Mercedes S-Class range to expand

The Mercedes-Benz S-class line-up is set to expand and will have five variants in the next two years. A prototype version of the next Mercedes S-class saloon has recently been spied testing ahead of its launch next year.

The standard saloon will be followed by a long-wheelbase variant, as well as two super-luxury Pullman versions, stretching to six metres or more in length, to fill the void left by the soon-to-be-axed Maybach range.

There will be a new S-class coupé to replace the CL and an S-class cabriolet, which was first hinted at by the Ocean Drive concept at the Detroit motor show in 2006. Both are likely to appear in 2014. Unlike the four-door concept, though, the production S-class cabrio will feature a two-door body, together with a large fabric hood.

Others newcomers to Mercedes’ large car segment include the new SL, on sale in some markets from April this year, and facelifted versions of the SLS AMG coupé and roadster in 2015. An electric-powered E-cell version of the SLS is also slated for a market launch next year.

Among the so-called full-size models promised is a heavily upgraded version the current E-class which is in line to receive a major facelift, with all body panels save for its doors and roof set for a restyle next year. Also planned is a new range of engines.

Alongside the E-class saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet due for inclusion within Mercedes’ mid-range by 2015 will be a facelifted version of the CLS due out in 2014 and a new CLS Shooting Brake that is planned to get an airing later this year.