Leinfelden-Echterdingen/Brussels – Following the Coach Euro Test 2025, 24 trade journalists from 24 countries agreed: The Setra TopClass is the new “Coach of the Year 2026”. In the test series carried out in September, an S 516 HDH from the premium model series delivered across the board. The award was presented at the European trade fair “Busworld Europe 2025”, which is taking place from October 4 to 9 in Brussels.

For Till Oberwörder, the award is confirmation that the Setra TopClass models are flagship products that are setting industry standards – as now also recognized in the journalistic field: “The highest safety standards and maximum effective profitability are two areas that stand out with the premium model series. A multitude of technical innovations and modern solutions are the basis for this international trophy.”

“For the jury, the Setra TopClass is the clear winner of the “Coach of the Year 2026” trophy. We were particularly impressed by the complete package of driver assistance and safety systems. Their technical finesse and high effectiveness prove how strongly the brand is committed to the well‑being of passengers and drivers on journeys with this premium model series,” says Gianluca Ventura, the new Chair of the Jury. The editor‑in‑chief of the Italian trade magazine Pullman took over from Tom Terjesen from Norway. The new Vice Chair is Sascha Böhnke, who reports from the industry for the German Omnibusrevue. The international “Coach of the Year” award has been awarded since 1989, when the committee only consisted of 12 journalists. Today, there are twice as many members in the jury.

In addition to the double‑decker bus S 531 DT, the Setra TopClass consists of three models: S 515 HDH, S 516 HDH and S 517 HDH, which are available in lengths from 12.5 to 14.2 meters. They are all characterized by stability, agile driving behavior, and maximum individual versatility. The three three-axle vehicles are powered by the OM 471 in‑line six‑cylinder diesel engine. The standard power output is 350 kW (476 hp), optionally 375 kW (510 hp). In Setra TopClass vehicles, all engines are coupled with the fully automated GO 250‑8 PowerShift manual transmission.

Daimler Buses also saw success at this year’s Busworld Vehicle Awards, which were presented for the 22nd time. The Setra S 515 HD received the “Excellence Label” in both the Coach Safety and Coach Comfort categories. The 30‑member jury recognized the vehicle’s efficient and versatile driver assistance and safety systems, as well as the outstanding comfort of the test vehicle, which was equipped with features such as Attention Assist 2 and the ABA6 Plus adaptive cruise control system. The Mercedes‑Benz eCitaro was also honored. The fully electric transit bus received the “Excellence Label” in the Bus Comfort category. The test vehicle was equipped with the fourth and latest generation of NMC4 batteries, which combine extended range with long service life.