The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 stands as a paragon of automotive engineering, embodying the zenith of luxury, technology, and safety. As the flagship sedan of Mercedes-Benz, the S-Class has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in a vehicle, and the 2015 S550 model is no exception. With its core engineering principles centered around “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury,” this iteration of the S-Class not only meets but exceeds the expectations of discerning drivers worldwide, solidifying its reputation as “the best automobile in the world.”
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, aptly summarized the S-Class ethos: “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 S550, from the meticulously crafted interior to the suite of groundbreaking technological advancements.
The Essence of Unrivaled Luxury in the S550
The pursuit of “The Essence of Luxury” is palpable within the cabin of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550. Every detail, from the supple leather seats to the whisper-quiet air conditioning system, has been engineered to provide an unparalleled sensory experience. Controls are intuitively placed and beautifully crafted, while the infotainment system is both advanced and user-friendly. The emphasis is on creating an environment of serene comfort and sophisticated elegance, setting a new benchmark for automotive interiors.
This dedication to luxury extends beyond mere aesthetics. The 2015 S550 prioritizes passenger well-being through innovative comfort and safety features. Building upon Mercedes-Benz’s legacy of safety innovation, pioneered a decade prior with PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, the S-Class introduces “Intelligent Drive.” This philosophy seamlessly integrates comfort and safety systems, creating a driving experience that is not only luxurious but also exceptionally secure. A suite of novel systems ensures the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 is not just comfortable and safe, but intelligently so.
Design Philosophy: A Modern Statement of Status
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are instantly recognizable globally, and the S-Class embodies the classic Mercedes-Benz DNA. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, describes the design language: “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 design draws a line from the sophisticated, progressive design idiom to the classic elegance of our 1930s cars – intelligence that speaks to the emotions. Stylish sportiness and sensual forms in synthesis with timeless clarity and effortless superiority make the S-Class a true design icon.” The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 design is a testament to this philosophy.
The 2015 S550 exudes effortless superiority through its design. The radiator grille is more prominent, upright, and three-dimensional, asserting its leadership. Classic sedan proportions are evident in the long hood, flowing roofline, and gently sloping rear. The size and form are carefully sculpted to project prestige, while the roofline hints at a sporty, coupé-like dynamism.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line along the flank, adds elegance and dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces creates a powerful, elongated silhouette that balances excitement and composure. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel further emphasizes the car’s athletic stance.
The rear design of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 seamlessly integrates with the side profile. The slightly slanted rear form is not only elegant but also aerodynamically efficient. Horizontal lines accentuate width, while the rear windscreen, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz design, flows into the C-pillars, adding a coupé-like touch. The tail lights, fully integrated into the body, showcase meticulous craftsmanship and complete the design with exquisite detail.
LED Technology: A World First in Automotive Lighting
One hundred years after electric lighting in automobiles, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 achieves a groundbreaking milestone: it is the first car in the world without a single light bulb. Mercedes-Benz continues its pioneering role in lighting technology by fully embracing LED technology for both interior and exterior illumination. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, vehicle, interior, and trunk, depending on the equipment level.
This comprehensive LED system includes:
- Up to 56 LEDs per headlamp.
- Up to 35 LEDs per tail light (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp).
- Approximately 300 LEDs for the interior, including ambient lighting.
The lighting system features multi-level functionality, another world first. For example, the intensity of brake lights is reduced at night or when stopped at traffic lights to minimize glare for drivers behind. Enhanced visibility is provided by improved Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS systems. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the 2015 S550 provides 360-degree vision, enhancing hazard detection.
Suspension: MAGIC BODY CONTROL – Eyes on the Road Ahead
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 introduces another world-first innovation in suspension technology: ROAD SURFACE SCAN. Using a stereo camera, the system detects road bumps ahead. MAGIC BODY CONTROL then instantaneously adjusts the suspension to proactively manage uneven surfaces. This optional system, along with standard Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and enhanced AIRMATIC air suspension, delivers an unparalleled ride comfort.
Interior Design: Breadth, Calm, and Solidity
The interior of the 2015 S-Class S550 embodies a classic, superior, and cutting-edge saloon philosophy. Its design is characterized by fluidity and sensuous elegance. Horizontal lines create a sense of spaciousness and calm solidity. High-quality materials and elegant design harmonize with clarity and functionality, creating an interior that excels in ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness.
The seamless integration of materials and colors results in an exclusive, cohesive interior. Extensive use of wood trim, particularly in the dashboard and center console, adds warmth and sophistication. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three color shades further emphasize the exceptional quality.
Rear passengers in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 are treated to a first-class experience. The design and exclusivity of the rear seats, door panels, and controls mirror the high standards of the front cabin. Optional rear seat packages offer further individualization, including a Business center console with added storage, a folding table, and two-place seating.
Control and Display: An Elegant Command Center
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 features a state-of-the-art information center with two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in 8:3 format. The left display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information. The right display allows intuitive control of infotainment and comfort functions. The operating logic is designed for ergonomics, convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Controls and displays are grouped for logical coherence. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls are visual highlights. The fine structuring of metal surfaces provides tactile feedback and exemplifies Mercedes-Benz’s attention to detail. New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and a favorites function with twelve memory places. The rotary pushbutton remains the primary control, supplemented by direct access keys for essential functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems. Enhanced Voice Control allows for one-shot address input and voice control of phone and audio systems, with a new text message and email readout feature.
Climate Control: Personalized Atmosphere
The climate control system in the 2015 S550 is significantly enhanced for performance, air quality, precision, quiet operation, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and improved filtration. Rear automatic climate control gains two additional zones for enhanced thermal comfort. A novel feature is electric heating for armrests and center consoles.
The “active perfuming system,” a world first, is part of the AIR-BALANCE package. This system allows manual activation and intensity adjustment of fragrance atomization, personalizing the cabin scent without permanently altering the interior smell or depositing perfume molecules. The fragrance is subtle, pleasant, and dissipates quickly.
Seats: Mobile Office and Wellness Oasis
Mercedes-Benz elevates seating comfort in the 2015 S-Class S550 with world-first features like the ENERGIZING massage function based on hot-stone principles and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort is a particular focus, with four rear seat variants, including an Executive seat with a backrest adjustable up to 43.5 degrees.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a world first, uses 14 individually actuated air cushions in the backrest and integrated warming. Six massage programs are available, two with warming. This function is also available for rear seats. Active seat ventilation utilizes reversing fans, initially drawing in cooler ambient air to rapidly reduce seat surface temperature before switching to blower mode to minimize drafts.
Four seat variants are offered for the S-Class. Luxury and reclining seat variants feature adjusted kinematics, separating backrest adjustment from legroom and seat reference point. The Executive Rear Seat Package offers a maximum backrest angle of 43.5 degrees, the largest in the luxury segment, and includes a calf support and heel rest for exceptional reclining comfort. The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS, with a rear center console, extends the front console to the rear and includes thermo-cup holders and folding tables, similar to those found in aircraft seats.
Multimedia: A Mobile Concert Hall
A new generation of multimedia debuts in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550, featuring intuitive operation, visualization, and animations. A multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat. The Frontbass system, unique to Mercedes-Benz sedans, places woofers in the firewall, utilizing the cross-member and side member as resonance chambers. This eliminates door-mounted woofers, improving sound and creating door storage space. Mid-range speakers are relocated upwards.
High-quality audio systems developed with Burmester are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system. The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, “Driveshow” passenger information, and Google Maps display on both front and rear screens. Traffic information is displayed with hatched lines for clarity.
Body: Stability and Lightweight Design
The bodyshell of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 prioritizes crash safety, rigidity for handling, and minimal noise and vibration. It is constructed using a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell. The lightweight index, torsional stiffness relative to weight and size, is improved by 50 percent compared to its predecessor.
Continuing the hybrid lightweight construction initiated with the 220 model series in the 1990s, the aluminum content now exceeds 50 percent. This allows for maintaining or slightly reducing body weight despite increased comfort, safety requirements, and added features over the past 20 years. Structural foams are strategically used in node areas. The entire outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is aluminum. High-strength steel is extensively used in the safety passenger cell.
Intelligent Drive: Networked Senses for Enhanced Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy drives the “Intelligent Drive” system in the 2015 S-Class S550. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems work together, relying on a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors. Professor Thomas Weber, then Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, explained, “Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.” Sensor fusion, the networking of all systems, is key to comprehensive protection for all road users.
Support functions range from driver assistance for comfort to visual, acoustic, and tactile warnings, and even corrective actions like autonomous braking. Key assistance systems include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to keep the vehicle centered in the lane.
- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, enhancing braking power.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes and oncoming traffic, applying brakes to prevent unintentional lane departure.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows permanent high beams without dazzling other drivers.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Improved with a thermal imaging camera, detects pedestrians or animals in unlit areas, highlighting dangers and flashing a spotlight.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver fatigue, warns of drowsiness, and suggests nearby service areas.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention First
Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, introduced a decade prior, is further refined in the 2015 S-Class S550. New PRE-SAFE® functions aim to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in city traffic, mitigate rear-end collision risks, and enhance seat belt protection.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking up to 31 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions, applies vehicle brakes to minimize whiplash and secondary accident risks, and deploys reversible belt tensioners before impact.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt release in frontal collisions reduces body pressure and injury severity.
Rear Seat Safety Standards
Mercedes-Benz enhances rear seat passenger safety with features like the illuminated seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag, included in the “Rear Seat Package.” The seat belt buckle extender uses an electric motor to automatically extend and retract the buckle, reducing belt slack for improved occupant restraint. The beltbag, an inflatable seat-belt strap, reduces ribcage strain in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard with Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining under the seat belt in reclined seats during accidents.
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 Mercedes-Maybach S600 | ~$200,000 |
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 zones
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package (Fragrance, ionization, filtration)
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL
- ENERGIZING massage function
- Rear Seat Package (various comfort and safety features)
- Warmth & Comfort Package (heated elements)
- New generation Driver Assistance Package
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning (Mercedes-Benz S550/S600):
- The pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
- Industry-leading luxury interior.
- Trailblazing innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety.
- Efficient drive concepts and fuel economy.
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
- 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 Model Comparison
| Feature | 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 | 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 inches | 206.5/83.86/58.7 inches | 206.5/83.86/58.7 inches | TBA | 206.5/83.86/58.7 inches | TBA |
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 remains a definitive statement in the luxury automotive sector. It is a vehicle that seamlessly blends groundbreaking technology, unparalleled comfort, and timeless design, continuing the S-Class legacy of being “the best or nothing.” For those seeking the ultimate in driving experience, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 delivers on every front.
