products and services or to locate an authorised showroom, visit www.mercedes-benz.com.my.
Mercedes-EQ which started in 2016 as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz dedicated to fully electric vehicles (EVs) was introduced to Malaysians in mid-2019. But apart from previewing the first model the new brand, which was the EQC, not much happened and instead, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) focussed on the EQ-Power range which covered the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models.
But the planning was going on behind the scenes and we were always told that EQ would be coming, and that day has arrived with the launch of the EQA 250 today. Although the EQC was the first model in the EQ range to be launched (in 2019), MBM has chosen to start off at the entry level with the EQA, the third EQ model which was launched in Europe last year.
EQC was the first model of the Mercedes-EQ range and appeared in Malaysia in 2019 to introduce the new all-electric range.
Decisions are made years ahead in the car industry and at the time MBM was planning, they would not have expected the government to offer full exemption of import duties and even roadtax for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). So the pricing of the EQA 250 would probably have been expected to be higher although incentives would have been expected.
So it must have been a pleasant surprise last October to be told that the EQA 250 could be sold duty-free in 2022 and for the next few years (longer if assembled locally). This has enabled the retail price, without insurance, to be RM278,201.25, and that also includes 50% exemption in sales tax allowed for CBU models. For now, the EQA 250 is offered with the AMG Line package that adds a sporty touch to the SUV.
The EQA 250 is related to the GLA (below) but its platform and architecture have been optimised for a BEV.
The EQA is related to the GLA and in fact, shares the same MFA2 platform which has been adapted for a BEV layout. So it’s not fully optimized for BEVs and to give the EQA 250 the efficiency it needs to maximise performance, it has been given a large battery pack and much attention has been given to aerodynamics.
Lots of wind tunnel and simulation work brought the Cd value down to 0.28, and the bodywork has been made as smooth as possible. Among the most important aerodynamic measures are the completely closed cooling air control system in the upper section; the aerodynamically efficient front and rear aprons; a very smooth, almost completely enclosed underside; specially optimised Aero wheels and specifically adapted front and rear wheel spoilers.
The EQA shows that cars of the future will still look like the cars were drive today, rather than the bubbles or bullet-shaped vehicles that were imagined to be on the roads in the 21st century. As mentioned earlier, it is like a BEV derivative of the GLA (but is really more than that). Its front end has the EQ design elements with a black panel radiator grille and central star. With the AMG Line package, the EQA 250 gets the sporty genes of the Mercedes-AMG brand. It reinterprets the twin-blade design of the grille and features a diffuser-look AMG rear apron.
A design feature is the continuous fibreoptic light strip across the front and rear, providing a distinctive visual signature. Mercedes-Benz has chosen blue for as its ‘electric theme’ so the headlights have a blue colour within. At the back, the LED units merge seamlessly into the tapered LED light strip to emphasise width.
The doors reach over the sills, keeping the frames (and thus also the occupants’ trousers) free of dirt and improving impact protection in the event of a side collision. All-round protective cladding adds ruggedness and structure to the overall proportions, hinting at the SUV’s off-road character, as does the simulated underride guard at the front and rear.
The EQA 250 has a straightforward electric powertrain consisting of a single motor driving the front wheels. The electric motor, a fixed-ratio transmission with a differential, the cooling system and the electronics form a highly integrated, very compact powertrain (eATS).The motor, which has an output of 140 kW/190 ps and 370 Nm of torque, is powered by a ‘double-decker’ lithium-ion battery pack with a usable energy content of 66.5 kWh.
The claimed acceleration time is 8.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h with a top speed of 160 km/h. The fuel consumption in petrol and diesel engines, the distance you can travel is dependent on many factors – even how you drive – and it’s the same for BEVs. Push the vehicle hard and you get less range but unlike combustion engines, low speeds are not necessarily inefficient. So MBM provides a range of 402 – 496 kms on a fully charged battery pack which would be good enough for regular motoring.
When it comes to recharging, there are various ways the owner can get it done and each one takes a different length of time. The shortest time is with a DC 100 kW fast-charger which can ‘refuel’ from 10% to 80% within around 30 minutes. The on-board charger can handle charging from AC power outlets at the home or in public locations but will take at last 5 hours 45 minutes from 10% to 100%. That pretty much means leaving the vehicle parked overnight so if you switch to a BEV, it will have to be part of your routine. Of course, if you ‘top up’ periodically, then you may not have to wait so long. Incidentally, if you want to charge at home, you will need a wallbox which will be additional cost for installation.
‘Fuel pump’ of the future – refuelling will be with electricity, not petrol or diesel.
For the convenience of its customers, MBM is setting up 13 DC fast-chargers installed in strategic dealer locations around the country. With the Mercedes-Benz Autohaus network quite extensive, this means that EQA owners will be able to travel quite far and be assured of quick charging. Until the end of 2023, using the charging stations will be free of charge.
Additionally, EQ customers will enjoy an exclusive 1-year subscription with JomCharge, where they will enjoy unlimited charging at a 50% discount at all JomCharge charging stations for the first 1,000 customers. The JomCharge locations are at Petronas stations and the petroleum company has said that it plans to install the fast-chargers along the North-South Expressway and part of the East-Coast Expressway.
Like most other companies selling BEVs, MBM offers a warranty of 8 years or up to 160,000 kms for the battery pack so first (and even second) owners should have no concerns about replacement cost. In time, there will be an increasing number of used battery packs and the issue of how to recycle them will become important. MBM is aware of this future issue and will prepare for it but says it is something that the industry will have to work together on as well.
The EQA 250 may be forerunner of the future of motoring but the cabin remains recognisable as other cars of today, albeit with a lot of digital technologies in the displays, including the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system with extended functions. The Mercedes-EQ tile in the media display is used to call up menus relating to charging options, electrical consumption and energy flow. The individual, transparent sections of the surface are illuminated from behind with the aid of fibreoptics. The right-hand display within the instrument cluster is a wattmeter rather than a tachometer, with the upper section showing the percentage of power used and the lower section indicating the recuperation.
The left-side meter can be used to show whether the destination can be reached without an interim charging stop. The colours change according to the driving situation: During a boost process, for example, the display changes to white. Depending on mood, or to match the particular interior, the user has a choice of four different styles and 64 ambient colours. There is also a head-up display projected on the windscreen.
The battery pack is situated underneath the middle section of the cabin, so it does not reduce the volume of the boot area, unlike earlier electrified vehicles which had battery packs in the boot. Thus there is a usable width of 1.3 metres and depth of up to 1.4 metres, for a volume of 340 litres. The 40:20:40 division of the rear backrest allows variability in the layout to accommodate longer or more items. Incidentally, the EQA 250 comes with an EASY-PACK tailgate which is just a fancy term for electrically-operated tailgate (which would be expected of a car costing this much) but doesn’t have the handsfree feature.
Electric vehicles are no different from other road vehicles where safety for the occupants is concerned. Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automotive safety, has used its long experience to ensure that the occupants of the EQA 250 will be well protected if an accident occurs and has also given thought to other road-users in view of the quietness of its running. It has an acoustic ambient protection alert so pedestrians and cyclists will be aware of its presence. The acoustic presence indicator generates specific Mercedes-Benz sounds outside of the vehicle up to a speed of 20 km/h and it differentiates between driving forward and reversing.
Due to the battery pack, the EQA is heavier than a GLA and more energy needs to be absorbed in the event of a crash. The supporting structures at the front and rear were adapted to accommodate this requirement by the use of thicker materials. And as it carries a battery pack and other high-voltage equipment, more stringent safety measures have to be incorporated.
An aluminium housing as well as the body structure of the vehicle itself protect the battery pack from potentially touching the ground and against loose chippings. The housing is part of the vehicle structure and thus an integral part of the crash concept. The ground clearance of more than 200 mm is a further advantage and the lowest point of the vehicle is not the battery pack but the side skirts.
If the EQA 250 crashes, the high-voltage system can automatically switch off, reversibly or irreversibly depending on the accident severity. This is particularly important for rescuers who may have to touch the vehicle in order to help the occupants to get out. Mercedes-Benz works with rescue services to train them to safely approach an electric vehicle and the EQA is fitted with a special disconnection point which can be used by the rescuers to switch off the high-voltage system. If an impact is detected while the vehicle is hit when it is being charged, the charging process will also be stopped immediately.
Along with the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class (Z223), Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is also bringing in the GLS 600 4MATIC SUV, the only other model in the ultra-exclusive sub-brand above the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Like the Z223, the GLS 600 costs considerably more than the model from which it was adapted (from RM1.89 million before adding insurance) and as we wondered, why would someone pay so much more when it would be possible to personalize a Mercedes-Benz GLS with additional luxury fittings and probably spend less? Well, we’re not in that segment of customers who can afford such cars so it’s hard to understand but it may be that there are some who want exclusivity as well as the assurance of the product being made by the same manufacturer, and not an independent outside party.
Where the differences are
Unless the S-Class, the GLS 600 has a closer resemblance to the Mercedes-Benz version, even size-wise. It has Maybach-specific styling elements but, at a glance, it would be hard to see the difference although the extra chrome trim does offer a clue. Where the Mercedes-Benz GLS sports a large star between two horizontal louvres in the radiator grille, the Mercedes-Maybach grille has a fine, elegant line of vertical chrome. At the lower level are ‘oar-blades’ at each side, with a classy mesh grille over them.
Along the sides is another classy feature – aluminium retractable side steps. The GLS 600 isn’t the only one with it but it is nevertheless something that will impress since you don’t see it often. The 2.06-metre long custom-designed steps, with extra width towards the rear half, fold out from underneath when a door is opened (and the vehicle is also lower slightly). Closing the door will reverse the action and the steps fit flush against the underside so there is no loss of ground clearance. This feature is exclusive to the Mercedes-Benz Maybach version.
The 23-inch wheels were developed exclusively for this model and have the pinstripe theme of the brand. The tailpipe trim elements with a small cross rib emphasise the model’s identity as a Mercedes-Maybach. The same applies to the brand emblem, which is positioned at various points such as on the D-pillar.
Extra money gets you this 2-tone paint finish with a dividing line which is applied by hand, adding another level of exclusivity.
First-class cabin
It’s on the inside that much of the reason for the higher price is evident. Needless to say, the character of the interior is reflected in the high-grade materials and the high level of craftsmanship. Where the Mercedes-Benz GLS has 3 rows for up to 7 persons, the Mercedes-Maybach version has only two rows and the back one is for just two persons. The seats look like they came from the first-class cabin of an airliner with power everything and a generous reclining angle.
Between the seats is a wide console and at its rear end is a lid which opens into a refrigerated compartment. The refrigerator is an option but for the Malaysian market, it comes as a standard fitment. It has a large volume but that also means that it sticks into the boot area and takes away a bit of space.
From their elevated seating position, thanks to electrically operated roller sunblinds on the two rear side windows, the passengers can decide for themselves how much of their surroundings they want to see. Overhead is an electrically opening panoramic sliding/tilting sunroof with an opaque roller blind which will certainly be needed with our burning sunshine.
While a SUV is often regarded as a more leisure-oriented vehicles, the GLS 600 can also be used as a mobile office for those who cannot (or don’t want to) disconnect from their business. There are multiple options with WLAN/Bluetooth to enable the occupants to stay connected to the rest of the world and folding tables and a 115/230 V socket can be installed. The MBUX Rear Tablet with a 7-inch screen acts as a control centre for all the comfort features and can also be removed and used as an Android tablet. The MBUX infotainment system with Rear Seat Entertainment System uses two 11.6-inch touchscreens and each screen can display the content selected by the individual user.
Better air quality and enhanced wellness
In this age of greater concern for air quality, the AIR-BALANCE helps to improve the quality with two particularly clever features. One is active fragrancing of the interior with technology that ensures the fragrance actually evaporates after system deactivation and air exchange so no perfume droplets stick to clothing or the occupants.
The AIR-BALANCE Package also has air ionisation using a high-voltage ioniser in the air duct. The ioniser generates negative ions and owing to the magnetic attraction, they form heavier agglomerations and fall to the floor. In this way, certain viruses, bacteria and spores can be deactivated while the air will be fresher.
The suspension is based on that of the Mercedes-Benz GLS with AIRMATIC air suspension and Adaptive Damping System Plus (ADS+). The E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension based on the 48V on-board electrical system, an innovation in suspension technology, is standard. A special Maybach drive program has been developed to provide class-leading ride comfort.
Hybrid powertrain with cylinder-cut
For power, the M177 engine is used and this is a new, electrified variant of the V8 petrol engine with a displacement of 3982 cc and has a 48V on-board electrical system with integrated starter-alternator (ISG). The ISG is responsible for hybrid functions such as EQ Boost or energy recovery, allowing fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology.
The output of the bi-turbo engine is 558 ps/730 Nm, and can be boosted by 250 Nm/22 ps momentarily. For fuel-savings, the variable valve control system CAMTRONIC can shut down 4 cylinders when demands are low. The transition between on 4 and 8 cylinders is seamless an absorber reduces vibrations that come from running on less cylinders.
Mercedes-Benz has had lots of experience in all-wheel drive, not only when it developed its first SUV in 1997 but even before that with the G-Wagen. For the GLS 600, the power flows through a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission to a transfer case that can vary torque from 0 – 100% between the front and rear axles.
Sophisticated PRE-SAFE systems
The tallness of a SUV has always been a challenge for engineers as there is a higher risk of roll-over. The PRE-SAFE system has active systems that can lower this risk significantly, but accidents can still happen. This is where the additional airbags installed in the rear seats help to give better protection to the passengers while Impulse Side, which is part of the Driving Assistance package Plus, uses the close-range radar sensors to detect an impending side-on collision and can prompt the driver or front passenger to move further away from the danger zone.
An interesting feature is the use of hearing, an area that often gets forgotten. If a probable impact is detected, the PRE-SAFE Sound system transmits a noise signal through the sound system of the vehicle which can trigger a reflex. It causes the stapedius muscle in the inner ear to contract and thus muffles the noise level of a major collision. This small action could help reduce the disorientation caused to the passenger by the impact and enable him or her to get out quickly.
Back in the late 1990s, Rolls-Royce and Bentley were up for sale and BMW eventually acquired the former while the Volkswagen Group got the latter. As Daimler-Benz did not have anything beyond the Mercedes-Benz S-Class that could be on par with the limousine of those two ultra luxury British brands, it decided to revive a brand it had acquired in 1960 – Maybach. This was a historically significant brand which produced elegant and desirable cars between 1921 and 1940.
In 2002, the carmaker launched Maybach as a standalone brand with two very expensive models, designed with the same sort of superlative luxury that would rival the best in the world. There were great plans to have a strong presence at the summit of the car market but only 3,000 were ever sold in 9 years – when the target was 1,000 units each year. The old brand name made no impact either, and the pricetag was considered just too high. By 2013, the Maybach brand was once again retired.
The first modern Maybach 57 (above) sold between 2002 and 2013 and the previous generation of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class (below).
However, Mercedes-Benz did not stop trying to have an offering to rival Rolls-Royce and Bentley and it instead decided to develop an ultra luxurious version of the S-Class, and giving it exclusivity by being branded as Mercedes-Maybach. Since 2015, there have been two S-Class based models, with the GLS SUV joining last year. The approach worked better, with around 60,000 units delivered worldwide during the first 5 years.
The latest W223 S-Class launched in Malaysia at the end of last year.
With the S-Class having gone into the new W223 generation since then, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class models were updated likewise, differentiated by the model code of Z223. Although having about 70% of components shared with the W223, the Z223 is a longer car with a body that is almost 5 metres in length or 180 mm longer than the longest version of the W223 S-Class. This allows the wheelbase to be stretched to 3396 mm to provide even more room for the rear occupants.
While the size and unique grille would also differentiate from the W223, the word mark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille. The brand logo is also affixed to the C-pillars, and for those who want still more exclusivity, the car can be ordered with the optional 2-tone paint finish with a dividing line which is applied by hand.
The M176 V8 engine under the long bonnet produces 503 ps/700 Nm, with an additional 15 kW and 200 Nm from an electric motor. The hybrid system uses an integrated second-generation starter-alternator and 48V electrical system. 4MATIC, of course, signifies that all four wheels are powered, receiving their power through a 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC).
While the W223 S-Class has a balance of performance and comfort, the Z223 version from Mercedes-Maybach is more focussed on ride comfort. AIRMATIC air suspension with level control and continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment. The fully active E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension has ROAD SURFACE SCAN to monitor the road ahead with a stereo camera. When uneven surfaces are detected, the suspension will be adapted to compensate and keep the ride smooth.
Thanks to this predictive control, the vehicle body ‘floats’ across undulations with practically no vertical movement. With the curve inclination function CURVE, the car body leans into bends rather than tilting outwards. This imposes lower lateral forces on the occupants, further improving perceived comfort.
Even the driving mode is focussed on comfort as DYNAMIC SELECT has the additional MAYBACH MODE (which the W223 S-Class does not have) to provide even more comfortable and smoother movement. There is also a CHAUFFEUR mode with gentler acceleration characteristics and moving off in second gear.
Both axles are capable of steering, thus reducing the turning circle. Rear-axle steering reduces the turning circle by up to 2 metres and customers can choose 4.5 degree and 10 degree steering to have a turning circle of 12.4 or 11.4 metres, instead of 13.4 metres.
The interior of the car may have many similarities to the latest W223 S-Class but there are more luxury features and the quality of materials is clearly much higher. while the W223 S-Class which may be driven by the owner, the same can’t be said with the Z223 S-Class so much more attention is given to the rear section where there are not only two fully reclining seats but also an extensive range of infotainment functions.
They can watch movies or surf the internet with two 11.6-inch touchscreen displays on the backrests of the front seats. There is also a MBUX Rear Tablet as standard equipment which can be taken out and used like a normal tablet with Android apps. MBUX Interior Assist will monitor the movements (using cameras in the ceiling) of the rear occupants behind and after they close the doors with a gesture, they can use other gestures for a range of operations.
For example, to switch on the reading light, they just need to move their hands up and down below the lights. To make seat belt fastening easier on the outer rear seats, the belt extender emerges as soon as a corresponding hand movement is recognised as an intention to reach for the belt. Of course, the occupants will have to first learn the gestures although there are also many functions which the MBUX assistant can carry out with the ‘Hey Mercedes’ command.
Even more advanced safety features
The W223 S-Class has already introduced advanced safety features that include a rear airbag. This too is present in the Z223 S-Class as well as seat cushion airbags, beltbags, sidebags and windowbags. This means that in a severe accident, the rear passengers are surrounded by airbags that will help prevent or reduce injuries. Additionally, the PRE-SAFE positioning function also moves the rear seats to a more favourable position during the crash. The system can increase the pressure in the air chambers in the side bolsters of the multi-contour seats which holds the occupants in a better seating position and reduces whiplash.
Of course, the front occupants also have protective systems as advanced as those at the rear , with a preventive, semi-reversible side restraint system PRE-SAFE Impulse Side installed as standard. In addition, when a side impact with another vehicle threatens, the car’s body can be raised by the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension within a few tenths of a second. This directs the impact forces towards particularly resistant structures in the lower area of the bodywork. For day-to-day driving, there are new and extended assistance systems that can reduce the workload on the driver so he can make sure that the car is driven in a manner that is comfortable.
Priced from RM1,928,815.76 (without insurance and with 50% of sales tax exempted until June 30, 2022), the Z223 S-Class is obviously intended for very wealthy customers. While you could buy a brand new W223 S-Class for less and then have it personalised extensively – perhaps at less cost – it could be that there are customers who like the idea of such an ultra luxurious model being made by the manufacturer rather than ‘enhanced’ by some independent customisation company. And for Mercedes-Benz, there’s also a nice fat profit margin on such cars which makes it worth their while even though the volume may be around a thousand units a month worldwide.
The fifth generation of what was once the entry-level model of Mercedes-Benz (until the A-Class came along) has made its debut in Malaysia. It’s the new C-Class (W206) is initially being imported as a CBU (completely built-up) import with locally-assembled versions coming from the plant in Pahang later in the year.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia offers two variants of the best-selling Mercedes-Benz model of the last 10 years – the C 200 Avantgarde Line priced from RM288,334 and C 300 AMG Line priced from RM330, 681. The prices exclude insurance premiums and 50% of the sales tax applicable. While the locally-assembled versions will have lower prices, they will likely not enjoy full sales tax exemption if the government does not extend the provision past June 30, 2022.
‘Baby S-Class’
Presented as a ‘baby S-Class’, the new C-Class takes many styling elements – outside as well as inside – and technology from the brand’s flagship model which was launched in Malaysia last December. It retains the sporty profile with a short front overhang, long wheelbase and rear overhang and ‘cab-backward’ design. Though the top of the engine is flat, there are ‘power domes’ on the bonnet which complement the performance image and provide an impression of forward motion.
The brand’s hallmark radiator grille has the same layout for both variants but differs in details. With the C 200 having Avantgarde line trim, the highlights are in the form of elegant vertical trim strips in high-sheen aluminium and chrome. For the C 300 which has AMG Line trim, the Mercedes-Benz pattern grille has star designs in chrome.
The headlight shapes on the new model have a similarity with those on the S-Class but do not have the advanced DIGITAL LIGHT system. Nevertheless, they are still LED high-performance units with adaptive capability to maximise the lighting distance, rather than just automatically switching between high and low beams when other vehicles approach. The rear units also use LEDs for reduced energy consumption and longer life.
C 200 Avantgarde LineC 300 AMG Line
The wheels also differ in size, with the C 200 having an 18-inch size and 5 spokes while the C 300 is fitted with 19-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels. While the C 200 comes with run-flat tyres as standard, the C 300 does not and owners instead get a TIREFIT kit. This kit comes with a sealant to seal punctures of up to 4 mm and there is also an inflator powered from the 12V cigarette lighter socket. As with run-flat tyres, Mercedes-Benz advises drivers to travel at not more than 80 km/h when the tyre is repaired, and the sealant should be replaced with a new bottle after 4 years.
The rear-end design will immediately identify the new model as a Mercedes-Benz sedan with its familiar form. The tail lamps, for the first time, have a 2-piece design, with the light functions divided between the side and boot lid elements which curve around the corners. Attention to detail, like on the front units. can be seen in the silver-grey diamond-pattern trim.
Slightly longer body
Compared to the previous generation, the new C-Class has grown in overall length with an increase of 65 mm, while the wheelbase has gained 25 mm. However, the body width is almost the same as before, with just a 10 mm difference and the roofline is 9 mm closer to the road. Out of curiosity, we looked at the dimensions of the original ‘baby Benz’ – the W201 190 of 1982 – and it has an overall length of 4420 mm which is 331 mm shorter, and a wheelbase of 2665 mm, which was 200 mm less. It was also much narrower – 1678 mm versus 1820 mm for the latest model.
While Mercedes-Benz is among the carmakers at the forefront of electrification of products, it is also doing so with a ‘needs-based’ approach that will take into account the fact that different markets will require different levels of electrification in cars. Not all will be able to make the immediate jump to full electrification for some time to come. With the C-Class being sold so widely, its powertrains have to be suited to such conditions with some degree of electrification.
Mild hybrid powertrains
The new C-Class engines now have an integrated starter-generator (ISG) for intelligent assistance at low engine speeds as a mild hybrid of the second generation. The ISG uses a 48-volt on-board electrical system that ensures functions such as gliding, boosting or energy recovery, and makes significant fuel savings possible. The engines also start very rapidly and comfortably as a result, so that the start/stop function is almost as imperceptible to the driver as the transition from gliding with the engine switched off to strong acceleration under engine power.
With the second-generation starter-generator, the engine gets additional output of up to 15 kW and 200 Nm more torque. A completely new feature is the segment charger with flow connection, an advancement of the twin-scroll technology for even more instantaneous response of the forced induction system. The technology for this new turbocharger comes from the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 team, showing how motorsport can benefit production cars.
The output from the C 200 engine with a 1.5-litre displacement is 204 ps/300 Nm while the C 300, which has a 2-litre displacement, produces 258 ps/400 Nm. For short periods, the output of the C 300 can additionally be increased by up to 20 kW (27 ps) with overboost.
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission has been adapted for optimum performance with the ISG, and is installed in both variants. It uses a new generation of the fully integrated transmission control with multi-core processor and new design and connectivity technology. In addition to the increased computing power, the number of electric interfaces has been significantly reduced, and the weight of the transmission controls have been cut by 30% compared with the predecessor.
The key components of the new, dynamically configured suspension are a new 4-link axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear mounted to a subframe. For the Malaysian market, both variants come with AGILITY CONTROL suspension with a selective damping system.
More space for rear occupants
The interior designers have used the extra length of the new body to provide additional space for the occupants at the rear. The layout of the dashboard follows the common theme of the more rennet models with a standalone 11.9-inch touchscreen display panel at the centre and a slim 12.3-inch screen that shows the instruments and driving information. The dashboard is divided into an upper and a lower section, with new, flattened round vents reminiscent of aircraft engine nacelles.
The portrait orientation of the centre display is said to be advantageous for navigation and includes a fingerprint scanner to quickly and conveniently identify the owner (or designated user). This keeps personal data such as profiles or other information protected. The fingerprint scanner is located in a convenient location below the central display. As part of a one-time process, it records the distinctive biometric features of up to two random fingers per user. Therefore no one is able to observe a number combination, which could happen with PIN entry.
The instrument panel display can be individualized with three styles (Discreet, Sporty, and Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). In ‘Sporty’, for example, red is the predominant colour and the tachometer has a dynamic design. Selection is easy with controls on the steering wheel. The new display aesthetic was developed for the S-Class and is now adapted for other models like the new C-Class.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also included Augmented Video as standard equipment in the new C-Class. Using a camera which registers the surroundings in front of the vehicle, moving images are shown on the central display. In addition, virtual objects, information and markers are superimposed on the video image. These include directional arrows, lane-change recommendations and more. This can make navigation much easier, especially in urban areas.
The modern, highly reduced design of door panels frames both ends of the dashboard. The door centre panel with an integrated armrest evolves from a vertical surface into a horizontal orientation. Reflecting the design of the centre console, the front section takes the form of a metallic high-tech element. It can be used as a grab or closing handle, and houses the power window controls. Another highlight is the floating control cluster, into which the door opener and seat adjustment controls are integrated.
The design of seats (Comfort for the C 200 and Sports for the C 300) are worth mentioning as well. They have layers and enveloping surfaces to create a visual impression of lightness. The head restraints are also a completely new design and are attached to the backrest with a sealed piece of trim under which the adjustment mechanism is located.
More intelligent 2nd generation MBUX
With every new Mercedes-Benz model, the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) interface is highlighted and for the new C-Class, this is a second generation system. The hardware and software have been advanced, while the voice assistant ‘Hey Mercedes’ is more interactive and has learning capabilities. In some cases, it does not need the activation keywords and can explains vehicle functions as well. So for those who never bother to read the Owner’s Manual (and many people don’t), the information can be obtained just by asking the on-board ‘assistant’.
With the Spotify and Apple Music services, Mercedes-Benz has now fully integrated the major music streaming services into the MBUX infotainment system. MBUX enables seamless access to the personal user profile at the linked music provider. This gives owners convenient access to a huge library of songs and curated playlists.
Though in the lower rungs of the Mercedes-Benz range, the C-Class still gets safety systems that are fairly advanced in the Driving Assistance Package. Besides helping the driver avoid an accident or reduce its damaging effects, the systems can also reduce driver workload in daily driving. A less tired driver will be more alert, reducing the risk of an accident.
For the latest C-Class, the usual active systems are present and work in an integrated manner using data and imagery from a camera and radar. Some systems will provide alerts while others will automatically brake the car if the driver does not act correctly to prevent a collision.
As with other Mercedes-Benz models for many years now, the C-Class can also park by itself with the driver only controlling the engine power. This is done by Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC and only works with parallel parking.
The C-Class success story began in 1982 with the W201 and being the smallest model in the Mercedes-Benz range, it was referred to as the ‘Baby Benz’. Prior to 1993, it was designated as the 190 model with various engine sizes, including a powerful 2.5-litre 16-valve unit. From 1993 onwards, it became the C-Class in line with the brand’s new model designations. In the last decade, the C-Class has been the highest-volume Mercedes-Benz model sold, with over 10.5 million cars delivered worldwide.
Following the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) last December, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia can now provide the price of the model. Only one version is available – the S 580 e Plug-In Hybrid – and it is priced at RM698,744 (excluding insurance), As it is assembled locally at the company’s facility in Pekan, Pahang, it can have full exemption of sales tax until June 30, 2022, which would be big savings for customers.
The flagship of the Mercedes-Benz range has been on sale in Malaysia since the 1970s, with over 18,000 cars sold to date, almost all assembled locally. The model’s history goes back to the W180 of 1954 although it was only in 1972 that it came to be known as the ‘S-Class’. Globally, more than 4 million units have been sold since the early 1970s.
The W223 is the seventh generation and as with every generation before, the new S-Class brings with it advanced technologies. In fact, this model has often introduced many new technologies, especially in the area of safety, that it shows ‘the future of motoring’. For example, in 1980, the W126 generation was the first production car in the world to be equipped with an airbag system.
With Mercedes-Benz now putting its full commitment to electrification during this decade, the S-Class also leads the way and for the Malaysian-assembled model, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain is the only one offered. Hybrid powertrains are not new to Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia and have been available with some models (including the S-Class) over the past 8 years.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has its own plant in Pekan, Pahang, where the latest S-Class and other models are assembled. (File image)
For the latest S-Class, the model is designated S 580 e but its engine not 5.8 litres. It is actually an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine of 3 litres and works with an electric motor which generates 110 kW with 440 Nm. The engine’s output is 367 bhp/270 kW with 500 Nm of torque and the combined output can propel the S 580e from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 5.2 seconds and up to a top speed of 250 km/h.
If conditions permit, it is possible to run only on electricity for up to 100 kms. When the lithium-ion battery is empty, ‘refuelling’ will take up to 2.5 hours, depending on the charging method. One concern owners have is the cost of the battery pack if it needs to be replaced as it is pretty expensive. But for the first 8 years or a maximum of 100,000 kms, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will provide warranty coverage which should offer some peace of mind.
Showcase for new technologies
New for this S-Class is DIGITAL LIGHT, which offers significantly better illumination from the headlamps. Each light module has 3 extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, allowing highly precise light distribution.
The millions of pixels allow the lighting pattern to be precisely shaped so that maximum illumination levels can be provided without blinding oncoming drivers. Light/shadow graduations and the light distribution of all the other adaptive light functions are also realised with considerably more precision, optimising illumination in all ambient lighting conditions.
Aerodynamic efficiency has always been important for cars as lower wind resistance of the shape means more power can be used to move the car, and fuel consumption can be lower. Low wind resistance is even more vital for hybrid and electric vehicles so extensive wind tunnel research was done and the result is a body that has a Cd of 0.22, impressive considering its size.
Not visible are improvements in aeroacoustics; the new model’s quietness is said to be even better than the e previous generation which already excelled with a very high level of interior noise comfort. The high rigidity of the bodyshell provides the basis for this achievement, and is enhanced with fine-tuning.
Lounge-like interior
These days, car interiors are designed to be like lounges and not just seating spaces inside a cabin. Especially with a model like the S-Class, comfort and spaciousness are high on the list of expectations. With the new generation, the interior has fully evolved into a ‘third place’ for the occupants, between the home and workplace. So it has to be able to provide not just comfort but also be functional enough for those who want to get some work done while on the move.
The seats qualify as technological benchmarks for long-distance comfort. The complex technology inside each seat uses multiple motors for adjustments in the tiniest dimension. The flowing, 3-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness with its nappa leather upholstery. The adjustment range and angle of the front passenger seat in the chauffeur configuration and the reclining seat behind it have been improved as well.
MBUX – the Mercedes-Benz User Experience – is a big thing for the brand and has appeared in every new model since the current A-Class was launched in 2018. Since then, it has continued to evolve and gain more sophistication, with the second generation of this learn-capable system making its debut in the new S-Class.
The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation have become far more extensive, especially in the rear. Both the hardware and software have made great advancements with brilliant displays on up to 5 large screens (in part with OLED technology). The new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time – a real 3-dimensional effect without having to wear 3D glasses.
The voice assistant ‘Hey Mercedes’ is constantly learning, by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions (like accepting a call) can be performed even without using ‘Hey Mercedes’ which, incidentally, can also be activated from the rear.
With digital and graphic displays nowadays, it’s possible to have multiple displays and not end up like the cockpit of a 1970s fighter jet. The screens can be individualized with a choice of 4 display styles and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service), so the driver can choose whatever information is most important to him or her when driving. Furthermore, this new version of MBUX uses 27 fewer buttons and switches, underscoring the minimalist appearance of the interior.
Rear airbag – world first
As mentioned earlier, an earlier S-Class was the first production car in the world to be fitted with an airbag. This pioneering position in safety continues with the latest generation and is demonstrated by having the world’s first rear airbags. These are integrated into the backrests of the front seats and deploy in a severe front impact. They deploy gently and protect strapped-in outer rear seat passengers against contact with the front seats.
