New features at Mercedes-Benz; new nomenclatures and a Mercedes-Maybach S600

Mercedes-Benz has announced a series of new developments that will begin to take shape next year. The first is a reorganisation of the nomenclatures of the current models.

The second major novelty refers to the addition of a top-of-the-range model within the S-Class, which will revive the Maybach designation.

The restructuring of the commercial names of the models comes from a desire to renew and clarify the German manufacturer’s range, which has recently become excessively dispersed, creating confusion among potential customers of the brand with the star.

From 2015, the range will branch out from the compact models and saloons, meaning that models that until now have only been named with a letter will keep their name. Starting with the A-, B-, C-, E- and S-Class, different categories will be created. Thus, four-door saloons with a coupé-like appearance will be named “CL“, with a final letter added to refer to the segment. Currently only two models will, for the time being, keep their names: the CLA and CLS.

In convertibles we are already beginning to see differences, as the current SLK will be renamed SLC, while the top-of-the-range SL will keep its current name. Other models such as the E Cabrio will not see their nomenclature changed, as it is a version within a specific model.

SUVs/off-roaders are the models that undergo the most changes. Thus, the GLK will be renamed GLC (to match the C-Class), the already well-known ML will be called GLE (in line with the E-Class), while the large GL will from now on be the GLS. The G-Class does not change its name.

Engine types and technical versions are also changing in their designation. From now on, a single lowercase letter will indicate the type of engine fitted to a given model. Models powered by natural gas, previously called “Natural Gas Drive”, will carry a “c”. Diesel models, whether Bluetec or CDI, will show a “d”. Hybrid models, whether diesel or petrol, will replace their current designations with an “h”, while electric models will carry an “e”. Fuel-cell versions will be distinguished by an “f”, while 4MATIC all-wheel-drive versions will keep their current designation.

The other major novelty from the German manufacturer is the return of “Maybach”, this time as a version within the S-Class. Its commercial name will be Mercedes-Maybach S600, and it will become the flagship of the star brand. The “Maybach” name is not planned to extend to other models, since Mercedes has decided to set itself apart from its other vehicles.

Mechanically, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 will feature a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine producing 530 CV, although Mercedes may add some extra power to the model, lending it an additional touch of distinction. The rear of the cabin is where it will differ most from the traditional S-Class, with a richer interior full of detail, first-rate finishes and upholstery typical of ultra-luxury vehicles. In fact, Mercedes’s intention with this model is to compete with models such as the Bentley Continental GT Flying Spur or the Rolls-Royce Spur.

Without a doubt, this is a full-blown bet on relaunching the most luxurious side of the German brand, which suffered serious setbacks during the short life of the reborn Maybach.

Source | Mercedes-Benz