2013 Mercedes S-Class

With falling sales and stiff competition from the BMW 7-Series and the Audi A8, Mercedes is looking to revamp its S-Class line for 2013. Recent spy shots have revealed a sightly longer model with the hood and the wheelbase getting additional length. All new LED daytime running lights and indicators have also been spotted and appear at the top of the headlights as opposed to the side. Expect the new S-Class to get styling cues from the 2010 Mercedes F800 Style Concept which would mean sharper lines and possibly, a new front radiator grille.

As far as power is concerned, expect modified versions of the Mercedes’ current lineup; a twin turbo 46L V8 producing 429 HP, a twin turbo 5.5L V12 delivering 510 HP, and an AMG twin turbo 5.5L V8 getting between 536 HP and 550 HP. Mercedes’ Head of Research and Development, Dr. Thomas Weber, has previously revealed that the new S-Class will also feature a plug-in variant modeled after the 2010 Vision S500 Plug-In Hybrid Concept. This would mean that the new hybrid would be powered by a powerful direct injected V6 engine and a 60 HP electric hybrid module run on a next generation lithium ion battery pack. The Vision S500 was able to translate this setup into a 0 to 60 MPH sprint time of 5.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 MPH, all while achieving 74 mpg!

UPDATE 11/14/2011: British magazine, AutoCar, is offering new details on the next generation Mercedes S-Class set to be released late next year. According to them, the new S-Class will not only feature a new design language, but an impressive list of new technologies, including a computer-controlled suspension system, with redesigned multi-link front and rear axles, more efficient engines, and a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

The model line-up will include: a four-door sedan set to be released in 2012; two extended-wheelbase cars and a short-wheelbase coupe in 2011; and, for the first time, a soft-top convertible set to be released in 2014. The engines will be carried over from the current generation models with a new "nanoslide" cylinder liner technology.

UPDATE 03/06/2012: The next generation Mercedes S-Class has been caught testing one more time, now wearing less camouflage than ever.

Hit the jump for a spy video of the 2013 Mercedes S-Class!