The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands as a beacon of automotive innovation, embodying the ambitious engineering priorities of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and the “Essence of Luxury.” This model year marked a significant leap forward, extending technological boundaries and solidifying the S-Class’s position not just as a flagship for Mercedes-Benz, but as a benchmark for the entire automotive industry.
Mercedes-Benz, with each generation of the S-Class, understands the high expectations of its discerning clientele. The 2015 iteration was no exception, designed to universally set new standards and rightfully claim its title as “the best automobile in the world.” Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, articulated this ambition clearly: “Rather than being about safety or aesthetics, power or efficiency, comfort or dynamism, our aspirations were ‘the best or nothing’ in every respect. No other car stands for the Mercedes-Benz brand promise more than the S-Class.”
The Essence of Luxury: Redefining Interior Opulence
The pursuit of perfection in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is palpable, manifesting as “The Essence of Luxury.” This philosophy is most vividly realized within the cabin. From the meticulously crafted seats to the advanced air conditioning system, every element of the interior – controls, design, infotainment, and safety features – showcases new ideas, painstaking execution, and an unparalleled level of perceived quality. Engineers set exceptionally high standards for this flagship model, pushing their own limits to achieve true automotive artistry.
This dedication to luxury extends beyond mere aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment of unparalleled comfort and well-being. The seats, for example, are not just places to sit, but ergonomically designed thrones offering a symphony of adjustments and support. The air conditioning system goes beyond temperature control, creating a personalized microclimate within the car. Every touchpoint, every surface, exudes quality, reinforcing the S-Class’s commitment to luxury in its purest form.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety into a Seamless Experience
Safety in the 2015 S-Class transcends traditional notions, evolving into what Mercedes-Benz terms “Intelligent Drive.” Building upon innovations like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, this new dimension seamlessly merges comfort and safety into a holistic driving experience. A suite of groundbreaking systems elevates the S-Class to unprecedented levels of comfort and security, working proactively to anticipate and mitigate potential hazards.
This integration means that safety features are not intrusive or reactive, but rather anticipatory and harmonized with the driving experience. The car becomes an intelligent partner, constantly monitoring its surroundings and subtly assisting the driver, enhancing both peace of mind and driving pleasure. “Intelligent Drive” in the 2015 S-Class is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s vision of a future where driving is not just safe, but also supremely comfortable and effortless.
Design: A Modern Statement of Status and Sensual Elegance
Globally recognized, the Mercedes-Benz design language is instantly identifiable. The classic Mercedes face, a hallmark throughout the brand’s storied history, is elegantly reimagined in the 2015 S-Class. Gorden Wagener, design chief, encapsulates the design philosophy: “The sophisticated design of the S-Class has always been an expression of luxury and automotive grandeur of its era. And our new S-Class continues this tradition. With its classic architecture and flowing silhouette, it is a modern embodiment of sensual clarity. The design draws a line from the sophisticated, progressive design idiom to the classic elegance of our 1930s cars – intelligence that speaks to the emotions. Stylish sportiness and sensual forms in synthesis with timeless clarity and effortless superiority make the S-Class a true design icon.”
The 2015 S-Class radiator grille is intentionally larger, more upright, and three-dimensional, projecting an aura of effortless superiority and leadership. Classic sedan proportions are maintained with a long hood, a flowing, domed roofline, and a gently sloping rear. The size and space convey prestige, while the powerful roofline hints at a sporty, coupe-like profile.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a character line descending gracefully from front to rear, subtly sculpts the side profile, adding dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, balancing excitement with composure. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel further accentuates the car’s athletic stance.
The rear design seamlessly integrates with the flowing lines of the side, culminating in an elegant and aerodynamically efficient form. Horizontal lines across the trunk lid and bumper emphasize the car’s width, while the rear windscreen, with its rounded upper edge flowing into the C-pillars, echoes a coupe-like aesthetic. The taillights, completely integrated into the body and meticulously detailed, represent the pinnacle of automotive lighting design.
LED Technology: Pioneering a Bulb-Free Future
A century after electric lighting revolutionized automobiles, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class marks a paradigm shift: it is the first car in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, embracing a full LED system for both interior and exterior illumination. Mercedes-Benz continues its legacy of lighting innovation, showcasing multi-level functionality in its LED system. For instance, brake light intensity automatically reduces at night or during traffic stops to minimize glare for following drivers. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle’s surroundings, the cabin, and the trunk, varying in number depending on equipment level:
- Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs each
- Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs each (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp)
- Interior (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs
Enhanced visibility is provided by upgraded Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS systems. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the 2015 S-Class achieves 360-degree vision, improving hazard detection.
Suspension: The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes” – MAGIC BODY CONTROL
The 2015 S-Class introduces another world-first innovation: ROAD SURFACE SCAN in conjunction with MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension. Using a stereo camera to scan the road ahead, the system detects bumps and imperfections. MAGIC BODY CONTROL then instantaneously adjusts the suspension to proactively counteract these irregularities, delivering an unparalleled level of ride smoothness. This advanced suspension system is available as an option, complementing the standard continuously operating Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and the enhanced AIRMATIC full air suspension.
This groundbreaking technology represents a significant leap in ride comfort. By anticipating road surface changes, MAGIC BODY CONTROL eliminates the jarring effect of bumps and dips, creating a sensation of gliding over the road. This feature underscores the 2015 S-Class’s commitment to providing the most comfortable and refined driving experience possible.
Interior: An Oasis of Visual Harmony and Serene Solidity
The interior design of the 2015 S-Class embodies the essence of a modern, luxurious saloon with its clear architecture and cutting-edge execution. The cabin’s expressive character is defined by fluid lines and sensuous elegance. Horizontal elements and lines create a sense of spaciousness and calm solidity. The seamless integration of high-quality materials with clarity and functionality defines the interior, establishing a new benchmark for ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness.
The harmonious use of materials and colors results in an exclusive interior that feels sculpted from a single piece. Generous wood trim adorns the dashboard and center console, while metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint in three shades complement the interior color scheme, emphasizing the exceptional quality.
Rear passengers are treated with equal consideration, experiencing first-class luxury. The design and exclusivity of the rear seats, door panels, and controls mirror the high standards set in the front. Rear seat packages offer further personalization, including a Business center console that blends personal comfort with practical features like additional storage and folding tables.
Control and Display Concept: A New Era of Elegant Command
The 2015 S-Class introduces a revolutionary information center comprised of two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in an 8:3 format. The left display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information, while the right display offers intuitive control over infotainment and comfort functions. This dual-screen setup reflects the increasing complexity of modern vehicles and Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to user-centric design.
The operating logic has been refined to enhance ergonomics, convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Controls and displays are grouped cohesively, both visually and functionally. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add tactile and visual refinement. The fine structuring on metal surfaces provides a distinct feel and auditory feedback, embodying Mercedes-Benz’s meticulous attention to detail.
New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an expanded favorites function with twelve customizable memory slots. The central control element remains the rotary pushbutton, complemented by direct access keys for frequently used functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems.
Enhanced Voice Control allows for complete address input in a single command (one-shot input). Voice control extends to telephone and audio systems, and a new text-to-speech feature can read aloud SMS messages and emails.
Climate Control: Engineering the Perfect Atmosphere
The climate control system in the 2015 S-Class has been comprehensively enhanced, focusing on performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and improved filtration. Rear passengers benefit from two additional climate zones for enhanced thermal comfort. A novel feature is electric heating for armrests and center consoles, extending comfort to every touchpoint.
A world-first “active perfuming system,” part of the AIR-BALANCE package, allows for personalized cabin fragrance. “Active” signifies manual on/off control and intensity adjustment. The system subtly atomizes fragrance, without permanently altering the cabin odor or depositing molecules on fabrics. The fragrance is designed to be discreet, mild, and quickly dissipating.
Seats: Mobile Offices and Centers of Well-being
Mercedes-Benz elevates seating comfort in the 2015 S-Class to new heights, introducing world-first features like the ENERGIZING massage function inspired by hot-stone therapy and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort is a particular focus, with four distinct rear seat variants, including an Executive seat with a backrest adjustable up to 43.5 degrees, ideal for work or relaxation.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a global first, utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function. Six massage programs are available, two incorporating heat. This feature is also available for rear seats.
Active seat ventilation uses innovative reversing fans. Initially, cooler ambient air is drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing surface temperature. After four minutes, fans switch to blower mode to minimize drafts.
Four seat variants are offered for the S-Class. Luxury and reclining seat variants feature redesigned adjustment kinematics, separating backrest adjustment from legroom and seat reference point. The cushion angle and horizontal position are independently adjustable.
The Executive Rear Seat Package (reclining seat) increases the maximum backrest angle to 43.5 degrees, the largest in the luxury segment. A calf support, adjustable for length and angle, and a heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat, combined with a comfort cushion, enable a reclined position setting new standards for sleeping and resting comfort in an automobile.
The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS (with rear center console) extends the front console visually to the rear, incorporating thermo-cup holders using Peltier technology for cooling or warming drinks. Aircraft-style folding tables are integrated into the center console.
Multimedia Features: Transforming the Cabin into a Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new multimedia generation debuts in the 2015 S-Class, featuring intuitive operation and enhanced visualization and animations. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat.
The Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz innovation debuting in a sedan, is standard across all audio systems. Woofers are integrated into the firewall, utilizing the approximately 40-liter space in the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber, eliminating the need for door-mounted woofers. Mid-range speakers are relocated upwards in the doors, improving sound staging and creating additional door storage.
Two premium audio systems, developed with high-end audio specialist Burmester, are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system.
The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, “Driveshow” passenger information display similar to aircraft systems, and Google Maps integration on both front and rear screens. Traffic information is displayed using hatched lines for improved clarity.
Body: Maximum Stability and Advanced Lightweight Engineering
The bodyshell of the 2015 S-Class is engineered for exceptional crash safety, torsional rigidity for superior handling, and minimized noise and vibration. It represents a third-generation aluminum hybrid design, with a 50 percent improvement in lightweight index – torsional stiffness relative to weight and vehicle size – compared to its predecessor.
Building on hybrid lightweight construction pioneered in the 220 model series in the 1990s, the 2015 S-Class further increases aluminum content to over 50 percent. This advanced material strategy maintains or slightly reduces body weight despite increased comfort and safety demands and added features. Structural foams are strategically used in node areas. The entire outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is aluminum. High-strength steel is extensively used in the safety passenger cell.
Intelligent Drive: Sensory Integration for Enhanced Awareness
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy, driven by accident research, informs the “Intelligent Drive” systems in the 2015 S-Class. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems work in concert to improve both comfort and safety. Prof. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, explains, “Intelligent assistance systems analyse complex situations and better recognize potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems. Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.”
Sensor fusion, the networking of all systems, is key to comprehensive protection for vehicle occupants and other road users. Support functions range from driver assistance and comfort enhancement to visual, acoustic, and tactile warnings and, in emergencies, corrective actions like autonomous braking. Key assistance systems include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to maintain lane centering.
- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, enhancing braking power.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes and oncoming traffic, mitigating unintentional lane departure risk.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Enables permanent high beams without dazzling other drivers.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Enhanced with a thermal imaging camera, alerts drivers to pedestrians or animals in unlit areas, and includes a spotlight function to flash detected hazards.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior, warning against inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and provides fatigue status and break recommendations.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention is Paramount
Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, introduced a decade prior, is further advanced in the 2015 S-Class. New PRE-SAFE® functions aim to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in city traffic, mitigate rear-end collision risks, and enhance seat belt protection.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Detects imminent rear-end collisions, applies vehicle brakes to minimize whiplash risk, and deploys anticipatory occupant protection measures.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt release reduces body pressure during frontal collisions, minimizing injury severity.
Setting Rear Seat Safety Standards: Innovations for Back Passengers
Mercedes-Benz extends safety to rear passengers with features like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag, included in the Rear Seat Package. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender uses an electric motor to extend and retract the buckle, reducing belt slack for improved occupant restraint.
The beltbag, an inflatable seatbelt strap, reduces ribcage injury risk in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard in Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining (sliding under the seat belt) in reclined seats during accidents, enabling a comfortable reclining seat with enhanced safety.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing:
- MY2015 S550 – $94,400
- MY2015 S550 4MATIC – $97,400
- MY2015 S600 – $166,900
- MY2015 S63 AMG 4MATIC – $141,450
- MY2015 S65 AMG – $222,000
MY2016 Mercedes-Maybach S600 Sedan: – “around $200,000” (Spring 2015 Launch)
Standard Equipment Highlights (S550):
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- LED Ambient Lighting with 7 colors, 5 dimming levels, and 4 dimming zones
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package: Fragrance, ionization, and filtration of air through the HVAC system
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL: Road surface scan, automatic damping adjustment for individual or multiple wheels.
- ENERGIZING massage function: Hot-stone principle seat massage.
- Rear Seat Package: Rear seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear, 4-Zone Climate Control, electrically adjustable right-rear footrest.
- Warmth & Comfort Package: Heated steering wheel, heated front/rear armrests, heated & active ventilated rear seats.
- New generation Driver Assistance Package: Advanced Active Lane Keeping Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist & BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist, PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition.
- New generation Active Parking Assist: Semi-automatic curbside parking function.
Model Positioning (Mercedes-Benz S550/S600):
- The epitome of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
- Industry-leading, refined & luxurious interior.
- Trailblazing innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety.
- Efficient drive concepts and fuel economy.
The Main Competitors (Mercedes-Benz S550 / S600):
- BMW 7 Series
- Audi A8
- Lexus LS
Safety Features Highlights:
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- ATTENTION ASSIST®
- Surround View Camera
- PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist & BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist
- Rear seatbelt airbags and PRE-SAFE rear active belt buckles
- PRE-SAFE Impulse (seat belt action)
- Night View Assist PLUS
- PRE-SAFE PLUS® for rear-end collision
- PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition
At a Glance: 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Specifications
| S550 | S550 4MATIC | S600 | Mercedes-Maybach S600 | S63 AMG 4MATIC | S65 AMG | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $94,400 | $97,400 | $166,900 | “around $200k” | $141,450 | $222,000 |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | 17/26/20 | 16/26/19 | 12/21/15 | TBD | 15/23/18 | 13/20/15 |
| Engine | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 6.0L V12 Bi-turbo with direct injection |
| Performance | 449 hp @ 516 lb.-ft. torque | 449 hp @ 516 lb.-ft. torque | 523 hp @ 612 lb.-ft. torque | 523 hp @ 612 lb.-ft. torque | 577 @ 664 lb.-ft. torque | 621 @ 738 lb.-ft. torque |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec. | 4.8 sec. | 4.5 sec. | 5.0 sec. | 3.9 sec. | 4.2 sec. |
| Drive Configuration | RWD | All-Wheel Drive | RWD | RWD | All-Wheel Drive | RWD |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Driver- Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Comfort Shift | 7-Speed Driver- Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Comfort Shift | 7-Speed Driver- Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Comfort Shift | 7-Speed Driver- Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Comfort Shift | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7- SPEED Transmission |
| Dimensions | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | TBA | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | TBA |
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class transcends the definition of a car; it is a mobile sanctuary of luxury, a technological tour-de-force, and a testament to automotive passion. It is not merely about transportation, but about elevating the driving experience to an art form. The 2015 S-Class definitively answers the aspiration to create “the best or nothing,” setting an enduring benchmark for luxury sedans worldwide.
