The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has consistently been the benchmark for automotive excellence, and the 2015 model year iteration firmly cements this legacy. Built upon three core engineering pillars – “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury” – the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 pushes technological boundaries and redefines what it means to travel in ultimate comfort and style. This model isn’t just a step forward for Mercedes-Benz; it represents a significant leap for the entire automotive industry.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Daimler AG’s Chairman, encapsulated the ambition behind this vehicle perfectly: “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.” This bold statement underscores the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the 2015 Mercedes Benz S Class.
The Essence of Luxury: Interior and Design
The dedication to “The Essence of Luxury” is immediately apparent within the cabin of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015. Every element, from the meticulously stitched seats to the whisper-quiet air conditioning system, speaks to an unparalleled level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The controls are intuitive and elegantly designed, the infotainment system is cutting-edge, and the overall ambiance prioritizes passenger comfort and well-being above all else. This isn’t just a car interior; it’s a sanctuary of refined taste and technological sophistication.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of a 2015 Mercedes Benz S Class, showcasing premium leather seats, wood trim, and dual widescreen displays, emphasizing high-quality materials and sophisticated design.
The pursuit of excellence is tangible in every tactile surface and visual detail. Mercedes-Benz engineers have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure the highest perceived quality, setting new benchmarks for flagship models within the luxury automotive segment. This commitment extends beyond mere aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that elevates the driving and passenger experience to an art form.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety
The concept of “Intelligent Drive” represents a paradigm shift in automotive design, seamlessly merging comfort and safety into a unified, holistic experience. Building upon innovations like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 introduces a suite of groundbreaking systems designed to make driving both more relaxing and significantly safer. This is not simply about adding safety features; it’s about proactively anticipating and mitigating potential hazards, creating a driving experience that is both secure and serene.
A comprehensive array of new technologies empowers the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 to be more aware of its surroundings and more responsive to potential dangers than ever before. These advancements represent a significant stride towards autonomous driving, while simultaneously enhancing the immediate driving experience for the person behind the wheel.
Design Philosophy: Sensual Clarity and Modern Status
The exterior design of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 embodies what Gorden Wagener, design chief, describes as “sensual clarity.” It’s a design language that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with the timeless elegance that has defined Mercedes-Benz for decades. The car’s silhouette is both powerful and graceful, conveying a sense of effortless superiority and refined status.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a silver 2015 Mercedes Benz S Class, highlighting the larger, upright grille, LED headlights, and elegant, flowing lines of the sedan’s design, emphasizing modern luxury and sophisticated styling.
The larger, more upright radiator grille immediately commands attention, projecting an image of authority and presence. Classic sedan proportions are maintained with a long hood, a flowing roofline, and a gently sloping rear, creating a profile that is both prestigious and subtly sporty. The “Dropping Line,” a signature Mercedes-Benz design cue, adds dynamic structure to the side profile, even when the car is stationary. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces creates a visually captivating body that exudes both excitement and composure.
The rear design further emphasizes the car’s width and stability, with horizontal lines extending from the trunk lid to the bumper. The tail lights, completely integrated into the body and utilizing intricate LED technology, are a design highlight, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The rear windscreen, with its rounded upper edge, subtly hints at a coupé-like elegance, further enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015.
LED Technology: A World First in Automotive Lighting
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 marks a historic milestone in automotive lighting, becoming the first car in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, embracing a full LED system for both interior and exterior illumination. This pioneering move reinforces Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in lighting technology and sets a new standard for automotive lighting efficiency and design.
Alt text: Close-up of the advanced LED headlights of a 2015 Mercedes Benz S Class, showcasing the intricate design and bright illumination, emphasizing the vehicle’s cutting-edge lighting technology and enhanced visibility features.
Nearly 500 LEDs are strategically positioned throughout the vehicle, powering everything from the headlights and taillights to the ambient interior lighting. This comprehensive LED system not only provides superior illumination and energy efficiency but also enables innovative multi-level functionality. For example, the intensity of the brake lights automatically reduces at night or when stationary at traffic lights, minimizing glare for drivers behind. Advanced systems like Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS further enhance visibility and safety, leveraging the power of LED technology.
Suspension and Ride Comfort: MAGIC BODY CONTROL
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 takes ride comfort to unprecedented levels with the introduction of MAGIC BODY CONTROL, a groundbreaking suspension system. Utilizing a stereo camera to “see” the road ahead, ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects bumps and undulations in real-time. The MAGIC BODY CONTROL system then instantaneously adjusts the suspension to proactively counteract these road imperfections, delivering an exceptionally smooth and stable ride.
This innovative technology, available as an option, works in conjunction with the standard Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and the enhanced AIRMATIC air suspension to provide a ride quality that is truly unparalleled. The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 effectively glides over uneven surfaces, isolating passengers from road disturbances and creating a serene and luxurious travel experience.
Interior Ambiance: Visual Breadth and Calm Solidity
The interior design of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 is meticulously crafted to create an atmosphere of “visual breadth and calm solidity.” Horizontal lines and elements dominate the design, emphasizing spaciousness and tranquility. The use of high-quality materials, including generous amounts of wood trim and metallized switch surfaces, further elevates the sense of luxury and refinement.
Alt text: Rear passenger area of a 2015 Mercedes Benz S Class, featuring comfortable leather seats, ample legroom, and premium trim, highlighting the first-class experience and attention to rear passenger comfort.
Rear passengers are treated with the same level of attention as those in the front, with first-class seating, door panels, and controls. Optional rear seat packages, including a Business center console, offer further customization and enhance both comfort and practicality for rear occupants. The interior of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 is a testament to the art of creating a truly luxurious and passenger-centric environment.
Control and Display Concept: Elegant Command Center
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 features a revolutionary control and display concept centered around two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays. These displays seamlessly integrate to form a sophisticated and intuitive information hub. The left display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information, while the right display controls infotainment and comfort functions.
This dual-screen setup creates a modern and elegant command center, streamlining the interaction with the vehicle’s numerous systems. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add a tactile element of luxury and precision. The system also incorporates voice control with Enhanced Voice Control, allowing for natural language input for navigation, telephone, and audio functions.
Climate Control and AIR-BALANCE Package
Mercedes-Benz has meticulously refined the climate control system in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015, focusing on performance, air quality, precision, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces a suite of features designed to enhance the in-cabin atmosphere even further. This includes perfume atomization, ionization, and advanced filtration, ensuring the air within the cabin is not only comfortable but also clean and refreshing.
The “active perfuming system,” a world first, allows drivers to personalize the cabin ambiance with a subtle and refined fragrance. The system is designed to be non-intrusive, neither permanently altering the interior smell nor depositing perfume molecules on surfaces. Electric heating for armrests and center consoles is another novel feature, adding an extra layer of comfort for both front and rear passengers.
Seating Innovation: Mobile Office and Wellness Oasis
The seats in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 are more than just places to sit; they are meticulously engineered to be both a mobile office and a center of well-being. Featuring numerous world-first innovations, including the ENERGIZING massage function based on hot-stone principles and active seat ventilation with reversing fans, the seating comfort in the S-Class reaches a new pinnacle.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a true world first, utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions and an integrated warming function to deliver a unique and therapeutic massage experience. Six different massage programs are available, some incorporating the warming function, providing personalized relaxation for both front and rear passengers. Active seat ventilation with reversing fans further enhances comfort by quickly drawing cooler air onto the seat surface and then switching to blower mode for sustained ventilation. A range of rear seat variants, including an Executive seat with a significant backrest recline, cater to diverse passenger needs, ensuring optimal comfort for every journey in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015.
Multimedia and Audio: Mobile Concert Hall
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 debuts a completely new multimedia generation, characterized by intuitive operation, rich visuals, and advanced functionality. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat, ensuring personalized entertainment for all occupants.
The innovative Frontbass system, standard across all audio configurations, utilizes the vehicle’s structure as a resonance chamber, delivering powerful and immersive bass. For audiophiles, two premium Burmester sound systems are available: the Surround Sound system and the High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transforming the cabin into a mobile concert hall. The navigation system is also enhanced with interactive content presentation, including animated compass and “Driveshow” passenger information, adding a new dimension to in-car navigation and entertainment.
Body and Structure: Lightweight Design and Maximum Stability
The bodyshell of the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 is engineered for maximum crash safety, exceptional rigidity, and minimal noise and vibration. A third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell achieves these goals through an optimized material mix. The lightweight index, measuring torsional stiffness relative to weight and size, is improved by an impressive 50 percent compared to its predecessor.
The strategic use of aluminum, comprising over 50 percent of the body structure, allows for a remarkably lightweight yet incredibly strong chassis. High-strength steel is extensively used in the safety passenger cell, ensuring occupant protection in the event of a collision. This advanced body construction contributes to both the vehicle’s dynamic handling and its refined ride quality.
Intelligent Drive Systems: Networked for 360-degree Awareness
The “Intelligent Drive” philosophy is brought to life through a suite of advanced assistance systems in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015. These systems utilize a network of sensors, including a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, to create a 360-degree awareness of the vehicle’s surroundings. This “sensor fusion” approach enables proactive safety features and enhances both comfort and driver assistance.
Systems like DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist work in concert to assist the driver in various driving situations. Night View Assist PLUS, further enhanced with a thermal imaging camera, improves visibility in low-light conditions and can even alert the driver to pedestrians or animals in unlit areas. ATTENTION ASSIST monitors driver fatigue and provides timely warnings to prevent drowsy driving.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention and Mitigation
Building upon the pioneering PRE-SAFE® system, the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 introduces extended PRE-SAFE® functions that further enhance occupant protection. These advancements focus on both preventing accidents and mitigating their consequences.
PRE-SAFE® Brake now includes pedestrian detection and can initiate autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph to avoid collisions. PRE-SAFE® PLUS anticipates rear-end collisions and can apply the vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash injuries and secondary accidents. PRE-SAFE® Impulse utilizes controlled seat belt release to reduce pressure on the body during frontal impacts, further reducing the risk of injury.
Rear Seat Safety Innovations
Mercedes-Benz has extended its commitment to safety to rear seat passengers in the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 with innovations like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender automatically extends and retracts, making buckling easier and ensuring optimal belt tension. The beltbag, an inflatable seat-belt strap, reduces ribcage strain in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard with Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining in reclined seats during accidents. These features underscore Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to comprehensive safety for all occupants.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Portfolio and Pricing
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 lineup offers a range of models to suit diverse preferences and performance requirements:
| Model | MSRP | Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | Engine | Performance | 0-60 mph | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S550 | $94,400 | 17/26/20 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque | 4.8 sec | RWD |
| S550 4MATIC | $97,400 | 16/26/19 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque | 4.8 sec | AWD |
| S600 | $166,900 | 12/21/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 523 hp / 612 lb.-ft. torque | 4.5 sec | RWD |
| S63 AMG 4MATIC | $141,450 | 15/23/18 | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo AMG | 577 hp / 664 lb.-ft. torque | 3.9 sec | AWD |
| S65 AMG | $222,000 | 13/20/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo AMG | 621 hp / 738 lb.-ft. torque | 4.2 sec | RWD |
| Mercedes-Maybach S600 | ~$200,000 | TBD | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 523 hp / 612 lb.-ft. torque | 5.0 sec | RWD |
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
The S550 comes generously equipped with standard features including COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, MAGIC VISION CONTROL, Burmester Surround Sound System, LED Ambient Lighting, Touchpad for COMAND System, and the Air Balance Package. Optional features include MAGIC BODY CONTROL, ENERGIZING massage function, Rear Seat Package, Warmth & Comfort Package, new generation Driver Assistance Package, and Active Parking Assist, allowing for extensive personalization and customization.
Model Positioning and Competition:
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 represents the pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand, embodying industry-leading luxury, refinement, and innovation. Its main competitors include the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS.
Safety Feature Highlights:
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 boasts an extensive suite of safety features, including 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, PRE-SAFE® Brake with Pedestrian Recognition, and more, solidifying its position as a leader in automotive safety.
Conclusion:
The Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 is more than just a luxury car; it is a technological tour de force and a statement of automotive excellence. It redefines standards in luxury, safety, and innovation, solidifying its claim as “the best automobile in the world.” For those seeking the ultimate in driving experience and passenger comfort, the Mercedes Benz S Class 2015 remains the undisputed benchmark.
