MERCEDES-Benz believes it has set new standards in the luxury car market with the new S-class which was unveiled at the Motor Show. The car is packed with innovative technology, some of which has never been seen on a car before.

With the latest generation of 'clean engines' the new S-class, Mercedes claims, gives major savings in fuel consumption and substantial reductions in emissions. The S-class also meets the toughest clean car regulations in the world, the Californian ultra-low emission vehicle requirements. Three long wheelbase versions of the new model are at the show - an S320, 224bhp V6, an S430, 275bhp V8 engine and an S500, 306bhp V8. When the S-class goes on it they will be available in standard and long wheelbase versions. An S280, 204bhp V6 and S600, long wheelbase version with a V12 engine will be introduced later.

The new S-class is 300kg lighter than its predecessor and together with the three valves per cylinder configuration and dual ignition means fuel consumption is reduced by 13-17%. An optional automatic cylinder cut-off system in the new S500 can reduce fuel consumption of the V8 engine by a further 7%, Mercedes says.