CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID Pricing
CUPRA Ireland has confirmed that the new CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID will go on sale in Ireland in March, priced from €39,895 including grants and VRT relief.
The CUPRA Formentor is the first car uniquely developed and designed for CUPRA. Production of the brand's new Formentor plug-in hybrid has just begun. There will be two versions, one with 204 PS and the other with 245 PS.
The company is now taking orders for the CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID in its 245 PS version, while the 204 PS version will be available in the coming weeks. Both versions use a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, electric motor and a 13 kWh capacity lithium-ion battery, with up to 54 km available in electric mode.
Pricing for the e-HYBRID in Ireland starts at €44,895, but drops to €39,895 with the application of the available SEAI grant of €5,000 to private customers. The more potent 245 PS version starts from €55,130 but drops to €50,130 for private customers with the SEAI grant applied.
The 245 PS CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID comes with additional standard equipment with exclusive 19” machined alloy wheels, aluminium pedals, CUPRA bucket seats, dynamic chassis control, exit warning and side assist.
The Formentor range starts from €37,135 for the 1.5-litre TSI 150 hp model.
The launch of the Formentor follows the CUPRA Leon e-HYBRID and the CUPRA Leon e-HYBRID Sportstourer, meaning the brand will have a total of four plug-in hybrid versions on the market.
The CUPRA el-Born, the brand's first all-electric model, will also join the range before the end of 2021.
SEAT and CUPRA Ireland Brand Director Niall Phillips said:
"The CUPRA Formentor will be key to the success of the CUPRA brand in Ireland and is likely to account for over 50% of sales in 2021. We know from the SIMI figures this year that the PHEV segment is growing significantly, up 105% compared to the same period in 2020. Hence, the Formentor e-HYBRID is likely to be of interest to anyone that covets performance twinned with an electrified vehicle's environmental benefits.”
SEAT Leon e-HYBRID On Sale In Ireland
The SEAT Leon e-HYBRID has just gone on sale in Ireland, priced from €30,740 including grants..
Based on the all-new Leon hatchback and estate that launched in 2020, it's the first ever plug-in hybrid to be offered by the brand.
The new Leon e-HYBRID has an EV mode capable of up to 64 km on battery power alone. It uses a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine twinned with an electric motor to produce a combined 204 PS, with a 0-100km/h sprint of just 7.5 seconds. CO2 emissions remain at or below 30g/km in all versions.
The car’s battery can charge in just 3 hours and 40 minutes from a 3.6 kWh wallbox.
The 2021 SEAT Leon e-HYBRID comes with a choice of two body styles, the traditional 5-door hatchback and the Sportstourer Estate. These are offered in four high-specification trim levels: Xcellence, Xcellence Plus, FR and FR Plus.
The Xcellence model includes 17" alloy wheels, keyless entry/start, 3-zone air conditioning, 8.25" touchscreen Infotainment, full digital cockpit and wireless phone charging.
The Xcellence Plus adds 18” machined alloy wheels, front and rear Park Distance Control, Park Assist Self Parking, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, a larger 10” infotainment system with navigation, voice control, heated seats and steering wheel, Traffic Sign Recognition, Side Assist and Exit Assist.
The FR model adds a sportier look to the vehicle with 18” machined alloy wheels and FR styling, as well as Driver Profile Selection. FR Plus adds the larger 10” touchscreen infotainment, electrically adjustable driver's seat, heated seats and steering wheel.
The Leon e-HYBRID starts from €35,740 on the road for the Xcellence 5-door hatch and €37,225 for the Xcellence Sportstourer, but this drops to €30,740 and €32,225 respectively for private customers who can benefit from the SEAI grant of €5,000. FR models start from €35,740 for the 5-door hatch and €37,225 for the Sportstourer and these drop to €30,740 and €32,225 respectively for private customers that can avail of the government grant.
| Model | Pre-Grant Price Recommend On the Road | Price with €5,000 Grant Recommend On the Road |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Xcellence | €35,740 | €30,740 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Xcellence Plus | €38,385 | €33,385 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID FR | €35,740 | €30,740 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID FR Plus | €37,405 | €32,405 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Sportstourer Xcellence | €37,225 | €32,225 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Sportstourer Xcellence Plus | €39,690 | €34,690 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Sportstourer FR | €37,225 | €32,225 |
| SEAT Leon e-HYBRID Sportstourer FR Plus | €38,705 | €33,705 |
DS 4 To Make Comeback To Ireland In 2022!
The Irish distributor of DS Automobiles has confirmed that the brand will relaunch in Ireland in 2021, with their line-up of cars to be bolstered by the arrival of the all-new DS 4 hatchback in early 2022.
Gowan Group, who already distribute Peugeot, Honda and Opel cars in Ireland, has been appointed as the new distributor for the French premium carmaker.
DS 4 hatchback debuts plug-in hybrid tech
The new DS 4 will compete in the market as a high-end, C-segment hatchback and will be available with a choice of powertrains, including the 'E-TENSE' plug-in hybrid (PHEV). This exciting new model has been designed to combine some aspects of a coupé-SUV with a traditional compact hatchback.
A new DS 4 CROSS will also go on sale with some cosmetic enhancements to give the perception of a more rugged crossover-style vehicle. This model will also have the exclusive option of Advanced Traction Control for improved grip, with sand, snow and mud modes, and Hill Assist Descent Control.
A DS 4 PERFORMANCE LINE will crown the line-up with a sportier appearance, distinctive black alloy wheels and exclusive interior finish.
In fact, the bulk of the range will sit on 19" alloys, but 20" can also be accommodated thanks to a “Tall & Narrow” offering designed to limit aerodynamic disturbance and lower CO2 emissions, while maintaining an attractive design and comfort.
Inside the 2021 DS 4
There is a new interior design that features the latest in touchscreen and digital technology for the DS brand. With the DS 4 aimed at the higher end of the market, we are promised a mix of leather, Alcantara®, forged carbon, wood and new upholstery techniques inside the new French mademoiselle.
Technology features will include a completely re-imagined 10-inch infotainment system controlled by voice and gesture, and an extended head-up display touted as an 'avant-garde visual experience' that is a first step towards augmented reality. With new immersive technology, vital driving information is projected directly onto the road. Using an optical illusion, data is displayed four metres ahead of the windscreen.
We're told that the new DS 4 will also have a competitive 430 litres of boot space, with hands-free opening and a powered tailgate available.
Developed for high-end refinement
According to DS, the DS 4's 'EMP2' platform - already shared with some other Peugeot and Opel cars - has 70% new or exclusive parts.
Plug-in hybrid technology is offered from launch, with the DS 4 E-TENSE promising 225 hp and a pure electric range of up to 50 km (WLTP).
'PureTech' turbo petrol engines will also be offered with 130, 180 and 225 hp, though we don't know yet if all these will come to Ireland. There will also be a BlueHDi diesel engine offered in the new DS 4. All these models will be exclusively available with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
To ensure premium levels of comfort and refinement, DS has used techniques like bond-welding, as well as completely redesigned suspension and steering components. The new DS 4 will also feature the brand's suspension damping technology that uses a camera to anticipate irregularities in the road surface and makes the suspension harder or softer depending on what’s required.
Anything else to know about it?
Seven colours will be available, including Pearl Crystal, Platinum Grey, Red Velvet, Pearl White, and Perla Nera Black, and two new ones, Copper Gold and Lacquered Grey.
DS was founded in 2009 as a spin-off of Citroen, with the DS 3 the first vehicle launched for the brand, followed by the DS 4 and DS 5. In 2015, it became a standalone brand and later moved into the SUV market with the launch of the DS 7 Crossback, the DS 3 Crossback, and all-electric DS 3 Crossback E-TENSE.
The new DS 4 will support the company’s continued growth in markets around the world.
A spokesperson for DS Ireland confirmed that a dealer for the brand will be appointed soon, allowing the start of sales of DS 7 and DS 3 Crossback in Ireland to begin once again. A new DS 9 premium saloon will follow later in 2021, before the first DS 4 cars begin to arrive in the first quarter of 2022.
Opel Crossland (2021) Arrives In Ireland
The updated Opel Crossland has arrived in Ireland, and goes on sale priced from €22,395 plus dealer delivery related charges.
Opel's revamped compact crossover has dropped the X from its name and has a brand new front end design that is a signature of a new generation of vehicles from the German automotive brand.
The new Crossland also promises extra comfort and technology equipment, and features an improved chassis.
Available in seven different body colours, the 2021 Opel Crossland comes with a choice of three trim levels - SC, SRI and a range-topping Elite trim. Engine options include a 1.2-litre petrol engine with 5-speed manual gearbox; a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine with 6-speed automatic; and a 1.5-litre turbo diesel with 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. Power ranges from 83 bhp to 130 bhp.
With prices starting from €22,395 plus dealer delivery related charges, standard equipment on the entry level SC includes hill start assist, cruise control with speed limiter, lane departure warning, enhanced traffic sign recognition, 6 airbags, leather steering wheel, manual air conditioning, rain sensing windscreen, automatic lights, 7” touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto, DAB radio, USB connectivity and 12-volt socket.
The sporty SRI trim, from €23,895 plus delivery, includes park assist front and rear, rear view camera, AGR driver’s seat, 8-way driver seat adjustment with driver seat cushion extension and lumbar support, ambient white LED cabin lighting, driver’s armrest, half-leather effect upholstery trim, a painted two-tone roof, tinted rear privacy windows, silver skid plates, 16” alloy wheels and LED front fog lamps.
The range topping Elite trim, from €25,395 plus delivery, includes leather upholstery, AGR driver’s seat and passenger seat, 8-way passenger seat adjustment with seat cushion extension and lumbar support, heated front seats, heated leather steering wheel, electronic dual zone climate control, an upgraded central console with lidded storage, sliding split folding rear seats with armrest, a 3.52 colour driver instrument display, a rear 12-volt socket and 16” alloy wheel upgrade.
James Brooks, Managing Director at Leeson Motors, Irish Importer of Opel, said:
“The new Crossland of course retains all the key ingredients the Crossland X predecessor model had, that made it such a success for Irish buyers. Comfortable, practical, spacious, keenly priced and powered by efficient engines, our new Crossland model now brings to market the stand-out, new Opel front style signature and a smart new rear finish. Many more comfort and safety features have been added, to offer a really attractive package for drivers looking for the perfect compact family crossover with SUV looks.”
He continued: “The arrival of the all-new Crossland heralds the start of a complete rejuvenation of the Opel model line-up in 2021. We look forward to 2021 with confidence, on the foot of a strong January performance, with the excellent new Crossland now in our stable, and in anticipation of all-new Mokka, an electrified Zafira-e Life, our first all-electric light commercial vehicle, the new Vivaro-e, just crowned International Van of the Year 2021, and many more new model unveilings to follow this year.”
The exciting new Opel Mokka will be next to arrive in Ireland, along with the all-new electric Mokka-e.
New Car Registrations Ireland January 2021
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry has released the official 211 new vehicle registration figures for January. They show that new car registrations for January in Ireland are down 17.8% when compared to January 2020. This totals 25,191 new cars registered here in the first month of the year, versus 30,650 cars for the same month in 2020.
Level 5 restrictions mean that showrooms have been closed with remote sales services being offered, as well as the delivery of new cars to their new owners. Dealers are still open for service and repairs.
There have been some winners with the all-new Hyundai Tucson posting strong sales in January. The new model arrived in Ireland in late 2020, with diesel and hybrid offerings.
The Tucson is followed by another favourite the Toyota Corolla in second place and the Toyota RAV4 in third place. The rest of the top 10 is made up of the Ford Focus, Toyota Yaris, Toyota C-HR, Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Kona and Volkswagen Tiguan.
The bestselling brand in Ireland in January 2021 was Toyota, followed by Hyundai, Volkswagen, Ford, Skoda, Nissan, Kia, Peugeot, Renault and SEAT.
Registrations of new electric vehicles in Ireland in January also saw an increase, up nearly 10% from 891 cars in January 2020 to 980 cars in January 2021.
Diesel sales in January are down but stood at a majority market share at 35.85%, almost even with petrol at 34.70%. Electric accounted for 3.89% of the new car market last month, with plug-in hybrids at 4.23% and hybrid at 19.12%.
Used car imports saw a 3.1% (6,824) increase in January when compared with January 2020 (6,622).
Light commercial vehicles (LCV) are down 10.9% (5,033) compared to January last year (5,647). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations also showing a decrease of 4.5% (340) in comparison to January 2020 (356).
Commenting on the new vehicle registrations figures Tom Cullen SIMI Deputy Director General said: “New car registrations are down 17% on January 2020, the fifth consecutive January that new car sales have fallen, although this year’s registrations must be seen in the context of the pandemic and associated restrictions. Strong pre-orders coming into the New Year and the ability of the Industry to provide both on-line shopping and a click and deliver service, has mitigated somewhat against the full impact of the pandemic in January. On a positive note, despite the fall in new cars sales both Electric Vehicles and PHEVS are ahead of last January, and with more models and supply coming on stream as the year progresses, it is anticipated that this growth will continue. It is vital for society and business that the current restrictions succeed in driving down the incidence of COVID and with the delivery of COVID vaccines, we hope that business can return to more normal levels once the health situation allows. In the meantime, to protect long term employment and local businesses, it is essential that the current Government business and employee supports remain in place."
What's New For The 2021 Mazda CX-5?
Mazda has released more information about the updated 2021 Mazda CX-5, which will go on sale in Ireland later in the spring.
The CX-5 is the brand's largest SUV currently on sale here and is the most popular model from Mazda in Ireland, followed by the new Mazda CX-30, which we reviewed for Changing Lanes last year.
The 2021 CX-5 will also available as one of Mazda's 100th Anniversary limited edition series in Ireland to celebrate 100 years of the Japanese brand.
Upgrades to the popular SUV for 2021 include the interior and technology interface, as well as engine and transmission updates, which Mazda say contribute to a more responsive driving experience and reductions in CO2 emissions.
The HMI system inside the car has been updated in line with what we have seen in new generation Mazda cars like the Mazda3 and CX-30. It combines a new, faster, clearer 10.25-inch centre display and more intuitive Commander control operation with an expanded range of Connected Services operable by the latest MyMazda App. Numerous convenience and peace-of-mind functions include Remote Door Locking, a Vehicle Finder, the remote pre-programming of multiple navigation destinations, a Vehicle Health Report, dealership contact and service booking request, Roadside Assistance, and a Security Alert.
There have also been powertrain improvements for a better and more environmentally-friendly driving experience. These include optimised accelerator pedal operation for better vehicle response and control, improved engine response to throttle inputs, enhanced responsiveness of the six-speed automatic transmission and reductions in CO2 emissions.
Engine options include the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine with 165 hp, and the 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D diesel with 150 or 184 hp. Each will be available with an automatic or manual transmission.
Inspired by Mazda's first passenger car - the R360 Coupe, the CX-5 100th Anniversary limited edition’s colour scheme features Snowflake White Pearlescent exterior paint contrasted with burgundy interior carpet and leather seats, and the application of Mazda's 100th anniversary logo in several key locations.
Launched in 2012, the original CX-5 was the first Mazda to feature both Kodo design and Skyactiv technology. It is a core model for the brand, accounting for about 35% of the company's annual sales.
To date, 490,870 units have been sold in Europe, and a total of some 3,190,000 in 130 countries around the world. Globally, the CX-5 remains Mazda's best-selling model.
Volkswagen ID.4 Price In Ireland
Just as the first Volkswagen ID.4 reviews for Ireland begin to roll in, we can confirm the Volkswagen ID.4 is on sale in Ireland priced from €41,248, including grants and VRT relief.
The ID.4 is the German brand's all new electric SUV and the follow-up to last year's ID.3 hatchback.
The customer deliveries will arrive here later in the spring and will be high specification ID.4 1st Edition and 1st Edition Max models. These models are powered by a 77 kWh battery with a system power output of 204 hp and an electric range up to 500 km (WLTP).
There is 310 Nm of torque, the top speed is 160 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h is reached in 8.5 seconds.
VW ID.4 Price in Ireland
The Volkswagen ID.4 1st is available from €41,248 with equipment highlights including heated front seats and steering wheel, "Discover Pro" navigation system, 20" “Drammen” alloy wheels, reversing camera, LED headlights/taillights and Lane Assist.
The Volkswagen ID.4 1st Max is available from €54,580 and adds massage feature to the front seats, 21" “Narvik” alloy wheels, Area View, LED matrix headlights, 3D LED tail light clusters, Travel Assist, augmented reality head-up display and panoramic sunroof.
From May, the Volkswagen ID.4 52 kWh will launch here with an expected lower entry price of €35,000 after grants. It has a range of around 340 km.
The ID.4 is classed as a compact SUV and uses Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) architecture. Volkswagen says the space available in the vehicle interior is at the level of conventional SUVs in the next category up. Depending on the rear seat backrest’s position, the luggage compartment will have a capacity from 543 to 1,575 litres.
Inside the ID.4
The new electric Volkswagen SUV's operating concept will be based on two displays. One diagonally measures up to 12 inches and features touch functionality – as well as “Hello ID.” natural voice control. The new ID.Light – a narrow light strip under the windscreen – also features.
The ID.4 can avail of DC quick-charging at 125 kW adding 325 km in as little as 30 minutes.
It is available in four colours at launch: Manganese Grey Metallic, Glacier White Metallic, Blue Dusk Metallic, and Honey Yellow Metallic.
“The ID.4 is an emotional all-rounder which will impress many customers with its efficient electric drive, generous amount of space, modern assist systems and powerful design,” says Ralf Brandstätter, Chief Executive Officer of Volkswagen brand.
“As the first global electric car, this model will roll out our modular electric drive matrix platform that has been developed specifically for electric mobility the world over. Volkswagen is thus once again demonstrating its leading role in innovation, technology and quality on the high-volume market.”
A source in Volkswagen Ireland has said that the brand expects to sell 1700 ID.4s here in a year. The ID.3 has already posted strong sales in the Irish market since its launch in the latter half of 2020.
Volkswagen Tiguan (2021) Pricing For Ireland
Volkswagen Ireland has confirmed that the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is available to order now.
The new facelifted version of the popular Tiguan mid size SUV will build on the success of this model in Ireland. Since the current generation launched in 2016, it has become the German brand's bestselling model in Ireland and was the third bestselling car in the country in 2020.
The new Volkswagen Tiguan range will go on sale priced from €31,510 RRP with a €1,000 delivery charge on each model.
What's new for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
At launch the 2021 Tiguan range will go on sale with petrol and diesel engines, with a new Tiguan plug-in hybrid to follow later in the year. The Tiguan eHybrid will feature a 1.4-litre TSI engine twinned with an electric motor that produces a combined 245 hp and makes the eHybrid capable of covering up to 50 km in electric mode. We don't have pricing for this model yet.
A high performance Volkswagen Tiguan R will also go on sale for the first time priced from €66,990, powered by a 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine with 320 hp. Four wheel drive and DSG gearbox are also standard on this model.
A comprehensive facelift means a more modern appearance for the Tiguan akin to larger Volkswagen SUVs like the Touareg. The bonnet is more concise in its appearance and the new radiator grille with LED headlights is wider, with the new Volkswagen badge positioned centrally at the front. There are redesigned bumpers, and at the rear the Tiguan lettering is now in a prominent central position below the Volkswagen badge.
Inside there is a new steering wheel featuring touch controls (standard on R-Line and R), and Volkswagen has also digitalised the climate control functions by means of touch sliders and touch buttons in some trim levels.
What are my engine options?
The petrol range kicks off from €31,510 RRP with the option of 130 hp and 150 hp versions of the brand's proven 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, and choice of manual or DSG automatic gearbox.
The diesel range is available from €33,345 RRP and uses the brand's 2.0-litre TDI engine with 122 hp (manual only), 150 hp (manual and DSG automatic) or 200 hp for the top of the range diesel model with four wheel drive and a DSG gearbox.
Pricing and equipment
The new Volkswagen Tiguan will be sold in four trim lines here: Tiguan, Life, Elegance and R-Line. Standard equipment includes 17” Montana alloy wheels, 8” Ready 2 Discover radio system, 2 USB-C ports in the front, air conditioning and LED daytime running lights. There is also Wireless App Connect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Tiguan Life is available from €34,285 RRP for the 1.5-litre, 130hp petrol engine with a manual gearbox or €39,330 RRP with a 7-speed DSG. The Tiguan Life 2.0-litre TDI diesel starts at €35,515 RRP with a 6-speed manual transmission or €40,425 RRP with a 7-speed DSG automatic. Extra features include 18” Frankfurt alloy wheels, 8” Discover Media Navigation System, adaptive cruise control, Park Distance Control, 3-zone climate control, natural voice control, black roof rails and tinted rear windows as well as Comfort seats in the front and additional storage compartments.
The Tiguan Elegance is aimed at those buyers wanting the best of technology and is available from €44,020 RRP for the 1.5-litre TSI with 150 hp and 7-speed DSG. There are three diesel versions, priced from €42,350. Equipment highlights include 19” Victoria Falls alloy wheels, ArtVelours upholstery, an ambient lighting pack with 30 colours, a multifunction steering wheel, heated front seats, chrome elements, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control ACC Stop & Go incl. speed limiter, Park Assist with Park Distance Control, keyless entry and lane change system ‘Side Assist’ and Rear Traffic Alert.
The Tiguan R-Line is the sportiest of all with standard 20” Suzuka alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers in ‘R-Line’ design and a rear spoiler in ‘R’ style. Inside there is an ‘R-Line’ interior including decorative ‘Carbon Grey’ inserts and a black headliner.There is one petrol R-Line, a 1.5-litre TSI putting out 150 hp, mated to a 7-speed DSG, for €44,920 RRP and three diesel options from €43,195 RRP.
Nissan Juke Enigma Goes On Sale
Nissan Ireland has confirmed the new Nissan Juke Engima for Ireland. This special edition of the popular compact crossover boasts an exclusive new look and a high specification of equipment.
The Juke Enigma will carry a high billing in the Juke range and goes on sale priced from €27,300.
Cosmetic updates include deep black, 19-inch Akari (Japanese for "light") alloy wheels to enhance the Juke's signature sporty stance, while bespoke, intricate graphic patterns adorn the coupé-style roof line and door mirrors. The Enigma signature graphic on the C-pillar can be complemented by two, two-tone paint combinations, including Gun Grey or Pearl White with a black roof.
The new Nissan Juke Enigma also introduces Amazon Alexa voice experience compatibility to the Juke range for the first time, which will be rolled out on all new models sold with the NIssanConnect infotainment system. This technology allows customers to control some of their vehicle functions remotely from their smartphone or an Alexa-enabled device. By asking Alexa, they can remotely find out if their Juke's lock/unlock status, how much fuel they have left, or send a location to the on-board navigation system.
Other features include rear view camera, automatic climate control, cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning and intervention, automatic headlights with high beam assist, and interior ambient lighting.
The latest Juke is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, with the Enigma spec available with manual or automatic gearbox.
Peter Dynan, Head of Product, Nissan Ireland, said:
“The Nissan Juke Enigma is a fantastic addition to the Juke range. It offers even more head-turning design and advanced technology in a truly compelling and value for money package. Enigma draws on unique styling and intelligent connectivity to enhance the driving experience.
The new generation of the Nissan Juke went on sale in Ireland in 2020. The Juke range is available from €22,845 in Ireland.
You can read Caroline's review of the new Nissan Juke here.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021) Arrives In Ireland
Mercedes-Benz Ireland has confirmed that the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has arrived in Ireland. It will go on sale priced from €121,865, and is available in standard and long wheelbase versions.
Like its predecessors, the flagship German saloon showcases technology that, in time, will likely appear in future Mercedes-Benz vehicles – previous examples debuted by the S-Class include ABS in 1978, airbag in 1981 and ESP in 1995.
The brand says the new S-Class comes with an even higher level of standard specification including AMG Design Line, rear Thermatronic Climate Control, Nappa leather upholstery and trim, heated rear seats, metallic paint and OLED touchscreen with augmented reality.
Space has been improved inside this German luxury liner with driver and rear passenger elbowroom increased by 38 mm and 23 mm, with 16 mm more rear headroom. The 550 litre boot is increased by 20 litres.
Mercedes-Benz says the ambience inside the new S-Class is quieter and more comfortable thanks to improved acoustics and additional air and hydraulic features that adjust suspension and dampen body movement to enhance ride comfort.
The driver experience is dominated by the second-generation Mercedes-Benz MBUX User Experience with 3D display and 50 percent better computing power. Its features include eye-tracking spatial perception using cameras and algorithms that anticipate occupant wishes and interpret body language, head and hand movements to manage functions. The ‘Hey Mercedes’ function is now available to every seat occupant, and recognises speech and voice commands in twenty-seven languages. A ‘learning feature’ helps it recognise buzzwords and vary its voice output beyond stereotypical answers.
The door handles retract flush with the body when not in use or travelling and extend automatically when the driver approaches or touches their outer surface.
Other enhancements include measures to protect the vehicle against vandalism, improved driver assistance packages, an active body control feature, which raises the vehicle up to 8 centimetres when a side impact threatens, new headlamp technology, which projects warning symbols onto the road ahead, a multi-speaker 4D sound system with enhanced personalisation functions, and a new ‘over-the-air’ system that automatically updates software for more than 50 components.
Engines for the new 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class include two petrol and three diesels from launch, with a plug-in hybrid to follow. All have V8, 6-cylinder in-line engines and 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Petrol models include an S450 and S500, which both use a 3.0-litre engine and have 4-MATIC all-wheel drive.
Diesels are a S350d, S350d 4MATIC and S400d 4MATIC.
