Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with automotive excellence, and the S-Class has consistently stood as the pinnacle of their achievements. With each generation, the S-Class pushes the boundaries of engineering and luxury, setting new benchmarks for the entire industry. The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is no exception, embodying the core principles of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury.” It’s not merely a car; it’s a statement, representing the brand’s unwavering commitment to “the best or nothing.” This pursuit of automotive perfection is immediately evident in every facet of the 2015 S 550, from its meticulously crafted interior to its groundbreaking technological advancements.
Design: A Symphony of Modern Elegance and Sensual Form
The design of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is a masterclass in modern luxury. It instantly communicates prestige and sophistication, while subtly hinting at the powerful capabilities beneath the surface. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at the time of its release, described the S-Class design as “a modern embodiment of sensual clarity,” drawing a lineage from the elegance of 1930s Mercedes-Benz vehicles to a progressive, contemporary aesthetic.
Alt text: Side profile of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550 showcasing its long hood, flowing roofline, and elegant proportions, emphasizing its design as a modern luxury sedan.
The larger, more upright radiator grille immediately commands attention, asserting the S 550’s position as a leader. Its three-dimensional design adds depth and presence, while the iconic Mercedes-Benz star takes center stage. The long hood and gracefully sloping roofline create classic sedan proportions, conveying both spaciousness and a hint of sporty coupe flair.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line flowing from front to rear, elegantly sculpts the side profile, injecting dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, exuding both excitement and serenity. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheels further accentuates the vehicle’s athletic stance.
The rear design of the 2015 S 550 continues this theme of sophisticated elegance. Horizontal lines extending from the trunk lid to the bumper emphasize the car’s width, while the rear windscreen seamlessly integrates into the C-pillars, lending a coupe-like grace. The distinctive tail lights, completely encased within the body, are a testament to meticulous design and attention to detail.
LED Technology: Illuminating the Future
The 2015 S 550 marked a significant milestone in automotive lighting, becoming the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, embracing a full LED system for both interior and exterior illumination. This pioneering move by Mercedes-Benz underscores their leadership in automotive technology.
Alt text: Close-up of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550 LED headlights, highlighting the intricate design and advanced lighting technology that provides superior visibility and energy efficiency.
Nearly 500 LEDs work in harmony to light the road ahead, the vehicle itself, the cabin, and the trunk. The headlamps alone incorporate up to 56 LEDs each, while the tail lights utilize up to 35 LEDs per unit (plus additional LEDs for the rear fog lamp). The interior ambient lighting system employs approximately 300 LEDs, creating a customizable and luxurious atmosphere within the cabin.
Beyond aesthetics, the LED technology in the 2015 S 550 enhances safety and visibility. Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS, further refined for this model year, leverage the power of LEDs to provide exceptional illumination and hazard detection. The intensity of the brake lights intelligently adjusts at night or during traffic stops, demonstrating consideration for other drivers.
Suspension: The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes”
The 2015 S 550 offered an optional, groundbreaking suspension system known as MAGIC BODY CONTROL, truly setting it apart in terms of ride comfort. This innovative system utilizes a stereo camera to “see” the road ahead, detecting bumps and imperfections before the vehicle encounters them.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating the MAGIC BODY CONTROL system in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550, showing the stereo camera scanning the road ahead and the suspension proactively adjusting for a smoother ride.
When ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects unevenness, MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously adjusts the suspension settings to preemptively counteract the bumps, resulting in an incredibly smooth and composed ride. This proactive approach to suspension technology was unprecedented and solidified the S 550’s reputation for unparalleled comfort.
Standard on the 2015 S 550 is the continuously adaptive damping system ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the AIRMATIC full air suspension system. These systems work together to provide a refined and comfortable ride, even without the MAGIC BODY CONTROL, adapting to varying road conditions and driving styles.
Interior: A Sanctuary of Calm and Sophistication
Stepping into the interior of the 2015 S 550 is akin to entering a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility. The design philosophy emphasizes “visual breadth and calm solidity,” creating a space that is both spacious and reassuringly substantial. Horizontal lines and elements define the architecture, contributing to a sense of expansiveness and serenity.
Alt text: Interior view of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550, showcasing the luxurious wood trim, leather upholstery, dual 12.3-inch displays, and overall design emphasizing spaciousness and high-quality materials.
The materials used throughout the cabin are of the highest quality, meticulously chosen and seamlessly integrated. Generous amounts of wood trim adorn the dashboard and center console, adding warmth and natural elegance. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes enhance the tactile experience and visual appeal of the controls.
Rear passengers in the 2015 S 550 are treated to a first-class experience, with seat design, door panels, and controls mirroring the high standards of the front cabin. Optional rear seat packages further elevate the experience, offering features like a Business center console with added storage, folding tables, and enhanced seating configurations.
Control and Display Concept: A Digital Command Center
The 2015 S 550 features a revolutionary control and display concept, centered around two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays. These screens form a seamless information center, replacing traditional analog gauges and providing a modern, intuitive interface for vehicle functions.
The left-hand display functions as the instrument cluster, presenting vital driving information to the driver. The right-hand display serves as the command center for infotainment and comfort features, controlled via the COMAND system.
The operating logic was further developed for the 2015 S 550 to manage the increasing complexity of vehicle functions. Ergonomics, user-friendliness, and safety were paramount considerations, alongside aesthetic appeal. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls provide tactile feedback and visual refinement.
New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and a favorites function with twelve customizable memory slots. The central rotary pushbutton, along with direct access keys and a toolbar for driving assistance systems, provides intuitive control over vehicle functions. Enhanced Voice Control allows for natural language input, including complete address entry in one command.
Climate Control: Personalized Comfort and Air Quality
The climate control system in the 2015 S 550 goes beyond basic temperature regulation, offering a suite of features designed to create a personalized and healthy cabin environment. Performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise level, and efficiency were key development goals.
The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration. The “active perfuming system,” a world first, allows for manual activation and intensity adjustment of fragrances, subtly scenting the interior without permanently altering the cabin’s smell or depositing fragrance molecules on fabrics.
Automatic climate control in the rear includes two additional zones for enhanced thermal comfort. A completely new feature for the 2015 S 550 is electric heating for the armrests and center consoles, further elevating passenger comfort in colder climates.
Seats: Mobile Office and Oasis of Well-being
The seats in the 2015 S 550 are more than just places to sit; they are meticulously engineered to provide exceptional comfort, support, and even therapeutic benefits. Mercedes-Benz introduced numerous world-first seating innovations in the S-Class, including the ENERGIZING massage function and active seat ventilation with reversing fans.
Alt text: Close-up of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550 seat controls and stitching, highlighting the ENERGIZING massage function based on hot-stone principles and the luxurious seat design.
The ENERGIZING massage function, based on the hot-stone principle, is a unique feature. Fourteen independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function, provide a choice of six massage programs, some incorporating heat. This feature is available for both front and rear seats, transforming the cabin into a mobile spa.
Active seat ventilation utilizes reversing fans, drawing cooler ambient air onto the seat surface initially for rapid cooling, then switching to blower mode for sustained ventilation, effectively mitigating heat buildup and discomfort.
Four seat variants are available for the 2015 S 550, including luxury and reclining seat options. The Executive Rear Seat Package offers a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees, providing exceptional relaxation for rear occupants. The reclining seat includes a calf support, and when combined with the chauffeur seat option, creates a near-horizontal resting position.
The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS, with a rear center console, extends the front console into the rear cabin, incorporating thermo-cup holders and folding tables, further enhancing the first-class experience.
Multimedia Features: A Concert Hall on Wheels
The 2015 S 550 debuts a completely new multimedia generation, characterized by intuitive operation, vibrant visualizations, and animations. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat.
The Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz innovation, utilizes the firewall as a resonance chamber for the woofers, enhancing bass response and freeing up door space for mid-range speakers and increased storage.
Two premium audio systems developed in collaboration with Burmester are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transforming the cabin into a mobile concert hall.
The navigation system features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, “Driveshow” passenger information, and Google Maps integration on both front and rear displays. Real-time traffic information is displayed graphically for easy interpretation.
Body: Stability and Lightweight Engineering
The bodyshell of the 2015 S 550 is engineered for exceptional crash safety, rigidity for handling precision, and minimized noise and vibration. It represents the third generation of aluminum hybrid bodyshell construction, achieving a 50% improvement in lightweight index compared to its predecessor.
The aluminum hybrid construction, refined over decades, utilizes a strategic mix of materials, with aluminum comprising over 50% of the body structure. This approach maintains comparable body weight to previous generations despite increased safety and comfort requirements. Structural foams are strategically employed in key areas, and the entire outer skin, including the roof and front section, is crafted from aluminum. High-strength steel forms the safety passenger cell.
Intelligent Drive: Senses and Systems Working in Harmony
Mercedes-Benz “Intelligent Drive” philosophy takes center stage in the 2015 S 550, integrating numerous new and enhanced assistance systems to enhance both comfort and safety. These systems rely on a network of sensors, including a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, providing 360-degree awareness of the vehicle’s surroundings.
“Intelligent assistance systems analyze complex situations and better recognize potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems,” explained Prof. Thomas Weber, then Member of the Daimler Board of Management. This “sensor fusion” approach aims to provide comprehensive protection for vehicle occupants and other road users.
Key driving assistance systems in the 2015 S 550 include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help maintain lane centering.
- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, enhancing braking force.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Intervenes to prevent unintentional lane departure, especially in the presence of oncoming traffic.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Automatically adjusts high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Uses thermal imaging to detect pedestrians and animals in low-light conditions, with spotlight function to alert pedestrians.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior for signs of drowsiness and provides warnings.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Proactive Safety Measures
Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, continuously refined since its introduction, is further enhanced in the 2015 S 550. New PRE-SAFE® functions aim to prevent collisions and mitigate their consequences.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake with Pedestrian Recognition: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Detects imminent rear-end collisions and applies vehicle brakes to minimize whiplash and secondary accidents.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Releases seat belts in a controlled manner during frontal collisions to reduce chest pressure.
Setting the Standard for Rear Seat Safety
Mercedes-Benz extended safety features for rear passengers in the 2015 S 550 with innovations like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag.
The illuminated seat belt buckle extender automatically extends and retracts 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 (sliding under the seat belt) in reclined seating positions.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing (S 550 Focus):
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup offered a range of models to cater to diverse preferences and performance demands. The S 550 and S 550 4MATIC models, powered by the 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo engine, were central to the portfolio, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology.
- MY2015 S550: $94,400
- MY2015 S550 4MATIC: $97,400
These models provided a foundation of luxury and innovation, with a comprehensive list of standard equipment and a wide array of optional features to personalize the vehicle.
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights (S 550):
The 2015 S 550 came generously equipped with standard features, including:
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- LED Ambient Lighting with 7 colors and customizable zones
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package
Optional equipment further enhanced the S 550’s luxury and technological prowess:
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension
- ENERGIZING massage function seats
- Rear Seat Package with enhanced comfort and safety features
- Warmth & Comfort Package with heated surfaces
- New generation Driver Assistance Package with advanced safety systems
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning and Competition:
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550 was positioned as the ultimate expression of the Mercedes-Benz brand, representing industry-leading luxury, a refined interior, and groundbreaking innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety. Its main competitors included the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS.
Safety Feature Highlights:
The 2015 S 550 boasted 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
- 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 Specifications (Focus on S 550):
| Feature | S550 | S550 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $94,400 | $97,400 |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | 17/26/20 mpg | 16/26/19 mpg |
| Engine | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo |
| Performance | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec. | 4.8 sec. |
| Drive Configuration | RWD | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Automatic | 7-Speed Automatic |
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is more than just a luxury sedan; it is a testament to automotive innovation and engineering prowess. It embodies the “Essence of Luxury” in its meticulously crafted interior and sophisticated design, while “Intelligent Drive” technologies provide unparalleled safety and driver assistance. “Efficient Technology” is evident in its advanced LED lighting, engine performance, and lightweight construction. The 2015 S 550 set a new standard for luxury vehicles, and its influence continues to resonate in the automotive landscape today, cementing its place as a true icon of automotive excellence.
