The new MBUX infotainment system is one of the most important things to look forward to when the Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2021 debuts later this year, and based on what we’ve already seen, there are plenty of reasons to be excited. But the new S-Class is more than just information and entertainment. The new flagship details show us additional features like advanced air suspension, rear axle steering and much more, all designed to give the S-Class the modern makeover it really deserves.
One of the most significant additions to the S Class 2021 is E-Active Body Control. The same hydropneumatic air suspension of Mercedes SUVs as the GLE and GLS is moved to the S-Class for the first time, and it follows the same premise. A shock absorber on each wheel with two working chambers has an adjustable valve and a hydraulic pressure tank that lifts the vehicle up, down, and to the side. Yes, aside.
Part of the advanced E-Active Body Control system is the addition of the Pre-Safe Boost Side Collision Control. New to the S-Class but available elsewhere in the Mercedes range, Pre-Safe can raise the vehicle up to three inches before an impending collision to minimize damage on the affected side. Both the E-Active Body Control suspension and the Pre-Safe Impulse Side control will be optional on the S-Class. Another facet of the E-Active Driving Control is the ability to scan the road ahead, specifically in Comfort mode, and proactively adjust the suspension accordingly. Again, it is the same as what is currently available in GLE and GLS.
The S-Class now features rear axle steering for the first time. An electric motor connected to a axle on the rear axle drives a belt that adjusts the angle of the rear wheels according to the input of the steering. Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz offers two different versions of the rear axle steering: one with an angle of up to ten degrees and the other with up to 4.5 degrees of movement. With that, the turning circle of the new S-Class is up to 7.0 feet narrower.
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Last week, the company also gave us an early look at the new S-Class front airbags for the second row. These new wing-shaped airbags protect rear-seat passengers from frontal impacts and, unlike traditional airbags, keep air trapped inside. These new second row airbags are only available with the Executive Rear Seat Package.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2021 debuts later this year.
