With the demise of the Maybach brand, Daimler has been left without a player in the top segment of luxury cars, where the Rolls-Royce Phantom is now virtually on its own. One could say the Bentley Mulsanne is up there too, but I for one (and RR too), see it more as competitor for the Ghost than the monumental Phantom.
However, it looks like the Phantom will soon have competition, since the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will spawn a Pullman model that will act as the flagship of the brand. In an interview with Autocar, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche has confirmed that the S-Class Pullman will be aimed at the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Zetsche said Mercedes-Benz has developed the new S-Class to support six different models with three different wheelbases. On top of the range will sit a new Pullman model that will replace the Maybach. The ultra-luxurious sedan will be based on an extra-long-wheelbase version of the S-Class and will be differentiated from regular S-Class models by individual styling touches. These will include a unique grille that will give it a more noble presence.
“We will continue in the market segment above €200,000 (£170,000). It is important that Mercedes-Benz is represented. We have tradition at this level,” Zetsche told the magazine. “We see a chance to extend our leadership at the top end of the luxury car market. We plan to extend the number of models, and a Pullman is included in those plans,” he added.
The CEO stated that the new S-Class will be offered with three wheelbases in selected markets: standard, long, and extra-long variants. The latter will be aimed especially at markets such as China they are likely to form the base for the Pullman models. In the past, the Pullman name designated stretched versions of the S-Class limousines.
By Dan Mihalascu
Note: The following images are official design sketches of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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