Benz's next S-Class spied

Spy photos captured in the depths of wintry Europe show Mercedes Benz is well along the developmental trail with its next generation W222 S-Class.

It is uncertain how new the next S-Class will be, with some sources saying it could be both longer and wider than the current W221 model. The photos show little evidence though that the base shape will be dramatically different to today's S-Class.

The development car in these Carparazzi pics is well disguised, wrapped up to pretty much conceal all important details such as the front and rear ends, and the side profile.

The roof and upper window lines are more exposed though, indicating that the turret looks pretty close, if not identical to the current car.

Less obvious is what's going on up front, although the suggestion is that the nose could be a little more bluff, with a more vertical orientation of the headlights and grille.

The rear window looks different too, although the cladding effectively disguises exactly what might have happened to the glass area.

Word is that the next S-Class will introduce the MoVe modular V6 and V8 engines from Mercedes. The turbocharged, direct-injection engines are expected to deliver stronger performance, better fuel economy and lower emissions than the current powerplants.

Also expected to form part of the next S-Class lineup is a plug-in hybrid version as previewed in the Vision S 500 concept. Claims for the plug-in hybrid include zero to 100km/h acceleration of less than six seconds, and an average fuel economy figure of 3.3L/100km.

It is also anticipated that the current 6.3-litre V8 will be discontinued and replaced by a twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8. The 5.5-litre and 6.0-litre V12 engines are reportedly in line for the chop too.

The next generation S-Class is expected to make its debut in 2012, in short and long wheelbase form, as a 2013 model.

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