Below is photo of the new S Class taken at the factory in Sindelfingen. Interestingly in the background is the old S class for comparison. Most noticeable differences (apart from the flared fenders) are a lowered side body line, Maybachesque trunk treatment, and taillight placement. As one can see the new S is handsome in Dark Blue and the old S already looks dated by comparison. (The hood over is also a new S) Wheels are not the same as we can expect on the S once it is delivered in the US. The new S Class is in full production mode right now and there should be at least two available for each European dealer when it is released in September. We won't see any of the new S Class here in the US until 2006 as a 2007 model. With all the quality control concerns and new management it would not be surprising to see the S Class introduction into the US delayed later into 2006 than was previously expected. If the manufacturing capacity can be filled with European orders there will be little incentive to rush the new model to the US. In the good old days of #1 JD Power ratings Mercedes used to make sure all the bugs were ironed out by letting the European drivers have singular access to a new model for at least a year. Afterall the US dealers will have their hands full promoting the US manufactured new R Class for the time being.
Just curious, does anyone know what "benzinger" on the factory sign means? There appears to be more chrome too, especially outlining the window treatment. The darker colors help to mute the flared fenders and also compliment the added chrome. IMHO, like the Maybach, the new S appears more conservative and regal in the darker colors as pictured here.
Are you guys REALLY serious? Or is this that thing like when you were a kid? You know, when you wished for something SOOOO bad, and then when you got it, you were let down, however you still acted like it was GREAT? Because that STILL looks like a big Fiord Focus to me, just in blue this time. And that W220 600 suddenly looks awesome as compared to that crap.
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The Mighty AckVig
1997 S320 SWB
Latest word is that there will be a Dealer introduction in New York in mid October. A few new S Class cars may trickle in before the end of the year, but since MBUSA wants to label the new S as a 2007 we likely won't see public availability until early in 2006 here in the US.
Per a review posted above, the writer is quoted as saying that the S500 will reach our shores in Feb of 2006 with the S450 to arrive in April, and the 4-matic versions in November of 2006.
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