The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerged with a clear mission: to redefine the boundaries of automotive technology and luxury. Built upon three core engineering principles – “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury” – this iteration of the S-Class wasn’t just a step forward for Mercedes-Benz; it was a leap for the entire automotive industry. Mercedes-Benz aimed for nothing less than “the best or nothing” in every facet of this vehicle, from safety and aesthetics to power and comfort. This commitment to perfection solidified the S-Class’s position as the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand and, arguably, “the best automobile in the world.”
The Essence of Luxury: Interior and Craftsmanship
The pursuit of “The Essence of Luxury” is palpable in every detail of the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015, particularly within its meticulously crafted interior. From the moment you settle into the seats, you’re enveloped in an environment of unparalleled comfort and sophistication. The engineers and designers left no stone unturned, focusing on every element, from the climate control system to the intuitive controls, the elegant design, and the state-of-the-art infotainment system. Each aspect was painstakingly realized with new ideas and the highest perceived quality, setting new benchmarks for flagship luxury models. This dedication to detail ensures that every interaction with the interior of the Mercedes Benz S 2015 is an experience in refined luxury.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety
Ten years prior to this model, Mercedes-Benz pioneered PRE-SAFE®, followed by DISTRONIC PLUS, innovations that laid the groundwork for what is now known as “Intelligent Drive.” In the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015, comfort and safety are not just enhanced; they are seamlessly merged into a holistic driving experience. A suite of new systems elevates both comfort and safety to unprecedented levels. This “Intelligent Drive” system represents a significant advancement, making the Mercedes Benz S 2015 not only incredibly comfortable but also exceptionally safe, anticipating and mitigating potential hazards on the road.
Design Philosophy: Sensual Clarity and Modern Status
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are instantly recognizable globally, carrying a design DNA that spans the brand’s illustrious history. The 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 design embodies a modern interpretation of status and luxury, characterized by “sensual clarity.” According to design chief Gorden Wagener, the S-Class design represents “a modern embodiment of sensual clarity,” drawing inspiration from the sophisticated, progressive design language of today while paying homage to the classic elegance of 1930s Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This design philosophy seamlessly blends stylish sportiness with sensual forms, resulting in a timeless clarity and effortless superiority that cements the S-Class as a true design icon.
To further emphasize the new S-Class’s leadership ambition and effortless superiority, the radiator grille is designed to be larger, more upright, and distinctly three-dimensional. Coupled with a long hood, a flowing, domed roofline, and a subtly slanting rear, the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 maintains classic sedan proportions while projecting prestige and a sporty, coupé-like silhouette.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a character line that gracefully descends from the front to the rear, elegantly structures the side profile, adding a sense of dynamic motion even when the car is stationary. The subtle interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks creates a powerful and elongated body that exudes both excitement and composure. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel further accentuates the vehicle’s athletic stance.
The rear design of the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 continues the theme of positively exaggerated surfaces and lines, flowing seamlessly from the side walls. The slightly slanting rear form is not only elegant but also aerodynamically advantageous. Horizontal lines extending from the trunk lid to the bumper emphasize the car’s width, enhancing its commanding presence. The rear windscreen, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz design, subtly integrates into the C-pillars, rounded at the top to echo a coupé-like aesthetic. The newly designed tail lights, fully integrated into the car body with meticulously crafted internal elements, complete the design with exceptional attention to detail.
LED Technology: A World First in Automotive Lighting
Marking a century since electric lighting was introduced to automobiles, the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 achieves a remarkable milestone: it is the first vehicle in the world to eliminate light bulbs entirely, embracing full LED technology for both interior and exterior lighting. This pioneering move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in automotive lighting innovation. The lighting system features multi-level functionality, a world first designed with consideration for other road users. For instance, the intensity of the brake lights intelligently reduces at night or when waiting at traffic lights to minimize glare for drivers behind. In total, nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle’s surroundings, the interior, and the trunk, depending on the specific equipment and configuration.
This comprehensive LED system includes:
- Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs per headlamp, providing exceptional illumination and clarity.
- Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs per tail light, plus an additional 4 LEDs for the rear fog lamp, ensuring high visibility and distinctive styling.
- Interior Lighting (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs, creating a luxurious and customizable cabin atmosphere.
Visibility is further enhanced by advanced driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS, both significantly improved for the 2015 model year. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the Mercedes Benz S 2015 offers 360-degree all-around vision, enhancing the driver’s awareness of potential hazards.
Suspension: MAGIC BODY CONTROL – Suspension with “Eyes”
The 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 introduces another world-first technology: ROAD SURFACE SCAN in conjunction with MAGIC BODY CONTROL. This innovative system allows the car to “see” bumps and road imperfections ahead. Using a stereo camera, ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects uneven surfaces, and MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously adjusts the suspension to proactively respond to the changing road conditions. This cutting-edge suspension system, available as an option, elevates ride comfort to new heights. The standard suspension setup for the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 includes the continuously adaptive Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the AIRMATIC full air suspension system, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride across various driving conditions.
Interior Architecture: Breadth, Calm, and Solidity
The interior design of the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 embodies the essence of a classic, superior, and cutting-edge luxury saloon. Characterized by a fluid, sensuously elegant style, the interior architecture emphasizes horizontal elements and lines to create a sense of visual breadth, calm, and solidity. The harmonious blend of high quality, elegance, clarity, and functionality defines the cabin experience. The interior of the Mercedes Benz S 2015 seamlessly integrates ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness to meet the highest standards of luxury and convenience.
The meticulous selection and coordination of materials and colors result in an exclusive interior that appears to be sculpted from a single piece. Generous use of wood trim, particularly on the dashboard and center console, enhances the cabin’s warmth and opulence. Metallized switch surfaces, finished with pearl-effect paint in three shades that complement the interior color schemes, further highlight the exceptional quality and attention to detail.
Rear passengers in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 are treated to a first-class experience, with seat design, door panels, and controls mirroring the high standards set in the front cabin. For enhanced personalization, rear seat packages offer features like a Business center console. This incorporates practical conveniences such as additional storage compartments, a folding table, and two-place seating in the rear, transforming the rear cabin into a mobile office or relaxation space.
Control and Display Concept: An Elegant Command Center
The 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 introduces a new information center featuring two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in an 8:3 format. These displays serve as the centerpiece of the vehicle’s command system. The left-hand display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information to the driver. The right-hand display offers intuitive control over infotainment and comfort functions. This dual-screen setup reflects the increasing integration of technology in vehicles, designed with ergonomics, user convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal in mind.
The design philosophy behind the control and display system was to create a cohesive and intuitive user interface, both in terms of functionality and visual appeal. Beyond the advanced displays, the cabin features metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls, adding to the tactile and visual luxury. The finely structured metal surfaces of each control exemplify the attention to detail and quality synonymous with Mercedes-Benz.
New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an expanded favorites function with twelve freely programmable memory slots. The primary control interface remains the rotary pushbutton, complemented by direct access keys on the center console for frequently used functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems.
Voice control is significantly enhanced with the Enhanced Voice Control System, allowing for “one-shot input” of complete addresses for navigation. Furthermore, telephone and audio systems can be voice-controlled, and a new feature enables text messages (SMS) or emails to be read aloud, enhancing connectivity and convenience while maintaining driver focus.
Climate Control: Advanced Features for Cabin Ambiance
The climate control system in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 has been comprehensively refined, focusing on performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration compared to the standard system. Rear cabin comfort is improved with automatic climate control featuring two additional zones. A completely new feature is the electric heating of the armrests and center consoles, providing an added layer of luxury and warmth.
A world-first innovation, the “active perfuming system,” is part of the AIR-BALANCE package in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015. This system allows for manual activation and deactivation of perfume atomization, with adjustable intensity. It discretely fragrances the vehicle interior without permanently altering the cabin smell or depositing perfume molecules on fabrics or clothing. The fragrance is subtle, mild, and dissipates quickly, enhancing the sensory experience within the vehicle.
Seating: Mobile Office and Wellness Oasis
Mercedes-Benz has elevated seating comfort in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 to unprecedented levels with world-first features such as the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort was a particular focus for developers, offering four different rear seat variants, including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees. This allows rear occupants to work productively or relax in exceptional comfort.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a groundbreaking innovation, utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function. Offering six massage programs, two of which incorporate warming, this system provides a unique therapeutic experience. This function is also available for the rear seats, extending the wellness experience to all passengers.
Active seat ventilation is enhanced with the introduction of reversing fans. Initially, cooler ambient air is drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing the temperature of heated seats, significantly faster than previous active cooling systems. After four minutes, the fans automatically switch to blower mode to prevent drafts, optimizing comfort and efficiency.
Four seat variants are available for the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015, with redesigned adjustment kinematics in the luxury and reclining seat options. The backrest adjusts separately from the seat cushion, maintaining consistent legroom and seat reference points. Both seat cushion angle and horizontal position are independently adjustable, providing unparalleled customization.
The Executive Rear Seat Package maximizes rear passenger comfort, increasing the maximum backrest angle to 43.5 degrees, the largest in the luxury segment. The reclining seat includes a calf support adjustable for length and angle. Combined with a heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat in the front and an additional comfort cushion, this configuration achieves a reclined position setting new benchmarks for sleeping and resting comfort in an automobile.
Selecting the Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS, which includes a rear center console, extends the front console design into the rear cabin. This console features innovative thermo-cup holders using Peltier technology to cool or warm beverages. Similar to an aircraft seat, the center console is equipped with two tables that can be easily deployed or stowed with one hand, enhancing functionality for rear passengers.
Multimedia Features: A Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new generation of multimedia technology debuts in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015, characterized by intuitive operation and enhanced user engagement through advanced visualization and animations. A key innovation is the multi-user system, which allows independent access to media sources from any seat within the vehicle, enhancing personalized entertainment options.
The innovative Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz exclusive and a first in a sedan car, is standard across all audio systems. Woofers are integrated into the firewall, utilizing the approximately 40-liter space within the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber. This eliminates the need for conventional woofers in the doors, allowing mid-range speakers to be positioned higher for improved sound staging and creating additional storage space in the doors.
Two premium audio systems, developed in collaboration with high-end audio specialist Burmester, are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system. These systems transform the cabin into a mobile concert hall, delivering exceptional audio fidelity and an immersive listening experience.
The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass and a “Driveshow” function providing passenger information akin to that in an aircraft. Google Maps integration is available on both the head unit and in the rear. Traffic information is displayed using hatched lines, a visual enhancement over previous vehicle silhouette representations.
Body: High-Strength, Lightweight Design
The body of the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 is engineered for maximum crash safety, exceptional rigidity for superior handling, and minimized noise and vibration levels. This is achieved through a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, which significantly improves the lightweight index – torsional stiffness relative to weight and vehicle size – by 50 percent compared to its predecessor.
Building on hybrid lightweight construction principles established with the 220 model series in the 1990s, the 2015 S-Class further evolves into an aluminum hybrid bodyshell. The proportion of aluminum has increased to over 50 percent, maintaining virtually the same body weight as models from 20 years prior, despite significantly increased comfort and safety requirements and added features. Structural foams are strategically used in node areas for enhanced rigidity. The entire outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is made of aluminum. High-strength steel is extensively used in the safety passenger cell, ensuring robust occupant protection.
Intelligent Drive: Networked Senses for Enhanced Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy, guiding its Accident Research, is fully realized in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 through “Intelligent Drive.” This integrated approach aims to prevent accidents and mitigate their consequences. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems seamlessly enhance both comfort and safety. These systems rely on a shared sensor suite, including a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, providing comprehensive environmental awareness.
Professor Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, explains that these “intelligent assistance systems analyze complex situations and better recognize potential dangers… Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.”
A key element is “sensor fusion,” the networking of all sensor systems to ensure comprehensive protection for vehicle occupants and all other road users. Support functions range from driver assistance for increased comfort to visual, acoustic, and tactile warnings, and even corrective actions like autonomous braking to prevent or lessen accident severity.
Key new and enhanced assistance systems include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, enhancing driving ease and reducing driver fatigue.
- Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Utilizing the stereo camera, it detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, augmenting the driver’s braking force as needed to prevent collisions.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes, particularly by oncoming traffic, and can apply one-sided braking to prevent unintentional lane departure when lane markings are broken lines.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows for continuous high-beam usage without dazzling other drivers by selectively masking out portions of the high beam light cone.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Enhanced with a thermal imaging camera, it alerts the driver to potential dangers from pedestrians or animals in unlit areas by displaying a crisp night view image and highlighting hazards. A spotlight function can flash detected pedestrians to alert both the driver and the pedestrian.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior within the first 20 minutes of driving and can warn against inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range. It also provides feedback on driver fatigue state and driving time since the last break, with adjustable sensitivity and navigation integration to suggest nearby service areas upon issuing a warning.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention as Priority
Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, introduced a decade prior, is further advanced in the 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015. New PRE-SAFE® functions aim to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in city traffic, mitigate risks from rear-end collisions, and enhance seat belt protection.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Now capable of pedestrian detection, it initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph to avoid collisions.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Detects imminent rear-end collisions and, if a collision is unavoidable, firmly applies the vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash injuries from the impact and reduce the risk of secondary accidents. Reversible belt tensioners are deployed immediately before impact as part of the anticipatory occupant protection measures.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: In a frontal collision, this feature releases seat belts in a controlled manner, reducing the pressure on the occupant’s body and significantly lowering the risk and severity of injuries.
Setting Rear Seat Safety Standards: New Features
The 2015 Mercedes Benz S 2015 further enhances rear seat passenger safety with features like the illuminated seat belt buckle extender, the beltbag, and the cushionbag. The first two are part of the Rear Seat Package. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender uses an electric motor to extend and retract the buckle automatically, reducing belt slack around the pelvis and thorax for improved passenger restraint.
The beltbag, an inflatable seat-belt strap, reduces ribcage injury risk in frontal collisions for rear passengers by distributing impact forces over a larger area. The Executive Rear Seat Package and Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS include a cushionbag under the seat cushion upholstery as standard. When the seat is reclined, it prevents “submarining,” where the occupant slides beneath the seat belt in an accident, allowing for a comfortable reclining seat that maintains a high level of accident 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 HVAC air filtration
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL: Road surface scan via stereo camera, automatic and individual wheel damping adjustment for optimal comfort.
- ENERGIZING massage function: Hot-stone principle based seat massage system.
- Rear Seat Package: Rear seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear, 4-Zone Climate Control, Electrically adjustable right-rear footrest, increased front passenger seat forward movement.
- Warmth & Comfort Package: Heated steering wheel, heated front/rear armrests, heated & active ventilated rear seats, power rear seats, memory rear seats, rear heated seats.
- New generation Driver Assistance Package: Enhanced 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.
Model Positioning (Mercedes-Benz S550/S600):
- The pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
- Industry-leading, refined & luxurious interior.
- Trailblazing innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety with efficient drive concepts.
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 | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7- SPEED |
| 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 |
