Elegance and technology at the forefront of Merc’s new large sedan, especially with optional MBUX Superscreen
Mercedes-Benz is inching nearer to the global release of the sixth-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the high-tech new cabin of which has now been revealed with an optional MBUX Superscreen.
No that’s not a typo; the upcoming premium sedan’s new Superscreen is a smaller version of the EQS EQE’s Hyperscreen and contains a pair of displays integrated into the dashboard – including the central infotainment system and a dedicated passenger-side screen – in addition to the driver’s free-standing digital instrument cluster.
The entire multimedia system is run by a new operating system and a new electronics architecture that Mercedes-Benz says will be more software-driven than hardware-driven, allowing for more individual updating of its multiple functions in the future, faster processing and a more intuitive user experience.
An adjustable LED ambient lighting strip circumnavigates the Superscreen via the camouflaged air-vents as well as the upper reaches of the dash, before continuing around the upper door trims, and is matched below on the armrests and centre console.
The lighting strips serve to enhance the cabin’s sense of elegance and highlights its swooping, continuous curves and there are no sharp corners or blunt edges to be seen anywhere.
Splitting the two front seats is a drastically raised centre console featuring a split-opening armrest and a cavernous storage bin between it and the base of the dash, with the two areas split only by a thin row of shortcut buttons.
Like the smaller C-Class, it’s clear Mercedes is trying to elevate the new 214-series E-Class to be more of a shrunken S-Class limousine than a standalone large car.
To that end, some of its technology highlights – standard or optional – are arguably unnecessary but undeniably novel, like the audio visualiser that alters the ambient lighting as well as feel of the cabin (vibration).
Another of these features is the dash-mounted selfie and video camera – available with the Superscreen – that allows occupants to “participate in online video conferences… and take personal photos and videos” when stationary courtesy of the car’s 5G connectivity.
Other more practical touches include a new voice command system that no longer needs the phrase ‘Hey Mercedes’ in order to activate, the use of artificial intelligence to establish routines, a new motion sickness prevention program and digital air-vent control.
“Thanks to digital innovations in the interior, the E-Class is now more intelligent, achieving a new dimension of personalisation and interaction,” said Mercedes-Benz.
“The computing functions of previously separate domains take place in a single processor.”
But while all the previously mentioned infotainment and technological goodies sound wonderful, the third-gen MBUX system in the new E-Class is ultimately a precursor to Mercedes’ new MB.OS chip-to-cloud operating system due for release mid-decade.
Described as being “central to every future product”, MB.OS will be rolled out in conjunction with the next-generation Mercedes Modular Architecture models – starting with the next-generation CLA small sedan.
It has been designed to improve data privacy and leverage the unique integration of all vehicle functions – from infotainment and automated driving to comfort, driver aids and charging.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius said the German car-maker was dedicated to building the world’s most desirable cars, hence it decision to develop its next-gen operation system in-house.
“By combining this in-house expertise with a selection of world-class partners, we will create an outstanding customer experience, from driving assistance, navigation and entertainment, all the way to integrated charging,” he said.
“MB.OS will feature full upgradeability and constant improvements.”
In the meantime, the new E-Class sedan will go on sale in Europe by mid-2023 and in Australia by the end of this year, followed by a redesigned E-Class Estate (wagon) that’s likely to remain unavailable Down Under.
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Keyword: New Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabin revealed