Mercedes-Benz has confirmed pricing and UK specs for the latest version of its flagship S Class saloon.

The new model, which costs from £78,705, was revealed at the start of September and debuts a range of new technology developments from the brand.

Among the highlights is the introduction of Mercedes’ second-generation MBUX infotainment system, which uses an 11.9-inch central touchscreen. There is also a 12.3-inch digital driver display with a 3D effect.

The head-up display can project augmented reality content onto the windscreen, meaning sat-nav direction arrows are placed precisely in the correct lane.

Optional Digital Light headlights, which achieve a resolution of 1.3m pixels, can project warning symbols onto the road.

A camera system inside the car can activate certain features based on the behaviour of the occupants, such as lowering the rear side window blind if the driver looks over their shoulder.

Software updates for more than 50 components can be carried out over-the-air and the car is prepared for new features to be added after production.

From the second half of 2021, the S-Class will be able to offer Level 3 autonomy at speeds up to 37mph with a new Drive Pilot system. It will work in situations where traffic density is high or in tailbacks, on suitable motorway sections in Germany, initially.

The new S Class is available to order in S 350 d, S 400 d and S 500 guises. A plug-in hybrid S 580e with a 60-mile electric range will also join the line-up later.

The S 350 d uses an inline six-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 286PS and 600Nm of torque. It emits 173g/km of CO2 and delivers up to 42.8mpg (39.8 mpg for LWB). 

Priced from £94,135 OTR, the S 400 d 4MATIC - only available in long wheelbase produced 330PS and 700Nm. It emits 192g/km of CO2 and delivers 38.7 mpg.

The petrol-powered S 500 4MATIC – with prices starting from £89,105 – produces 435PS and 520Nm of torque. It can can sprint to 62mph in 4.9 seconds. The S 500 uses EQ Boost, a 48v mild-hybrid system. It can return up to 34.9 mpg (32.5 mpg for LWB) and emits 184g/km of CO2.

Compared to the outgoing car, the new S Class has a larger boot (550 litres), improved aerodynamics and more interior space for passengers. It is also around 60Kg lighter, despite promising increased rigidity and refinement.

Compared to the existing S Class’s retro look, the new car is bolder and more modern. Its interior does away with most physical switches, relying on the touchscreens and voice command systems instead.

Standard equipment on the S Class AMG Line short wheelbase - 350 d and 500 4MATIC only – includes 19-inch alloy wheels, Nappa Leather upholstery,  a12.8-inch OLED media display with augmented navigation and 12.3-inch driver display, keyless entry, soft close doors, heated seats front and rear, memory seats and wireless charging in the front. The Driving Assistance package, MBUX premium, MULTIBEAM Intelligent Light System and reversing camera are also standard.

AMG Line Premium (from £85,200) offers 20-inch alloy wheels, Burmester 3D Surround sound system, a panoramic sliding sunroof, 12.3-inch 3D driver display, remote parking package including 360-degree camera and active ambient lighting.

Long wheelbase models add electrically adjustable rear seats with memory, luxury head restraints and climatised rear outer seats.

AMG Line Premium Plus adds augmented reality head-up display, digital headlights, 21-inch wheels, heated centre armrest (front only) and heated front and rear door armrests, plus heated steering wheel and windscreen. AMG Line Premium Plus is only available on long wheelbase models and starts from £95,695.

For another £3,795, the range-topping Executive line can be added to either Premium or Premium Plus long wheelbase models, and includes MBUX rear tablet with seven-inch touchscreen, electric sun blinds in rear doors and rear window, double sun visors with pivoting section and the chauffeur package.