For decades, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has reigned supreme as the ultimate symbol of success and luxury. Revered by professionals and discerning drivers alike, the S-Class established itself as the benchmark for prestige, quality, and refined taste. The models produced between 2000 and 2006 were particularly successful, setting a high bar for its successor.
In 2007, Mercedes-Benz undertook the ambitious task of reinventing its flagship sedan with the all-new 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550. This redesign was a delicate balancing act, aiming to solidify the S-Class’s position as the leader in the premium luxury segment while honoring its iconic style and character. The result was a meticulously crafted vehicle that boasted updated exterior aesthetics, enhanced power, improved handling, a more luxurious interior, and a suite of cutting-edge technologies focused on both luxury and safety.
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 showcases a visually sleeker and more assertive design compared to its predecessor, most notably with its pronounced wheel arches. Subtle but significant increases in dimensions contribute to a more commanding presence: width is increased by 0.6 inches, height by 1.1 inches, wheelbase is stretched by 3.2 inches, and overall length extends by 1.7 inches. For passengers, this translates directly to a more spacious rear cabin, enhancing the already renowned S-Class comfort. Inside the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550, significant changes include a redesigned control layout, premium materials throughout the cabin, more supportive front seats, and a more intuitive COMAND system, all contributing to a heightened sense of luxury and user-friendliness.
Driving enthusiasts will immediately appreciate the upgraded powertrain in the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550. It features a potent 5.5-liter, four-valve-per-cylinder V8 engine that delivers an impressive 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. This represents a substantial power increase over the previous 5.0-liter V8, with an additional 82 horsepower and 52 lb-ft of torque readily available. Typically, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 routes power to the rear wheels via a standard seven-speed automatic transmission. For those in colder climates or seeking enhanced traction, the S550 4Matic model offers an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. For drivers craving even more power, the twin-turbo V12 engines in the S600 and the high-performance 6.0-liter V12 in the S65 AMG remained available options for 2007. Later in the model year, the S63 AMG, equipped with a formidable 518-horsepower 6.2-liter V8, joined the lineup as the successor to the S55. Beyond engine choices, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 also delivers noticeable improvements in steering and handling compared to its predecessor, offering a more engaging driving experience.
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 and its S-Class siblings, including the S600, S63, and S65 AMG, are replete with new and enhanced features. A standout innovation is the “Distronic Plus” adaptive cruise control. This system can autonomously slow the vehicle down to a near stop and resume speed, significantly easing long-distance freeway driving. Other notable features available in the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class include Night View Assist, an infrared night-vision system enhancing visibility in low-light conditions, a rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines for easier maneuvering, a premium 14-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system for audiophile-quality sound, and a panoramic sunroof that bathes the cabin in natural light.
Assessed by any metric – performance, luxury, safety, or technological innovation – the redesigned Mercedes-Benz flagship sets a new benchmark in the luxury sedan segment. While the BMW 7 Series might offer a slightly more engaging driving experience for purists, and the Audi A8 rivals the S-Class in cabin ambiance, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 presents a compelling and well-rounded proposition for luxury car buyers. Despite its premium price point, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class successfully balances progress with tradition, reaffirming its position as the standard-bearer in the world of luxury sedans.
