For discerning luxury car enthusiasts, the quest for the perfect vehicle often presents a unique dilemma. Seeking something more exclusive than a standard luxury sedan like the Lexus LS, yet not quite venturing into the ultra-high-end realm of Bentley or Rolls-Royce, the options narrow considerably. In this niche, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has traditionally reigned supreme. However, the previous generation S-Class, while undeniably luxurious, started to fall behind competitors in terms of technology and overall opulence. This was a significant concern, especially considering the hefty price tag that could range from just under $100,000 to nearly $250,000. Fortunately, the redesigned S-Class, much like the revitalized C-Class, marks a triumphant return for Mercedes-Benz, reaffirming its position as a leader in the luxury automotive sector. This review delves into the 2015 Benz S550, exploring why it stands out as a compelling option for those seeking unparalleled luxury and performance.
Exterior Elegance: A Bold Yet Refined Design
Since 1972, the S-Class has been the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Available in various configurations, including long and short wheelbases, coupes, sedans, and limousines, the S-Class has consistently set the benchmark for full-size luxury vehicles. The previous generation, however, was criticized for its somewhat understated exterior, featuring a rather plain profile, a modest grille, and headlamps that appeared disproportionately small.
The 2015 S-Class marks a significant departure, embracing Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary design language, drawing inspiration from models like the CLS and CLA. It showcases a more assertive grille and sharply styled headlights, seamlessly integrated with the classic elegance of a three-pointed star hood ornament. As befitting a vehicle designed to transport dignitaries, royalty, and heads of state, the side profile maintains an upright and traditional stance, while the greenhouse subtly slopes rearward, providing rear occupants with an enhanced view.
At the rear, Mercedes-Benz artfully blends its corporate design identity with classic S-Class elements reminiscent of the 1991 models. This is evident in the tail lamps that maintain their position on the rear quarter panels, rather than extending onto the trunk lid. While this design choice contributes to the S-Class’s distinctive aesthetic, it does result in a slightly smaller trunk opening compared to some of its luxury sedan counterparts.
Despite the visual similarities to the W220 S-Class, the W222 generation represents a complete transformation. The most significant advancement lies in its all-new body construction, with nearly half composed of aluminum. Instead of adopting a fully aluminum structure like Jaguar and Audi, Mercedes-Benz opted for a more strategic approach, utilizing aluminum to optimize weight distribution and reduce overall mass. The result is a 2015 S550 that weighs approximately 4,600 pounds and boasts a weight balance closer to an ideal 50/50 distribution, achieving a notable improvement over the previous generation’s 52/48 split.
Interior Opulence: Where Technology Meets Traditional Craftsmanship
Mercedes-Benz is known for its evolutionary approach to interior design, and the 2015 S-Class exemplifies this philosophy. While not a radical departure from previous models, the interior exudes undeniable premium quality, effectively dispelling the “upscale Buick” impression that some attributed to the previous generation. The test vehicle featured an optional premium leather package, priced at nearly $6,000, which undoubtedly elevates the cabin ambiance. This package includes exquisite two-tone leather and contrasting piping throughout the interior, from the dashboard to the door panels. Even concealed areas of the door panels are meticulously finished in perfectly stitched leather. Laser-cut metal speaker grilles are strategically placed throughout the cabin, a design element also found in the more accessible C-Class models.
For those accustomed to European vehicle dimensions, the S550’s legroom might be perceived as excellent but not exceptionally generous. While undeniably large by European standards, the S-Class is only marginally longer than a Ford Taurus and slightly shorter than a Lincoln MKS. Consequently, the front legroom, at 41.4 inches, is actually slightly less than some large American sedans. Rear legroom is ample but comparable to other large sedans from GM, Ford, and Chrysler. The rear seats are undeniably comfortable, especially in models equipped with the reclining rear seat option. However, occupants taller than 6 feet 2 inches may find it challenging to fully stretch out on the footrest. For context, the standard S-Class offers rear accommodation comparable to the long-wheelbase versions of the Jaguar XJ, Audi A8, and BMW 7-Series.
For those requiring even more space, the Mercedes-Maybach S600, priced at a substantial $189,350, extends the S-Class by 8 inches, enhancing both legroom and headroom. However, the inclusion of features like a champagne refrigerator and opulent rear seats does compromise trunk space, reducing it to a modest 12.3 cubic feet.
Mercedes-Maybach: Elevating Luxury to New Heights
Maybach was initially conceived as Mercedes-Benz’s answer to the growing prominence of Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Unfortunately, Mercedes-Benz’s initial foray involved a previous-generation S-Class stretched to an enormous 244 inches, accompanied by an equally extravagant price tag nearing $400,000. Unsurprisingly, the Maybach 57 and 62 failed to achieve widespread sales success. In 2013, the Maybach brand was discontinued and a new strategy was implemented. Recognizing the inherent association of the previous Maybach with the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz decided to apply the Maybach designation to the longest S-Class variant, giving rise to the Mercedes-Maybach S600. With a more restrained 8-inch extension and a correspondingly more moderate price, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 is essentially a limousine version of the S-Class. Intriguingly, the Maybach is not the most expensive S-Class model; that distinction belongs to the S65 AMG, with a starting price of $220,000.
Infotainment and Gadgets: A Technological Tour de Force
In the realm of luxury automobiles, a comprehensive suite of advanced technology is indispensable. Upon entering the 2015 S-Class, the most striking feature is the dual 12.3-inch LCD screens that seamlessly span from the center console to the driver’s side. The right screen operates the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment system, while the left screen displays the instrument gauges and night vision visuals.
While the software interface maintains a familiar Mercedes-Benz aesthetic, it has undergone substantial updates for the W222 generation, featuring a faster processor and expanded functionality. The enhanced speed and fluidity of graphic transitions are immediately noticeable when comparing the S-Class to the E-Class models in the showroom. Mercedes-Benz has also refined the voice recognition system in this generation, improving the ease and reliability of voice commands for tasks such as selecting specific tracks from USB drives or iDevices. However, the online capabilities are not yet as fully developed as systems like BMW’s iDrive or Audi’s MMI. While Google Earth-driven satellite imagery is available, it is not integrated into the primary navigation display. Similarly, the streaming radio and Yelp location finder apps could benefit from better integration. Another minor drawback is the absence of dedicated track forward/backward buttons, making track changes slightly less convenient than in some competing vehicles.
LCD instrument clusters, while theoretically offering immense potential, often fall short of expectations. Currently, Cadillac is the only manufacturer that provides a degree of customization, allowing users to select from various gauge layouts, colors, and themes. The Mercedes-Benz display, like most others, offers two primary views: one with and one without the night vision camera display.
In terms of gadgets, the 2015 S-Class is replete with features. Optional features include a split-view screen (right side LCD only) that allows the passenger to watch movies while driving, and a rear-seat entertainment system that can display airline-style slideshows of location, elevation profiles, and destination weather. Both front and rear seats offer massage functions, rear seats recline, and power-operated shades are standard. Rear passengers even benefit from 3-position seat memory. Sound systems range from impressive standard setups to a high-end 24-speaker system delivering 1,940 watts of audio power.
The S-Class is equipped with an array of sensors and cameras, including radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, all-around cameras, a dedicated stereo camera system for forward 3D imaging, and an infrared night vision camera. These technologies provide the S-Class with a comprehensive view of its surroundings, enabling features such as adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alerts, pre-collision safety system activation, self-parking, pedestrian detection with automatic braking, and animal detection in night vision. The innovative Magic Body Control system utilizes the stereo camera to scan the road ahead and proactively adjust the suspension to mitigate road imperfections before they are encountered. While US regulations prevent the inclusion of the advanced multi-beam LED headlamps, the system that automatically infuses air freshener into the HVAC system is available in the American market.
Drivetrain Dynamics: Power and Efficiency Options
Unlike some competitors that position hybrid models as range-topping variants, Mercedes-Benz views the S550 plug-in hybrid as a mainstream option. At a comparable price point, buyers can choose between a 449-horsepower, 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine or a 436-horsepower hybrid system built around a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (the V6 alone produces 329 horsepower). The V8 model, with its 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with Mercedes-Benz’s latest 7-speed automatic transmission and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, propels the S550 from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.6 seconds.
For those seeking even greater performance, the S600’s twin-turbo V12 engine delivers 523 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque, although it is not available with all-wheel drive. The S63 AMG boasts a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, and thanks to standard all-wheel drive, achieves 0-60 mph acceleration in under 4 seconds. The top-of-the-line S65 AMG generates a staggering 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, exceeding even the Dodge Hellcat in torque. However, due to the absence of all-wheel drive, its 0-60 mph time is slightly longer than the S63 AMG. Intriguingly, all S-Class models feature a transmission with two reverse speeds, a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to engineering excellence, even in seemingly superfluous areas.
Driving Experience: A Symphony of Comfort and Performance
Initial skepticism surrounded the Magic Body Control system, and real-world testing revealed that its impact is somewhat nuanced. While it effectively dampens speed bumps to the point of near imperceptibility, its influence on rough highways or pothole-ridden streets is less pronounced. This is partly attributed to the system’s camera-based road detection and partly to the already highly compliant standard air suspension.
Despite weight reduction efforts, the 2015 S550 remains one of the heavier vehicles in its class. This contrasts sharply with the Jaguar XJ, which, at 3,854 lbs, is the lightest in the segment, even lighter than the aluminum Audi A8 by 511 pounds. Jaguar’s decision to eliminate the four-corner air suspension in the latest XJ model (retaining load leveling in the rear) contributes to its agility, making it the most athletic contender in this segment. Notably, the XJ is not only light for its class but also 147 pounds lighter than an E350. In contrast, the S550 embodies a more traditional large luxury sedan character, with its air suspension delivering a ride that is akin to floating on a cloud.
However, this cloud-like ride belies surprising performance capabilities. The S550 accelerates to 60 mph as quickly as a BMW M235i and matches a standard BMW 335i in skidpad testing, thanks to its substantial tires and all-wheel-drive grip. Reaching the quarter-mile mark in 12.8 seconds at 110 mph is achieved in near silence within the spacious cabin. The S550’s interior remains remarkably quiet under all driving conditions.
The steering, while somewhat isolated, is surprisingly precise. Body roll is present but well-controlled, maintaining composure and stability. The all-wheel-drive system and near 50/50 weight distribution contribute to the S550’s exceptional neutrality and confidence across various road surfaces. Such composed handling is expected in a compact sports coupe, but remarkably, the S550, a sedan weighing nearly two and a half tons, delivers similar agility.
Pricing and Market Positioning: The “Tweener” Advantage
As previously mentioned, the S-Class occupies a unique position in the luxury car market. The 2015 S550 starts at $94,400, approximately $20,000 higher than base models of the 2015 BMW 7-Series, Lexus LS 460, Jaguar XJ, and Audi A8. A moderately equipped S550 can easily reach a sticker price of $115,000, and the test vehicle, even without numerous options, was priced at $137,500. It’s crucial to note that these figures represent the starting point for the S550 range. The S63 AMG begins at $141,450, approaching the upper end of the Audi A8’s price range. Twelve-cylinder models start at $166,900, significantly exceeding even a fully loaded Audi A8 W12. The Maybach version is priced at $189,350, and the top-tier S65 AMG reaches $220,000. The Porsche Panamera is the only other vehicle with a comparable price spectrum. While the Panamera offers a slightly more upscale interior, its focus is different, prioritizing sportiness over the S-Class’s emphasis on comfort and spaciousness. Moreover, the Panamera’s more assertive styling may not appeal to all luxury buyers. For those seeking even more exclusivity, the S65 AMG’s price point aligns with the entry-level Bentley range.
The 2015 S-Class has revitalized the Mercedes-Benz brand, reinforcing its commitment to luxury and innovation. While not the most affordable option in the luxury segment, this is arguably a strength rather than a weakness for its target demographic. For buyers seeking “value luxury,” the Kia K900, priced around $60,000, presents an alternative.
The 2015 S550 4Matic embodies the ideal characteristics of a large luxury sedan. It is substantial and imposing yet avoids ostentation. It offers an exceptionally quiet and smooth ride, immense power, impressive handling for its size, and commands respect and admiration. While competitors may excel in certain areas, the S550 uniquely blends these attributes in a manner unmatched by any other sedan in its class, solidifying its position as a true masterpiece of automotive engineering and luxury.
Vehicle, insurance, and fuel were provided by Mercedes-Benz for this review.
Performance Metrics:
- 0-30 mph: 1.99 Seconds
- 0-60 mph: 4.6 Seconds
- 1/4 Mile: 12.8 Seconds @ 110 mph
- Fuel Economy: 18.2 MPG over 782 Miles
