The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been synonymous with automotive excellence, representing the pinnacle of luxury, innovation, and engineering. The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, building upon decades of heritage, firmly cemented its position as “the best automobile in the world” by pushing technological boundaries and redefining the very essence of luxury. With its core engineering priorities focused on “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and the “Essence of Luxury,” the Mercedes Benz S 2015 model set new standards not only for Mercedes-Benz but for the entire automotive industry.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, articulated this ambition perfectly: “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 pursuit of perfection in every detail is what makes the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class a truly exceptional vehicle.
Essence of Luxury: Interior and Design
The “Essence of Luxury” philosophy is immediately apparent in the interior of the mercedes benz s 2015. From the meticulously crafted seats to the advanced climate control system, every element within the cabin has been designed and executed with painstaking attention to detail. New ideas, innovative technologies, and a relentless focus on perceived quality underpin the high standards set for this flagship model. The interior of the mercedes benz s 2015 is a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication, offering an unparalleled experience for both driver and passengers.
Interior: Visual Breadth and Calm Solidity
The interior design of the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class embodies a classic yet cutting-edge saloon aesthetic. Characterized by a uniquely fluid and sensuously elegant style, the cabin creates an atmosphere of visual breadth and calm solidity. Horizontal elements and lines dominate the design, contributing to a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. High-quality materials harmonize with clarity and functionality, seamlessly blending ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness to the highest standards.
Alt Text: The luxurious dashboard of the Mercedes-Benz S 2015, showcasing the dual-screen display and premium wood trim, emphasizing the vehicle’s sophisticated interior design.
The coordinated use of materials and colors creates an exclusive interior environment. Generous amounts of wood trim, particularly on the dashboard and center console, add warmth and elegance. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes, available in three color shades to complement the interior palette, further highlight the exceptional quality of the mercedes benz s 2015. Rear passengers are treated with the same level of first-class luxury as those in the front, with meticulously designed seats, door panels, and controls. Optional rear seat packages, including a Business center console, offer enhanced individualization with features like additional storage, folding tables, and two-place seating in the rear, transforming the mercedes benz s 2015 into a mobile executive suite.
Exterior: Modern Sense of Status and Sensual Shapes
The exterior design of the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class exudes a modern sense of status and refined elegance. Instantly recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz, the design language blends classic Mercedes elements with contemporary styling cues. Gorden Wagener, design chief, describes it as: “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.”
Alt Text: Front view of the Mercedes-Benz S 2015, highlighting the larger, upright radiator grille and the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, emphasizing the vehicle’s commanding presence.
The radiator grille, now larger, more upright, and distinctly three-dimensional, emphasizes the car’s ambition to lead. Classic sedan proportions are achieved with a long hood, flowing, domed roofline, and gently slanting rear end. The size and space are masterfully crafted to convey prestige, while the powerful roofline hints at the car’s sporty coupé-style intentions. The signature “Dropping Line” elegantly structures the side wall, adding dynamism even when stationary. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, balancing excitement and composure. Pronounced shoulders above the rear wheels further accentuate the athletic character of the mercedes benz s 2015.
The rear design of the mercedes benz s 2015 continues the theme of sensual shapes, with surfaces and lines flowing seamlessly into the rear end. The slightly slanting form is not only elegant but also aerodynamically advantageous. Horizontal lines across the trunk lid and bumper emphasize the car’s width, while the rear windscreen, cutting into the C-pillars with a rounded upper area, adds a coupé-like touch. The new-style tail lights, fully encased by the car body and meticulously crafted, complete the design with sophisticated detail.
Intelligent Drive: Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Intelligent Drive” philosophy merges comfort and safety into a seamless driving experience. The mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class is equipped with a suite of new and enhanced systems that provide unparalleled levels of comfort and safety, representing a new dimension in motoring. These systems rely on advanced sensor technology, including a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, providing the mercedes benz s 2015 with 360-degree all-round vision and enhanced hazard detection capabilities.
LED Technology: Lighting the Way Forward
The mercedes benz s 2015 marks a significant milestone in automotive lighting, becoming the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, embracing full LED technology for both interior and exterior lighting. This pioneering move by Mercedes-Benz builds upon its leadership in automotive lighting innovation. The multi-level functionality of the lighting system is another world first, with features like reduced brake light intensity at night or while stopped at traffic lights to minimize glare for following drivers. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle, the interior, and the trunk, depending on the equipment level.
Alt Text: Close-up of the Mercedes-Benz S 2015 LED headlights, showcasing the intricate design and advanced lighting technology, emphasizing the vehicle’s pioneering role in automotive illumination.
Visibility is further enhanced by improved Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS systems. The mercedes benz s 2015 utilizes a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors to achieve 360-degree vision, significantly improving the detection of potential hazards.
Suspension: The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes”
The mercedes benz s 2015 introduces another world-first innovation: ROAD SURFACE SCAN in conjunction with MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension. This optional system uses a stereo camera to detect bumps and road irregularities ahead. MAGIC BODY CONTROL then instantaneously adjusts the suspension to proactively respond to these uneven surfaces, providing an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride. Standard suspension features include the continuously operating Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC, ensuring a refined and controlled driving experience in the mercedes benz s 2015.
Control and Display Concept: Elegant New Command Center
The control and display concept in the mercedes benz s 2015 represents an elegant and intuitive command center. Two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in 8:3 format serve as the new information hub. The left-hand display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information, while the right-hand display controls infotainment and comfort functions. This dual-screen setup reflects the increasing integration of functions within modern vehicles, prioritizing ergonomics, user convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add to the high-quality feel of the interior. The fine structuring of the metal surfaces provides a tactile and auditory feedback that is characteristic of Mercedes-Benz attention to detail. New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an extended favorites function with twelve freely selectable memory places. The rotary pushbutton remains the primary control element, supplemented by direct access keys on the center console for essential functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems. Voice entry is enhanced with the Enhanced Voice Control System, allowing for complete addresses to be spoken in one command (one-shot input), along with voice control for telephone and audio systems. A new feature includes the ability to have text messages (SMS) or emails read aloud.
Climate Control: A Wealth of New Features
The climate control system in the mercedes benz s 2015 has been systematically enhanced, focusing on performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and improved filtration compared to the standard system. Rear automatic climate control gains two additional zones for enhanced thermal comfort. A completely new feature is the electric heating of armrests and center consoles, further elevating passenger comfort.
The “active perfuming system,” a world-first feature within the AIR-BALANCE package, allows for individualization of the vehicle’s interior fragrance. This system is manually activated and adjustable in intensity, discreetly diffusing a mild fragrance that dissipates quickly without permanently altering the interior smell or depositing molecules on fabrics.
Seats: Mobile Office and Center of Well-being
Mercedes-Benz has elevated seating and climatic comfort in the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class to unprecedented levels with numerous world-first innovations. These include the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seats have received particular attention, with four different variants available, including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees, allowing rear occupants to work or relax in exceptional comfort.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a world first, utilizes 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest along 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 utilizes reversing fans for the first time. Initially, cooler ambient air is drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing the temperature of heated seats. After four minutes, the fans switch to blower mode to minimize drafts. Four seat variants are offered for the mercedes benz s 2015. Luxury and reclining seat variants feature redesigned adjustment kinematics, with separate backrest adjustment to maintain legroom and seat reference points. The seat cushion is also separately adjustable for angle and horizontal position.
The Executive Rear Seat Package (reclining seat) behind the front passenger seat offers a maximum backrest angle increased to 43.5 degrees, the largest in the luxury segment. This reclining seat includes a calf support adjustable for length and angle. Combined with a heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat and an additional comfort cushion, it creates a reclined position that sets new standards for sleeping and resting comfort in the automotive sector. The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS, with a rear center console, extends the front console visually to the rear and includes innovative thermo-cup holders using Peltier technology to cool or warm drinks. Aircraft-style folding tables are also integrated into the center console.
Multimedia Features: Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new generation of multimedia system debuts in the mercedes benz s 2015, offering intuitive operation and enhanced functionality through visualization and animations. Innovations include a multi-user system, allowing independent access to media sources from any seat. The Frontbass system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and first used in a sedan, is standard across all audio systems. Woofers are integrated into the firewall, utilizing the almost 40-liter space in the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber, eliminating the need for conventional door-mounted woofers and freeing up door space. Mid-range speakers are relocated upwards in the doors, improving the soundscape.
Two high-quality audio systems developed with Burmester are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transforming the mercedes benz s 2015 into a mobile concert hall. 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 improved clarity.
Body: Maximum Stability and Lightweight Design
The bodyshell of the mercedes benz s 2015 is engineered for maximum crash safety, exceptional rigidity for superior handling, and extremely low levels of noise and vibration. This is achieved through a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell. The lightweight index, measuring torsional stiffness relative to weight and vehicle size, is improved by 50 percent compared to its predecessor. Building upon the hybrid lightweight construction pioneered in the 220 model series in the 1990s, the mercedes benz s 2015 further increases the use of aluminum to over 50 percent of the body structure. This allows for maintaining, or even slightly reducing, body weight compared to previous models, despite significantly increased comfort and safety requirements and added features. Structural foams are strategically used in node areas, and the entire outer skin, including the roof and front section, is aluminum. High-strength steel is extensively used in the safety passenger cell.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: Networked with All Senses
“Intelligent Drive” in the mercedes benz s 2015 is driven by a philosophy of accident avoidance and consequence mitigation, embodied in Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” approach. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems work in concert to enhance both comfort and safety. These systems rely on “sensor fusion,” networking data from a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors to create a comprehensive 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Prof. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management, explains, “Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.”
Key driver assistance systems in the mercedes benz s 2015 include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians using the stereo camera and enhances braking force applied by the driver.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes, especially oncoming traffic, and reduces the risk of unintentional lane departure through one-sided braking.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows permanent high-beam usage without dazzling other drivers by selectively masking out portions of the beam.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Improved with a thermal imaging camera to detect pedestrians or animals in unlit areas, displaying a crystal-clear night view image and highlighting hazards. A spotlight function can flash detected pedestrians to alert both driver and pedestrian.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior and warns of inattentiveness and drowsiness over an extended speed range. It also provides fatigue status, driving time since last break, adjustable sensitivity, and service area recommendations in the navigation system.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention is Better Than Cure
Building upon Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, the mercedes benz s 2015 introduces further enhancements to prevent collisions and mitigate their consequences.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph to avoid collisions.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions and, if collision is unavoidable, firmly applies the stationary vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash injuries and reduce secondary accident risks. Reversible belt tensioners are deployed immediately before impact.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Releases seat belts in a controlled manner during frontal collisions to reduce chest pressure and injury severity.
Setting the Standard for Rear Seat Safety
Mercedes-Benz has extended safety systems for rear passengers in the mercedes benz s 2015 with features like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender, included in the Rear Seat Package, automatically extends and retracts, reducing belt slack for improved passenger security. 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 seats during accidents.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Models and Pricing
The mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class lineup offered a variety of models to cater to different performance and luxury preferences:
| Model | MSRP | Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | Engine | Performance | 0-60 mph | Drive Configuration | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S550 | $94,400 | 17/26/20 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 449 hp @ 516 lb.-ft. torque | 4.8 sec. | RWD | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission |
| S550 4MATIC | $97,400 | 16/26/19 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 449 hp @ 516 lb.-ft. torque | 4.8 sec. | All-Wheel Drive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission |
| S600 | $166,900 | 12/21/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 523 hp @ 612 lb.-ft. torque | 4.5 sec. | RWD | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission |
| Mercedes-Maybach S600 | “around $200k” | TBD | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 523 hp @ 612 lb.-ft. torque | 5.0 sec. | RWD | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission |
| S63 AMG 4MATIC | $141,450 | 15/23/18 | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo with direct injection | 577 hp @ 664 lb.-ft. torque | 3.9 sec. | All-Wheel Drive | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission |
| S65 AMG | $222,000 | 13/20/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-turbo with direct injection | 621 hp @ 738 lb.-ft. torque | 4.2 sec. | RWD | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7- SPEED Transmission |
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights
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 dimming zones
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package: Fragrance, ionization, and filtration of air through the HVAC system
Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL: Road surface scan, automatic and individual wheel damping adjustment for enhanced ride comfort.
- ENERGIZING massage function: Unique hot-stone principle seat massage.
- Rear Seat Package: Rear seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear, 4-Zone Climate Control, electrically adjustable right-rear footrest, front passenger seat moves forward additionally.
- Warmth & Comfort Package: Heated steering wheel, heated front/rear armrests, heated & active ventilated rear seats, power rear seats, memory rear seats, rear heated seats.
- New generation Driver Assistance Package: Active Lane Keeping Assist with enhanced functionality, DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist & BAS PLUS® with Cross-Traffic Assist, PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition.
- New generation Active Parking Assist: Semi-automatic curbside parking function.
Model Positioning and Competitors
The mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class is positioned as the highest expression of the Mercedes-Benz brand, representing industry-leading refinement and luxury. Its innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety, along with efficient drive concepts, set it apart in the luxury sedan segment.
Main Competitors:
- BMW 7 Series
- Audi A8
- Lexus LS
Key Safety Features Highlights
The mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class boasts an extensive suite of safety features:
- 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
Conclusion
The mercedes benz s 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is more than just a luxury sedan; it is a technological tour de force and a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to “the best or nothing.” From its groundbreaking LED lighting and MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension to its comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety systems, the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class redefined the standards for luxury and innovation in the automotive world. It solidified its position as the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand and continued the S-Class legacy of being widely regarded as the best automobile in the world. For discerning drivers seeking the ultimate in luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the mercedes benz s 2015 S-Class remains an exceptional and compelling choice.
