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If what we're seeing here is the new Benz flagship—and it sure looks like it is—get ready for a radically different, tech-heavy approach to the interior.

The arrival of a new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a big deal: Each time a new generation is released, the big luxury flagship makes a very strong case for being the best car in the world (or at least the very best at doing what a big luxury flagship should do). Even if it’s not quite your style, the technologies, interfaces and styling cues that appear first on the S-Class are reliably rolled out across the rest of the automaker’s range in due time, so it’s worth paying attention. And it’s a sure bet that Mercedes-Benz’s competitors will be scrutinizing it closely.

The current S-Class, designated the W222 generation, debuted in 2013 for the 2014 model year. It benefitted from a relatively recent and comprehensive midcycle refresh, but its replacement—let's call it the W223—cannot be far away. Photos posted to Twitter by user @raymeechen appear to show that car in what looks to be a more or less a production-ready state; if these glimpses are accurate, they show an S-Class that appears fairly familiar on the outside, but with a totally new approach to the dashboard and center console layout inside the cabin. Though timing is unclear, we expect to see the new Mercedes S-Class later this year. Consider this a preview of the Benz flagship's new technological direction.

The face of the new Mercedes S-Class is a fairly familiar one. What's hiding under those tiny patches of camouflage? And what sort of shenanigans are happening in the background? These photos appear to be taken in some sort of auto salvage yard.

The taillights shown here on the new S-Class are a significant departure from the status quo. The W223's lights take things in a more horizontal direction than the current W222, mirroring a look we've already seen on the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Inside the S-Class is where you'll find the biggest differences. The new S-Class will trade a largely horizontal screen setup for a digital instrument cluster and display, plus a large, upright "floating" central screen. The vents have changed from round to square. The flat-bottom steering wheel and pedals suggest that we may be looking at an optional AMG package.

It's back to familiarity with the new S-Class rear seats. A seatback entertainment screen is barely visible here; along with the fully quilted upholstery, this suggests that we may be looking at a higher-trim version of the new car.