Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with automotive luxury and groundbreaking technology, and the 2015 S-Class firmly cements this reputation. Built upon the three pillars of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury,” this generation of the S-Class, often referred to as the W222, pushes the boundaries of automotive engineering and design on multiple fronts. More than just a flagship for Mercedes-Benz, the 2015 Mercedes-benz S-class serves as a benchmark for the entire automotive industry.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, perfectly captured the ambition behind this vehicle: “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 commitment to absolute excellence permeates every aspect of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, from the meticulously crafted interior to the suite of cutting-edge technologies.
Design: A Modern Interpretation of Status and Sensual Clarity
The design philosophy of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and timeless elegance. It instantly communicates prestige and sophistication, hallmarks of the Mercedes-Benz lineage. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, articulates this vision: “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 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class design language draws a clear line from the brand’s heritage, evoking the classic elegance of 1930s Mercedes-Benz models while projecting a forward-thinking, progressive image. The design is described as “intelligence that speaks to the emotions,” seamlessly merging stylish sportiness and sensual forms with timeless clarity and effortless superiority. This synthesis culminates in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class solidifying its position as a true design icon.
Exterior Elegance and Presence
To assert its leading status, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a larger, more upright, and distinctly three-dimensional radiator grille. This commanding front end, coupled with the long hood, flowing, domed roofline, and gently sloping rear, establishes classic sedan proportions. The overall impression is one of prestige and spaciousness, while the powerful roofline hints at a sporty, coupe-like dynamism.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line flowing from front to rear, elegantly sculpts the side profile, imbuing the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class with a sense of motion even when stationary. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, conveying both excitement and serenity. Pronounced shoulders above the rear wheels further emphasize the car’s athletic stance.
The rear design of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class echoes the sensual forms of the side profile. The slightly sloping form not only contributes to the elegant aesthetic but also enhances aerodynamic efficiency. Horizontal lines extending from the trunk lid to the bumper accentuate the car’s width, while the rear windscreen seamlessly integrates into the C-pillars, a hallmark Mercedes-Benz design cue, lending a coupe-like fluidity to the upper glass area. The newly designed tail lights, fully integrated into the car body with meticulously crafted internal elements, represent the pinnacle of design detail, completing the sophisticated rear aesthetic of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Pioneering LED Technology: A World First
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class marks a historic milestone in automotive lighting, becoming the first vehicle globally to eliminate incandescent light bulbs entirely, embracing a full LED lighting system for both interior and exterior illumination. This pioneering move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in automotive innovation. The advanced LED system extends beyond mere illumination, offering multi-level functionality. For example, the intensity of the brake lights is automatically reduced at night or when stopped at traffic lights, minimizing glare for drivers behind – a testament to thoughtful engineering and consideration for other road users. Nearly 500 LEDs are employed throughout the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, illuminating the road ahead, the vehicle itself, the cabin, and the trunk.
Depending on the specific equipment level, the LED count includes:
- Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs per headlamp unit.
- Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs per tail light (plus 4 LEDs for the rear fog lamp).
- Interior (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs.
Further enhancing visibility, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class incorporates improved versions of Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the car achieves 360-degree all-round vision, significantly improving hazard detection capabilities.
Innovative Technology: “Intelligent Drive” and “MAGIC BODY CONTROL”
Mercedes-Benz’s “Intelligent Drive” philosophy reaches new heights in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, seamlessly merging comfort and safety into a holistic driving experience. A suite of groundbreaking systems elevates both driver and passenger well-being, setting new standards in automotive technology.
Suspension: The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes”
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class introduces the revolutionary MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension, a world-first technology that proactively adjusts to road surface conditions. Utilizing ROAD SURFACE SCAN, the system employs a stereo camera to detect bumps and undulations in the road ahead. Based on this real-time road analysis, MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously adjusts the suspension settings to optimally mitigate the impact of these road imperfections. This innovative system, available as an option, works in conjunction with the standard Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and the enhanced AIRMATIC full air suspension, delivering an unprecedented level of ride comfort.
Intelligent Drive Systems: A Network of Safety and Assistance
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasts a comprehensive suite of “Intelligent Drive” systems, all working in concert to enhance safety and driver assistance. These systems rely on sensor fusion, networking data from a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors to create a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Key features include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help the driver keep the vehicle centered within its lane, reducing driver workload, especially on long journeys.
- Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Utilizing the stereo camera, this system can detect crossing traffic and pedestrians, augmenting the driver’s braking force in critical situations.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: In instances of broken lane markings, this system can detect if an adjacent lane is occupied, particularly by oncoming traffic, and mitigate the risk of unintentional lane departure by applying selective braking.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Enables the permanent use of high-beam headlamps without dazzling other road users by intelligently masking out oncoming or preceding vehicles from the beam’s pattern.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Further enhanced with a thermal imaging camera, Night View Assist PLUS can detect pedestrians or animals in unlit areas ahead, displaying a crisp night vision image in the instrument cluster and highlighting potential hazards. A spotlight function can also flash detected pedestrians to alert both the driver and the pedestrian to the potential danger.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior and can detect signs of inattentiveness and drowsiness over an extended speed range. It provides warnings, assesses the driver’s fatigue level, and even suggests nearby rest areas via the COMAND navigation system.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Proactive Safety Measures
Building upon Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class introduces further enhancements to proactively mitigate accident consequences.
Key PRE-SAFE® functions include:
- PRE-SAFE® Brake with Pedestrian Detection: Extends the functionality of PRE-SAFE® Brake to detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous emergency braking at speeds up to 31 mph to avoid or mitigate collisions.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Detects imminent rear-end collisions. If a collision is unavoidable, the system can apply the vehicle’s brakes firmly to minimize whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt from the impact and potentially preventing secondary accidents. Immediately prior to impact, PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, such as reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: In a frontal collision, this system releases the occupants’ seat belts in a controlled manner to reduce peak loads on the chest area, thereby minimizing the risk and severity of injuries.
Essence of Luxury: Interior and Comfort Redefined
The interior of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class embodies the “Essence of Luxury,” showcasing meticulous craftsmanship, premium materials, and an unwavering focus on passenger well-being. The cabin is designed to be both a mobile office and a sanctuary of relaxation, offering unparalleled comfort and cutting-edge technology.
Interior: Visual Breadth and Calm Solidity
The interior architecture of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class conveys a sense of classic, sophisticated, and forward-thinking luxury saloon design. The expressive character of the interior is defined by fluid lines and sensuously elegant forms. Horizontal elements and lines create a sense of visual spaciousness and serene solidity. High-quality materials and elegant finishes are seamlessly integrated with clarity and functionality. The interior design of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class masterfully combines ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness to the highest possible standards.
The harmonious use of materials and colors creates an exclusive cabin environment that feels cohesively designed. Generous use of wood trim, particularly on the dashboard and center console, adds warmth and sophistication. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes, available in three shades to complement interior color schemes, further underscore the exceptional quality and attention to detail.
Rear passengers in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class are treated to a first-class experience, with seat design, door panel trim, and control layouts mirroring the high standards of the front cabin. Optional rear seat packages offer further individualization, including a Business center console that merges personal comfort with practical features like additional storage, folding tables, and two-place seating configurations.
Control and Display Concept: An Elegant Command Center
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a revolutionary control and display concept, centered around two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in an 8:3 format. These displays serve as the primary information hub for the vehicle. The left-hand display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing the driver with all essential driving information. The right-hand display manages infotainment and comfort functions. This integrated system reflects the increasing complexity of modern vehicles and the need for intuitive and user-friendly controls. Ergonomics, ease of use, safety, and aesthetic appeal were paramount in the development of this new operating logic.
The design philosophy behind the control and display elements was to create a cohesive and intuitive system, both visually and functionally. Beyond the advanced displays, metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add tactile and visual refinement. The fine structuring on the metal surfaces provides a premium feel and auditory feedback, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Mercedes-Benz.
New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an expanded favorites function with twelve freely programmable memory locations. The central control element remains the rotary pushbutton, complemented by direct access keys on the center console 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), and voice control extends to telephone and audio systems. A new feature is the ability to have text messages (SMS) or emails read aloud, further enhancing convenience and minimizing driver distraction.
Climate Control: A Personalized Atmosphere
The climate control system in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been comprehensively refined to optimize performance, air quality, precise temperature regulation, noise levels, and energy efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration compared to the standard system. Rear passengers benefit from automatic climate control with two additional zones for personalized thermal comfort. A completely new feature is electric heating for the armrests and center consoles, extending comfort to touch surfaces.
The “active perfuming system,” a world-first feature within the AIR-BALANCE package, allows for individualization of the cabin fragrance. ‘Active’ signifies that the perfuming system is manually activated and deactivated, with adjustable intensity. The fragrance is subtly introduced and dissipates quickly, without permanently altering the interior smell or depositing perfume molecules on fabrics or clothing.
Seats: Mobile Office and Center of Well-being
Mercedes-Benz elevates seating comfort in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to unprecedented levels, introducing world-first features like the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort received particular attention, with four distinct rear seat variants available, including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees, facilitating both work and relaxation in the rear cabin.
The ENERGIZING massage function, inspired by hot-stone therapy, is a groundbreaking innovation. Developed by Mercedes-Benz seat specialists, it utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function. Six massage programs are available, two of which incorporate the warming function. This feature is also available for the rear seats.
Active seat ventilation in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class employs, for the first time, reversing fans. When ventilation is activated, cooler ambient air is initially drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing the temperature of a heated seat. After four minutes, the fans automatically switch to blower mode to minimize drafts.
Four seat variants are offered for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Luxury and reclining seat variants feature redesigned adjustment kinematics, where the backrest is adjusted independently of the seat cushion, maintaining consistent legroom and seat reference points. The cushion angle and horizontal position can also be adjusted separately.
The Executive Rear Seat Package (reclining seat) increases the maximum backrest angle to 43.5 degrees, the largest in the luxury segment. It includes 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 configuration creates a reclined position that sets a new benchmark for sleeping and resting comfort in an automobile.
The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS, featuring a rear center console, extends the front console visually into the rear cabin. It incorporates innovative thermo-cup holders utilizing Peltier technology to either cool or warm beverages. Similar to aircraft seating, the center console is equipped with two tables that can be easily folded out or stowed away with one hand.
Multimedia Features: A Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new generation of multimedia systems debuts in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, offering intuitive operation and visually rich interfaces with animations. A multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat, enhancing the personalized entertainment experience.
The innovative Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz exclusive and a sedan first, 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 door-mounted woofers, allowing for mid-range speakers to be positioned higher in the doors, improving sound staging and creating additional storage space.
Two premium audio systems, developed in collaboration with high-end audio specialists Burmester, are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transforming the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class into a mobile concert hall.
The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, a “Driveshow” passenger information display reminiscent of aircraft systems, and Google Maps integration on both the head unit and rear screens. Traffic information is displayed using hatched lines for improved clarity.
Body: Robustness and Lightweight Engineering
The bodyshell of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was engineered for exceptional crash safety, remarkable rigidity for superior handling, and minimized noise and vibration levels. This was achieved through a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, improving the lightweight index – torsional stiffness relative to weight and vehicle size – by 50 percent compared to its predecessor.
Continuing the hybrid lightweight construction approach pioneered with the 220 model series in the 1990s, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class further increases the use of aluminum, now exceeding 50% of the body structure. This has allowed Mercedes-Benz to maintain, or even slightly reduce, body weight over two decades, despite significantly more stringent comfort and safety requirements and added features. Structural foams are strategically employed in node areas for enhanced rigidity. The entire outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is crafted from aluminum. This extensive use of aluminum is made possible by utilizing a comprehensive range of semi-finished products (casting, extrusion, sheet metal). The safety passenger cell is constructed using a high proportion of high-strength steel.
Setting the Standard for Rear Seat Safety
Mercedes-Benz has further enhanced rear seat passenger safety in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class with innovations like the seat belt buckle extender, the beltbag, and the cushionbag. The seat belt buckle extender and beltbag are included in the “Rear Seat Package.” The illuminated seat belt buckle extender uses an electric motor to automatically extend and retract the belt buckle, reducing belt slack and ensuring a more secure fit in both lateral and longitudinal directions.
The beltbag, an inflatable seat-belt strap, reduces chest strain in a frontal collision, minimizing injury risk for rear passengers. The Executive Rear Seat Package and Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS feature a cushionbag under the seat cushion upholstery as standard. When the seat is reclined, it prevents submarining – the occupant sliding beneath the seat belt – in an accident. This allows for a comfortable reclining seat design without compromising accident safety.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing:
| Model | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 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 Maybach S600 | ~$200,000 |
Standard Equipment Highlights (S550):
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- LED Ambient Lighting (7 colors, 5 dimming levels, 4 zones)
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package (Fragrance, ionization, filtration)
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL
- ENERGIZING massage function
- Rear Seat Package (Rear seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear, 4-Zone Climate Control, electrically adjustable right-rear footrest)
- Warmth & Comfort Package (Heated steering wheel, armrests, active ventilated rear seats, power/memory rear seats)
- New generation Driver Assistance Package (Active Lane Keeping Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS®, BAS PLUS®, PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition)
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning (Mercedes-Benz S550/S600):
- The pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
- Industry-leading, refined, and luxurious interior.
- Trailblazing innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety.
- Efficient drive concepts and fuel economy for the class.
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: Model Comparison
| Feature | S550 | S550 4MATIC | S600 | Mercedes-Maybach S600 | S63 AMG 4MATIC | S65 AMG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $94,400 | $97,400 | $166,900 | ~$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 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-turbo |
| 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 hp @ 664 lb.-ft. torque | 621 hp @ 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 | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-SPEED |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 206.5/83.86/58.7 in | 206.5/83.86/58.7 in | 206.5/83.86/58.7 in | TBA | 206.5/83.86/58.7 in | TBA |
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership Continues
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to automotive excellence. It is a vehicle that not only embodies luxury and comfort but also pioneers groundbreaking technologies that enhance safety and driving pleasure. From its elegant and sophisticated design to its meticulously crafted interior and its suite of intelligent systems, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class redefines what a flagship sedan can be, solidifying its position as “the best automobile in the world” and continuing the S-Class legacy of automotive leadership. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive engineering, luxury, and innovation, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class remains an unparalleled choice.
