Meet the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic concept, a two-door coupe that previews what the German automaker’s future cars will look like. But before we dive deep, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the grille.
It’s easy to see that Mercedes is paying ‘grille homage’ to the 600 Pullman, W111 and W108 with its chrome frame. Its rear shape—a nod at the 300 SL.
Of course, like the new GLC and C-Class, which were teased at the Munich Motor Show, the Vision Iconic also has a light-up grille and can be animated to display different graphics. Likewise, the three-pointed star at the bonnet’s tip is also illuminated.
Mercedes claims the gloss-black paint “emphasizes the sculptural exterior design of the show car”, while also pioneering innovative solar modules applied to the bodywork as a “wafer-thin paste”, because electric. Mercedes claims that such technology could produce enough energy for up to 12,000km (7,456 miles) per year, if it were applied to a mid-size SUV.
It also gets a new steer-by-wire and level four autonomous tech, complete with a computer system designed to mimic the human brain; Mercedes says the system is also 10 times faster than current systems.
The Mercedes Vision Iconic’s cabin gets an Art Deco design, including a large four-spoke steering wheel, a pillar-to-pillar screen, a floating glass dashboard, blue velvet and polished brass door handles.
Gorden Wagener, Mercedes-Benz chief design officer, said, “Inspired by the golden era of automotive design of the 1930s, this show car embodies the pure essence of Mercedes-Benz. With its seemingly hood giving it a majestic presence, sculptural flowing lines, and a touch of Art Deco, it rises to become a true icon of automotive beauty. The interior, with its continuous bench seat and the elegant rear, evoking memories of the legendary 300 SL. Our Vision Iconic is more than just an automobile – it is a sculpture in motion, a homage to timeless elegance, and a statement for the future. The symbiosis of traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology, and an unmistakable design language makes it the ultimate expression of value, prestige, and grace: the most beautiful, most prestigious kind of thing.”
It may just be a concept car, but hopefully this is a sneak peek of what Mercedes could deliver in years to come.