The 2016 Mercedes S Class marked a continuation of automotive excellence, reinforcing its status as the benchmark for luxury sedans worldwide. This model year showcased Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to innovation, passenger comfort, and performance, offering a spectrum of models from the eco-conscious plug-in hybrid to the high-performance AMG variants. For discerning drivers seeking the ultimate in sophistication and technology, the 2016 S Class delivered an unparalleled experience.
Explore the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S Class Model Range and Pricing
Mercedes-Benz offered a diverse 2016 S Class lineup, each meticulously engineered to cater to specific preferences and driving needs. From fuel-efficient luxury to exhilarating power, the range included:
- Mercedes-Benz S550e Plug-in Hybrid: Starting at $95,650, the S550e represented a leap towards sustainable luxury. Available in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) states, it seamlessly blended a potent V6 engine with an advanced electric motor, offering both impressive fuel economy and refined performance. This model catered to environmentally conscious buyers without compromising on the opulent S-Class experience.
- Mercedes-Benz S550: Priced at $95,650, the S550 remained a cornerstone of the S-Class family. Powered by a robust 4.7-liter biturbo V8 engine, it delivered effortless power and quintessential S-Class comfort, embodying traditional luxury and performance in perfect harmony.
- Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC: With a starting MSRP of $98,650, the S550 4MATIC enhanced the standard S550 with the addition of Mercedes-Benz’s renowned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent system provided superior traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for drivers seeking year-round confidence.
- Mercedes-Benz S600: Positioned at the pinnacle of luxury before reaching the AMG range, the S600 started at $169,050. Its V12 engine provided immense power and unparalleled smoothness, coupled with an even more lavishly appointed interior and exclusive features, solidifying its status as the ultimate expression of traditional S-Class luxury.
- Mercedes-AMG S63 4MATIC: For performance enthusiasts, the AMG S63 4MATIC, starting at $143,250, delivered breathtaking power and dynamic handling. The handcrafted 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine, combined with AMG-tuned 4MATIC all-wheel drive, ensured blistering acceleration and exceptional agility, without sacrificing the inherent luxury of the S-Class.
- Mercedes-AMG S65: The apex of the 2016 S-Class range, the AMG S65 commanded a price of $224,650. Its handcrafted 6.0-liter biturbo V12 engine produced colossal power and torque, delivering an unmatched driving experience. Exclusively rear-wheel drive and meticulously crafted by AMG, the S65 represented the ultimate fusion of luxury and high-performance engineering.
(Note: All prices listed exclude a $925 delivery & destination charge.)
Key Updates and Enhancements for the 2016 S-Class Model Year
The 2016 model year brought strategic updates to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, further enhancing its appeal and technological leadership:
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Debut of the S550e Plug-in Hybrid: The introduction of the S550e marked a significant step towards electrification within the luxury segment. This new model demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing efficient and environmentally conscious options without compromising the luxury and performance expected from the S-Class. Its availability in ZEV states highlighted its focus on markets prioritizing emissions reduction.
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Enhanced Driver Assistance Package with Speed Limit Assist: The Driver Assistance Package, already comprehensive, was further improved with the addition of Speed Limit Assist. This intelligent system helped drivers stay within legal speed limits, contributing to safer and more relaxed driving, especially on unfamiliar roads.
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New Exterior Paint Options: To further personalize the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz introduced two new metallic paint colors: Selenite Grey metallic and Emerald Green metallic. These additions expanded the palette of sophisticated exterior choices, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicles to their individual tastes.
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights of the 2016 S-Class (S550 Example)
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550, even in its standard configuration, was generously equipped with features designed to elevate every aspect of the driving and passenger experience:
Standard Equipment Highlights (S550):
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Comprehensive Safety Suite: Including COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS and ATTENTION ASSIST®, the S550 prioritized occupant safety and driver awareness, providing peace of mind on every journey.
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Advanced Lighting Technology: All-LED exterior lights not only provided superior illumination and visibility but also contributed to the S-Class’s sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
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AIRMATIC® Air Suspension with Adaptive Damping System: This sophisticated suspension system delivered the legendary S-Class ride comfort, adapting to road conditions and driving style for a supremely smooth and controlled experience.
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Cutting-Edge COMAND® System: Featuring a touchpad and controller, the COMAND® system provided intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings, seamlessly integrating technology into the driving experience.
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Luxurious Seating and Sound: Heated 16-way power front seats with memory ensured personalized comfort, while the Burmester® Surround Sound System delivered an immersive audio experience, transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels.
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Ambient Lighting and Air Quality: LED Ambient Lighting with a spectrum of 7 colors, 5 dimming levels, and 4 dimming zones allowed for customizable cabin ambiance. The Air Balance Package further enhanced the interior environment through fragrance diffusion, ionization, and air filtration.
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
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ENERGIZING Massage Function: This innovative seat massage function, inspired by hot-stone therapy, provided an unparalleled level of relaxation and well-being for front occupants, particularly beneficial on long journeys.
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Rear Seat Package: Transforming the rear cabin into a sanctuary of luxury, the Rear Seat Package included rear seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear seat belt buckles, 4-Zone climate control, a power-adjustable right-rear footrest, and the ability to move the front passenger seat forward an additional 3.0 inches, maximizing rear passenger space and comfort.
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Warmth & Comfort Package: This package elevated cabin comfort to new heights, featuring a heated steering wheel, heated front/rear center & door armrests, heated and ventilated rear seats, and power rear seats with memory, ensuring optimal comfort in all climates.
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Next-Generation Driver Assistance Package: Pushing the boundaries of driver-assistance technology, this package included DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS Rear-end collision protection, PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition, and Traffic Sign Assist, creating a semi-autonomous driving experience and significantly enhancing safety.
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Night View Assist PLUS: Improving visibility in nighttime driving, Night View Assist PLUS used infrared technology to detect pedestrians and animals beyond the range of headlights, displaying them in the instrument cluster and enhancing driver awareness.
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Surround View Camera: The Surround View Camera system provided a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier and safer.
Model Positioning and Key Competitors in the Luxury Sedan Segment
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class firmly maintained its position as the flagship model, representing the zenith of the Mercedes-Benz brand. It was positioned as the ultimate expression of luxury, innovation, and driving refinement, targeting discerning buyers who demanded the best in automotive engineering and passenger experience.
Key competitors in the highly competitive luxury sedan segment included:
- BMW 7 Series
- Audi A8
- Lexus LS
2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Specifications: A Detailed Overview
| Feature | S550 | S550 4MATIC | S550e | S63 AMG 4MATIC | S65 AMG |
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| Dimensions (L/W/H) – in. | 206.5/83.9/58.7 | 206.5/83.9/58.7 | 206.5/83.9/58.7 | 206.5/83.9/58.7 | 206.5/83.9/58.7 |
| Engine | 4.7-liter biturbo V8 | 4.7-liter biturbo V8 | 3.0-liter biturbo V6 and hybrid electric motor | 5.5-liter biturbo V8 | 6.0-liter biturbo V12 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic RWD | 7-speed automatic AWD | 7-speed automatic RWD | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS MCT 7-speed AWD | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC RWD |
| Performance (Horsepower/Torque) | 449 hp / 516 lb-ft | 449 hp / 516 lb-ft | 329 gas /114 electric hp, 354 gas/251 electric lb-ft | 577 hp / 664 lb-ft | 621 hp / 738 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph (sec.) | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5.2 | 3.9 | 4.2 |
| Fuel Economy — mpg (EPA city/hwy/comb) | 17/26/20 | 16/26/19 | TBA | 15/23/18 | 13/20/15 |
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class solidified its position as the pinnacle of luxury sedans, offering an unmatched blend of groundbreaking technology, opulent comfort, and exhilarating performance across its diverse model range. Whether prioritizing efficiency with the innovative S550e plug-in hybrid or seeking ultimate power with the AMG S65, the 2016 S-Class catered to the most discerning clientele, continuing its legacy as the ultimate symbol of automotive excellence and setting the standard for luxury vehicles worldwide.
