The Epitome of Automotive Excellence: Exploring the 2017 S-Class Mercedes

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been synonymous with automotive luxury, innovation, and peerless craftsmanship. For the 2017 model year, this flagship sedan continued to solidify its position at the pinnacle of the premium vehicle segment, introducing a range of enhancements and new variants that further elevated its appeal. As experts at cardetailinguk.com, we delve into the details of the 2017 S-Class Mercedes, exploring what made it a benchmark for both luxury and performance, and why it remains a sought-after model for discerning owners who appreciate meticulous car care and detailing.

For 2017, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup expanded, most notably with the inclusion of a new Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC variant. This model joined the established Maybach S600, offering an unparalleled level of opulence and bespoke features. The Maybach S550 4MATIC combined the prestigious Maybach name with a potent 4.7L V8 biturbo engine and the confidence of 4MATIC all-wheel drive, ensuring both supreme comfort and capable performance in various driving conditions.

Alt text: Close-up of the elegant chrome grille and Maybach emblem on a 2017 Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC, highlighting its luxurious design.

Further enhancing the driving experience across the range, the 2017 S550 and S550 4MATIC models received the advanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. This sophisticated transmission, developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz, replaced the previous 7G-TRONIC unit. The benefits were immediately noticeable: smoother and faster gear changes, improved fuel efficiency, and a more refined overall driving experience. The lighter construction of the 9G-TRONIC transmission also contributed to enhanced vehicle dynamics. Paired with the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the S550 4MATIC Sedan was engineered to deliver exceptional stability and control, regardless of the road surface or weather conditions.

Alt text: Interior view of a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class showcasing the luxurious cabin and the gear selector for the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.

A groundbreaking new option for the 2017 S-Class was the MAGIC SKY CONTROL® panoramic roof. This innovative feature allowed occupants to adjust the roof’s transparency at the touch of a button, transitioning seamlessly between transparent and opaque. Both front and rear passengers could independently control their respective roof sections, providing personalized comfort and ambiance within the cabin. This feature not only added a touch of futuristic technology but also enhanced the sense of spaciousness and light within the already luxurious interior.

Alt text: The MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic roof of a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class transitioning to opaque, demonstrating its advanced light control technology.

Enhanced Connectivity and Technology

Mercedes-Benz has consistently been at the forefront of automotive technology, and the 2017 S-Class was no exception. Building upon their pioneering work in automotive emergency calling, Mercedes-Benz upgraded their mbrace Connected Car Services. The new mbrace Connect package became standard across all 2017 S-Class models, offering five years of complimentary service. This comprehensive package included a suite of digital features such as a Mobile App, Web Services, Roadside Connection, MB Apps, Vehicle Homepage (for EVs), Diagnostics Data, and Remote Update capabilities. The inclusion of Remote Start via the mbrace Mobile App further enhanced convenience for owners.

Beyond the standard package, customers could also choose from three mbrace subscription upgrades: mbrace® Secure, mbrace® Concierge, and mbrace® Entertain. These packages offered enhanced security features, personalized concierge services, and expanded entertainment options, respectively. The audio experience was also improved with the introduction of HD Voice for compatible mobile devices, ensuring crystal-clear call quality. Furthermore, models equipped with COMAND® now included SiriusXM® Traffic & Weather as standard for five years, providing real-time traffic updates and weather information directly to the navigation system.

A Diverse Lineup for Discerning Tastes

The 2017 S-Class Sedan catered to a broad spectrum of luxury car buyers, offering seven distinct models, each with its unique powertrain and characteristics:

S550e Plug-in Hybrid: Representing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable luxury, the S550e combined a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with a 132kW electric motor. This hybrid powertrain delivered a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, achieving up to 58 MPGe in Hybrid Mode. Its availability nationwide signaled Mercedes-Benz’s broader push into the plug-in hybrid market.
S550: The quintessential luxury sedan, powered by a direct-injection 4.6L V8 biturbo engine producing 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive provided enhanced traction and stability.
S600: The pinnacle of traditional luxury, featuring a potent 6.0L V12 biturbo engine with 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. This model prioritized ultimate smoothness and effortless power delivery.
Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC: Bridging the gap between the S-Class and ultra-luxury, the Maybach S550 4MATIC offered a 4.7L biturbo V8 engine (449 hp / 516 lb-ft) and an extended 132.5-inch wheelbase, maximizing rear passenger space and comfort.
Mercedes-Maybach S600: The flagship of the Maybach lineup, boasting a 6.0L biturbo V12 (523 hp / 612 lb-ft) and the same extended 132.5-inch wheelbase as the S550 Maybach, focusing on unparalleled luxury and refinement.
S63 AMG 4MATIC: For driving enthusiasts seeking high performance, the S63 AMG 4MATIC featured a handbuilt AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, generating 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, coupled with AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC for dynamic handling.
S65 AMG: The ultimate performance S-Class, powered by a handbuilt AMG 6.0L biturbo V12, delivering a staggering 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. This model prioritized exhilarating performance and exclusive AMG styling.

The Pioneering S550e Plug-in Hybrid

The S550e marked a significant milestone as the first plug-in hybrid model from Mercedes-Benz. Launched initially in California and then expanded nationwide, the S550e combined a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with a powerful 132kW electric motor. This synergistic powertrain resulted in an impressive combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 5.2 seconds. Despite its performance capabilities, the S550e also achieved remarkable fuel efficiency, with EPA estimates of 54 city / 63 highway MPGe. It could operate in full electric mode at speeds up to 80 mph for moderate distances, with a lithium-ion battery that could be fully charged in approximately 2.5 hours.

The S550e offered drivers a choice of four operating modes:

HYBRID: The default mode, optimizing efficiency by seamlessly blending electric and gasoline power.
E-MODE: Prioritizing electric driving, utilizing battery power alone up to 80 mph, with an estimated 12-mile range.
E-SAVE: Maintaining the battery’s charge level for later use, ideal for preserving electric range for city driving.
CHARGE: Charging the battery while driving using the gasoline engine, useful for replenishing battery power on longer journeys.

To further enhance efficiency, the S550e incorporated several intelligent technologies. A haptic accelerator pedal provided feedback to the driver, indicating the threshold for electric driving and engaging the gasoline engine when pressed further. The radar-based regenerative braking system utilized onboard radar to recapture energy during braking and deceleration, adapting to traffic conditions. Models equipped with DISTRONIC PLUS benefited from an enhanced regenerative braking system with extended forward vision. The system also featured a Sailing function, decoupling the transmission to allow the car to coast and further conserve energy.

Alt text: Close-up of the charging port on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550e plug-in hybrid, showcasing its electric vehicle capabilities.

The Route-Based Battery Optimization Strategy leveraged data from the COMAND® navigation system to optimize electric driving and regenerative braking based on route information, such as downhill gradients and driving environment (highway vs. city). Even without active route guidance, the Predictive Operation Strategy analyzed the road ahead up to four miles to enhance efficiency. Smartphone integration allowed drivers to monitor battery charge status, remotely activate climate control, and view range on a map via the vehicle homepage. In California, the S550e was also eligible for an HOV Green Clean Air sticker, offering access to carpool lanes.

Mercedes-Maybach: Reimagining Grandeur

The Mercedes-Maybach brand, reintroduced by Mercedes-Benz, represented the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity. For 2017, the lineup expanded to include the Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC, alongside the flagship S600. These models evoked the grandeur of coachbuilt luxury automobiles from the early 20th century, offering unparalleled space, power, and opportunities for bespoke personalization.

Based on the S-Class but with an extended 132.5-inch wheelbase and measuring just under 215 inches in overall length, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 offered limousine-like proportions. MAGIC BODY CONTROL®, utilizing a forward stereo camera to proactively adjust the suspension for upcoming road imperfections, was standard on these models, as was the full suite of Intelligent Drive technologies.

The 7.9-inch wheelbase increase over the standard S-Class directly translated to enhanced rear passenger comfort. Standard Executive seats allowed rear occupants to recline and enjoy the dual-screen rear seat entertainment system. Available amenities included a rear console refrigerator for champagne and Robbe & Berking silver-plated flutes. The interior appointments were akin to a private jet cabin, featuring hand-stitched Nappa leather, fine wood trim, and subtle chrome accents. Optional foldout tables added a further touch of aircraft-inspired functionality.

The Mercedes-Maybach S600’s 6.0L V12 biturbo engine delivered effortless performance with near-silent operation. Indeed, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 was engineered to be the world’s quietest car cabin, with meticulous attention to sound insulation and noise reduction. The standard Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system, featuring 24 speakers including ceiling-mounted surround speakers and rotating, illuminated tweeters, provided an immersive audio experience within this tranquil environment.

The Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC offered a similar level of luxury and refinement, powered by a 4.7L V8 biturbo engine and equipped with the smooth-shifting 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensured confident handling in all conditions.

Design: Modern Elegance and Timeless Proportions

The design of the 2017 S-Class embodied a harmonious blend of modern elegance and classic luxury sedan proportions. Its long hood, flowing roofline inspired by coupes, and gently sloping rear created a silhouette that was both dynamic and timeless. Discreet character lines along the body sides accentuated a sense of motion, while the pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel hinted at the car’s athletic character.

Notably, the new-generation S-Class was the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, utilizing nearly 500 LEDs for all lighting functions, both exterior and interior. Depending on the specific equipment, this included up to 56 LEDs per headlamp, 35 LEDs per taillight (plus additional LEDs for the rear fog lamp), and approximately 300 LEDs for the interior and ambient lighting.

Alt text: Detailed view of the advanced LED headlights on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, showcasing its sophisticated lighting technology.

Visibility was further enhanced by upgraded assistance systems, including Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist® PLUS. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, the S-Class achieved 360-degree all-round vision, improving hazard detection compared to previous generations.

Interior: Ultra-Quiet Sanctuary of Comfort

The interior of the 2017 S-Class was a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and passenger comfort. The cabin seamlessly fused functionality with luxurious materials, creating an environment that was both inviting and technologically advanced. The coordinated use of materials and colors resulted in an interior that felt cohesive and meticulously crafted.

Generous amounts of wood trim, available in five distinct types, adorned the dashboard and center console. Metallized switch surfaces, offered in three pearl-effect paint finishes, added a touch of modern sophistication.

Digital Command Center: On the Big Screens

The information center of the 2017 S-Class was dominated by two 12.3-inch high-resolution TFT color displays in 8:3 format. The left-hand display replaced the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential vehicle information to the driver. The right-hand display served as the control center for infotainment and comfort functions, managed through the COMAND® with Navigation system. This dual-screen setup created a visually striking and functionally integrated digital cockpit.

The COMAND® central controller, ergonomically positioned for ease of use, combined a touchpad, rotary knob, and direct-access keys for major functions. The touchpad recognized a variety of finger gestures, including swipe, pinch, and handwriting, offering intuitive control. Carousel-style on-screen menus mirrored the rotary knob’s movement, making system navigation logical and user-friendly.

Beyond the displays, the metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls exemplified the high level of material quality and attention to detail that defined a Mercedes-Benz interior. Each control offered a satisfying tactile feel and precise operation.

The Enhanced Voice Control System allowed drivers to input complete addresses in a single command. Telephone and audio systems could also be voice-controlled, and the system could read text messages (SMS) or emails aloud, enhancing convenience and minimizing driver distraction.

Seating: Supreme Comfort and Mobile Office Functionality

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been a benchmark for seating comfort, and the 2017 model upheld this tradition. The standard 16-way power-adjustable seats, including cushion length adjustment and 4-way power lumbar support, provided exceptional personalized comfort. A memory system for each front seat recalled three stored seat positions, along with power steering column and side mirror settings. Standard heating with automatic timed step-down added further comfort in colder climates.

The optional Premium Package elevated seating comfort to new heights with ventilation and massage functions. The innovative ENERGIZING massage function, based on the hot-stone principle, utilized 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest and an integrated warming function. Six massage programs, including two with warming, were available for both front and rear seats.

The active seat ventilation system employed reversing fans, initially drawing cooler ambient air onto the seat surface to rapidly reduce temperature before switching to blower mode to prevent drafts.

The S-Class offered a choice of four different rear seat configurations. Unlike traditional designs, the S-Class reclining rear backrest adjusted separately from the seat cushion, maintaining consistent legroom. The cushion itself could be adjusted for angle and horizontal position.

The Executive Rear Seat Package offered a maximum backrest angle of 43.5 degrees, the most generous in the luxury segment. The reclining seat included a calf support, adjustable for length and angle. Combined with a heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat in front and an additional comfort cushion, this package provided unparalleled rear seat relaxation.

Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS included a rear center console extending from the front console, featuring thermo cup holders and foldout tables, further enhancing the mobile office capabilities and rear passenger amenities.

Climate Control and AIR-BALANCE Package

The 2017 S-Class continued the model’s tradition of introducing advanced climate control technologies. Mercedes-Benz focused on optimizing temperature regulation, noise reduction, and overall comfort. Rear passengers benefited from a dedicated automatic climate control system with two additional zones. Electric heating for armrests and center consoles added a further layer of luxury.

The AIR-BALANCE package incorporated enhanced ionization and filtration, along with active perfuming. This world-first feature allowed drivers to personalize the cabin scent with a discreet and mild fragrance that dissipated quickly and did not leave residue on fabrics or clothing. The intensity and on/off control of the perfuming system were fully adjustable by the driver and passengers.

Mobile Concert Hall: Burmester Sound Systems

The multimedia system in the 2017 S-Class was designed to deliver an immersive and intuitive entertainment experience. The multi-user system allowed independent access to media sources from any seat.

The innovative Frontbass system, pioneered by Mercedes-Benz, was integrated into all S-Class audio systems. Woofers were strategically housed in the firewall, utilizing the cross-member and side member as resonance chambers, eliminating the need for conventional door-mounted woofers. This configuration improved sound quality and created additional storage space in the doors.

Mercedes-Benz partnered with renowned German audio specialist Burmester® to develop bespoke surround sound systems for the S-Class. The standard system featured 13 speakers and a 590-watt 9-channel digital amplifier, delivering pure digital surround sound with ambient noise compensation. Optional was the Burmester® 3D surround sound system, a pinnacle of mobile high-end audio. This system boasted a 1,520-watt amplifier, 24 speakers (including ceiling-mounted surround speakers and rotating, illuminated tweeters), and a trunk-mounted subwoofer with its own 400-watt amplifier. Four preset listening modes allowed for customized audio experiences.

Body and Safety: Foundation for Excellence

The body structure of the 2017 S-Class utilized a sophisticated combination of aluminum and high-strength steels, while the entire outer skin was crafted from aluminum. This lightweight construction contributed to both fuel efficiency and structural rigidity, enhancing safety and handling.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL®: Suspension with “Eyes”

The S-Class has long been recognized for its exceptional balance of ride comfort and agility. The standard AIRMATIC full air suspension system, continuously refined over generations, included the Adaptive Damping System (ADS® PLUS).

However, the optional MAGIC BODY CONTROL® represented a true technological leap. This system used ROAD SURFACE SCAN, employing a stereo camera to “read” the road surface ahead and proactively adjust the suspension to minimize the impact of bumps and undulations. This resulted in an incredibly smooth and composed ride, seemingly negating road imperfections.

Intelligent Drive: Merging Safety and Comfort

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has historically been a pioneer in automotive safety and driver assistance technologies. The 2017 model continued this legacy with Intelligent Drive, a suite of advanced systems designed to enhance both safety and driving comfort. These systems relied on a network of sensors, including a stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, achieving comprehensive “sensor fusion” for enhanced situational awareness.

Key Intelligent Drive Features:

COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS (standard): Radar-based system that warns the driver of potential collisions with vehicles ahead or stationary objects and provides adaptive braking assistance. It can also initiate autonomous braking at speeds up to 65 mph and activate PRE-SAFE® features.
DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
Brake Assist system BAS® PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians and enhances braking force applied by the driver.
Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes and can apply brakes on one side to prevent unintentional lane departure.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Continuously adjusts high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers.
Night View Assist® PLUS: Enhanced night vision system with thermal imaging camera, highlighting pedestrians and animals in unlit areas and featuring a spotlight function to flash detected pedestrians.
ATTENTION ASSIST®: Monitors driver behavior and warns of inattentiveness and drowsiness.

Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection

Building upon Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, the 2017 S-Class introduced enhanced PRE-SAFE® functions:

PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions and can apply the vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash injuries and reduce the risk of secondary accidents.
PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Releases tension on seat belts in a controlled manner during frontal collisions to reduce chest and ribcage pressure.

Rear Passenger Safety Innovations

Mercedes-Benz extended its commitment to safety to rear seat passengers with innovations like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag, available as part of the optional Rear Seat Package.

The illuminated seat belt buckle extender automatically extends and retracts, reducing belt slack and ensuring optimal passenger restraint. The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap designed to reduce ribcage injuries in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard with Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining (sliding under the seat belt) in reclined rear seats during accidents.

AMG Performance and Style: Unrivaled Driving Dynamics

For driving enthusiasts, the 2017 S-Class lineup included two high-performance Mercedes-AMG models: the S63 4MATIC and the S65.

The AMG S63 4MATIC featured a handbuilt AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine producing 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, paired with AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The AMG S65 boasted a handbuilt AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, delivering a staggering 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, with rear-wheel drive.

Both AMG models featured distinctive AMG styling cues, including AMG-design lower bodywork, a front end with large air intakes, and a rear diffuser with trapezoidal exhaust tips. Exclusive AMG sports seats provided optimal support and long-distance comfort.

Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a 2017 Mercedes-AMG S63, showcasing its aggressive styling and performance-oriented design.

AMG S63 Performance Highlights:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 7-speed sports transmission
AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering
AMG high-performance compound brake system

The AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension dynamically adjusted to various driving conditions, offering a balance of comfort and track-ready handling.

AMG S65 Performance Highlights:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC sports transmission
AMG Active Sport Suspension (based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL®)
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering
AMG high-performance compound brake system
MAGIC BODY CONTROL® suspension with ROAD SURFACE SCAN and Curve mode

The AMG S65 leveraged the advanced MAGIC BODY CONTROL® suspension, tuned for AMG performance, to deliver a unique blend of cornering prowess and ride comfort.

Conclusion: The 2017 S-Class – A Continuing Legacy of Excellence

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class represented the ongoing evolution of a legendary model, reaffirming its position as the benchmark in the luxury automotive segment. With its expanded model range, including the ultra-luxurious Maybach variants and the efficient S550e plug-in hybrid, the S-Class catered to a diverse range of discerning buyers. Its advancements in technology, safety, comfort, and performance ensured that the 2017 S-Class Mercedes remained the epitome of automotive excellence. For owners who demand the very best, the S-Class continues to be a vehicle worthy of the most meticulous care and detailing, ensuring its timeless elegance and sophisticated engineering are preserved for years to come.