2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse AMG-Line (W223) Dealer Edition/With 2017 (V222/W222) AMG-Line Comparison...by Norev

So, are you a fan of the new 2021 "W223" Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse? It seems to be the first-generation S-Klasse that people either love or hate. A majority of comments that I keep hearing are "It looks like a big E-Klasse" or "Is it shorter, plus it looks strange at the rear" and "I don't like the rear lights". All of that said to me, from my initial posting on Facebook this past Friday.
However, the model is actually replicating the long wheelbase S-Klasse version (In miniature form). As a 1/1, I too don't find it as "distinctive" as the outgoing model exterior wise. Also, the interior is very "different" I need to see one up close in in person, to make a final decision as to if I like it or not. The one very obvious thing is, that it's conservative and not pushing revolution in styling...and the front grille is a HUGE departure from the old "fake radiator designs" that used to sit so prominent on past generation S-Klasses. The benefit there is, if one wants to do a big star proper AMG grille version, the standing hood stern could be omitted. This rear light design theme works better on the CLS/CLA than this car or the E-Klasse facelift, or perhaps I just feel like top the area of the trunk above the rear lights should jut or extend outwards to not lean in so much (like an integrated cantilevered spoiler). Meanwhile the body looks more shrink wrapped and "sportier" like what Audi has done with their A8 and Lexus' LS. Overall, I think that it looks best in white compared to the 1/1 images and videos that I have been shown. White makes the car look larger or more imposing than shrinking basic onyx black does this go around. I don't mind the design, but at the same time it's not standing out as an ostentatious but understated often chauffeured driven limousine. I agree, it does look smaller(even though it's really not). Would I take one if offered, I suppose anyone would if it were free. It is a technological tour de' force, points for that. However, I'd just drive it or haul it directly down to Lexus for a swap for the new LS, as it will keep its value and still looks dramatically more distinctive and even fresher here in Europe.
Having a hard time trying to decide if you like it or not? Who would blame you? Curious as to if opinions have shifted on this design?

Well, I've spent all of yesterday's afternoon editing these images and have fallen asleep on the couch more than a few times throughout the night/morning to get this review done (as I was being asked via a few friends on Facebook). For some reason, I seem to be the only person as of last Friday who actually has this model. I was totally expecting it next year in Feb or March 2021, according to a huge Benz collector that I trust on Facebook. I was not expecting that my local dealership would call me early Friday morning with this model (Silver wasn't in yet). So, I really was thinking that I must have preordered something else and that they probably mixed the two orders? To my pleasant surprise, it was actually the model that I was looking forward to arriving 5 months later. So, a HUGE YES and THANK YOU to our local dealership!

As I also have the V222 facelift AMG-Line from 2017 and now have the new 2021 W223 AMG-Line trim, I had to put the two together, since the outgoing model is still so loved as a 1/1 and 1/18th model.

What I've found with these two models is, that Norev kept or exceeded the number of details on the W223 that they have also done with W222 and didn't stop on quality. The only disappointing part on these two models are that Norev used chromed blobs for headlight lenses versus clear. In the past, the earlier Norev 2013 W222 had clear lights, then the facelift 2017 model debuted with cheap looking solid chromed blobs. It seems that Norev and I guess Mercedes-Benz are content with that process? I miss the jewel like clear headlights which were replicated on the pre-facelifted 2013 W222. Now, for light beams/lenses sits lumps of chrome plated plastic with no soul. I find that move detracting, odd and very cheap from the rest of the models, don't you? However, the shortcomings didn't stop there. Open the hood of the newer model and it's matching the 2017 with "okay" or acceptable engine detailing and dogleg hinges. That's just the bare minimum of detail IMO. So, the miniature aligns with the previous model, nothing more/nothing less.

With this W223 being the AMG-Line, AMG fans like myself benefit from a completely aggressive lower facia, rear bumper side sills attached to the svelte new body. Sitting on large aggressive multi-spoked two-toned wheels with a new larger radar focused front grill, Norev nailed those details. Altogether it's really an attractive package. It might not feel like an S-Klasse, but it still looks good overall. Now, I was disappointed that the model doesn't feature a rear wheel steering system like the 1/1..awww, bummer. The AMG-line looks more like "tha' business" than the basic standard trim line this go around for sure.
The interior is the jewel within this crown. Just as the last version of this model Norev have exceeded detail wise here. The most outstanding interior features would be the diamond cut patterned seating surfaces. Rounding out nicely executed details is the interior trim surfaces, as well as the IP-graphics/Infotainment details. Oh, and the well-executed air vents throughout the cabin are a nice finishing touch. To literally top it off, the model dons a full panoramic roof, so that eyes can easily peer into the miniature space from above. As this is a fully opening diecast model, one can also just open up the doors for closer inspection. The gaps are tight this time, so you will need one of those Chinese tools to insert for opening parts.

I just needed to mention again, that the W223 is a fully opening diecast model. With it being a Norev product for Mercedes-Benz, it's also a great value for what you get. If you like big German luxury cars, this one should be in your collection.

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