Daimler Buses is continuously developing its touring coach portfolio and equipping Mercedes‑Benz touring coaches with numerous technical innovations. The product update will be introduced gradually from 2027 and includes new drive technologies, digital functions, modern assistance systems and an enhanced driver cockpit. The objective is to support bus companies in operating economically and at the same time to further increase comfort, safety and vehicle availability.
News 2026
Mercedes‑Benz Tourismo: more profitability, digitalisation and safety for modern coach fleets.
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19 October 2026
The Mercedes‑Benz Tourismo in particular benefits from the innovations. According to Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses, the requirements for modern touring coaches are constantly increasing. Operators expect a high level of profitability, drivers modern assistance systems and passengers a comfortable travel experience. The comprehensive further development of the coach portfolio is based on precisely these requirements.
More efficient drive technology for greater profitability.
A central component of the product update is the new engine generation. The further developed OM 470 and OM 471 engines work together with new transmissions and additional vehicle and software optimizations. This can reduce fuel consumption depending on the vehicle configuration. With the OM 470, savings of up to four percent are possible, with the OM 471 up to six percent. Further developments on the engine and exhaust gas aftertreatment system also contribute to efficiency and robustness.
In future, the standard equipment will include the automated 12‑speed ZF TraXon 2 manual transmission. The ZF EcoLife 2 CoachLine automatic transmission is available as an option. Its intelligent gearshift strategy takes the route into account and automatically optimises the driving style. In addition, the further developed Predictive Powertrain Control system supports an anticipatory driving strategy by taking into account the topography and course of the road. This can both reduce fuel consumption and increase ride comfort.
The new ZF TraXon 2 Coach transmission optimises the driveline.
Digital networking and new services.
A new electronics architecture creates the fundamentals for additional digital functions and comprehensive vehicle networking. Selected control units can be updated via over‑the‑air update. This allows software updates to be carried out without additional workshop visits. At the same time, fleet operators retain control over when and on which vehicles updates are installed.
The new architecture also forms the basis for future digital services and supports modern fleet management processes. As a result, the vehicle can develop further in terms of software over its service life.
State‑of‑the‑art assistance systems for more safety.
The Mercedes‑Benz touring coaches are also being further upgraded in the area of safety. Active Sideguard Assist 3 supports the driver in critical turning and lane changing situations and can warn of possible collisions within its system limits. The range is supplemented by Active Cross Traffic Assist, which can assist with crossing traffic. Both systems help to take the strain off drivers in daily use and increase safety in road traffic.
Multimedia Cockpit Interactive as a digital driver cockpit.
A special highlight of the product update is the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive. The system connects the vehicle, driver and surroundings to form a modern digital workplace. A high‑resolution central display, a touchscreen and a newly developed multifunction steering wheel enable intuitive operation of important vehicle functions. In addition, selected commands can be executed by voice input. Frequently used functions can be configured individually and called up directly.
The integrated navigation system has been specially adapted to the requirements of touring coaches. Vehicle parameters such as length, elevation or axle loads can be taken into account, while up‑to‑date map data and live traffic information support reliable route guidance. Navigation destinations can be transmitted directly to the vehicle via the OMNIplus ON Portal. Digital services such as map updates and traffic warnings are also available.
Improved all‑around visibility and high travel comfort.
A new generation of the 360‑degree camera system provides additional support when manoeuvring. A larger camera angle, a higher resolution and the direct integration of the camera images into the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive improve the view of the vehicle surroundings. Dynamic overlays and other assistance functions make handling the vehicle easier in daily operation.
In addition to profitability, digitalisation and safety, drivers and passengers also benefit from the further developments. Optimised vehicle characteristics, modern comfort functions and digital assistance systems contribute to a pleasant travel experience and support bus companies in using their vehicles efficiently and comfortably.
With the joint further development of the drive, electronics architecture, assistance systems and driver cockpit, Daimler Buses is creating a modern technical basis for its touring coaches. The result is vehicles that combine profitability, safety, digital services and comfort and meet the requirements of modern touring coach operations.