The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and particularly the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550, stands as a beacon of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology in the automotive world. This flagship sedan continues the S-Class tradition of setting benchmarks for comfort, sophistication, and innovation, offering discerning drivers an unparalleled driving experience. Let’s delve into the features that made the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 a standout choice in its class.
Standard Features: A Foundation of Opulence and Technology
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 doesn’t compromise on standard features, providing a comprehensive suite of amenities right from the base model. Exterior enhancements include striking 18-inch wheels that provide a commanding stance and smooth ride, complemented by an adaptive air suspension system. This AIRMATIC suspension dynamically adjusts to road conditions, ensuring exceptional ride comfort and handling. Active bi-xenon headlights with automatic high beams and LED running lights not only provide superior illumination but also add a signature visual appeal to the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550. Practicality is also addressed with a power trunk closer and a sunroof, adding to the vehicle’s convenience and open-air enjoyment.
Stepping inside the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550, occupants are enveloped in a world of comfort and refined luxury. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for both driver and passenger. 10-way power front seats, adorned with supple leather upholstery, offer heating, ventilation, four-way lumbar adjustment, and memory functions, creating a truly bespoke seating experience. Extended interior trim further elevates the cabin ambiance, while a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel adds to driver personalization. Auto-dimming driver-side and rearview mirrors enhance safety and convenience, and a power rear sunshade provides rear passengers with added privacy and sun protection.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 is also a technological tour-de-force. The COMAND electronics interface serves as the central hub for vehicle controls and infotainment. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless smartphone integration, while a navigation system ensures effortless route guidance. Voice controls offer hands-free operation of various systems, enhancing safety and ease of use. Audiophiles will appreciate the 15-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, complete with a six-CD/DVD changer, HD radio, satellite radio, and an iPod interface, transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels.
Optional Packages and Standalone Enhancements: Tailoring Luxury to Perfection
For those seeking to further personalize their 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550, a range of optional packages and standalone features were available. The highly desirable Premium 2 package, also standard on the S63 AMG, added a rearview camera and front/rear parking sensors, significantly easing parking maneuvers. Keyless ignition/entry further enhances convenience, while front seats with massage, adjustable/active bolsters, and enhanced headrests elevate seating comfort to new heights, perfect for long journeys.
For enhanced safety and driver assistance, the Driver Assistance package provided adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning systems. These systems actively contribute to safer driving by providing alerts and even evasive action in certain situations (note: this package’s evasive action was not available on the S400 model).
Rear passengers were not forgotten, with the Rear Seat package offering four-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power rear seats with memory, heating, and ventilation, mirroring the luxury provided to front occupants. The Rear Seat Entertainment package transformed the rear cabin into a mobile theater with a dual-screen entertainment system and two rear seat remotes, allowing passengers to control all COMAND system functions.
Further standalone options for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 included power-operated shades for the rear side windows for increased privacy, a panoramic sunroof for an even more open and airy cabin, a heated steering wheel for cold climates, a night-vision warning system to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, and an upgrade to a premium 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system for the ultimate audio experience.
Stepping Up to AMG and S 600: Performance and Ultimate Luxury
While the focus here is on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550, it’s worth noting the higher-performance and even more luxurious variants within the 2012 S-Class lineup. The S63 AMG model amplified the sporty character with 20-inch AMG wheels, distinctive AMG styling, and performance enhancements to the suspension, steering, brakes, and exhaust. Inside, AMG sport seats, steering wheel, and unique trim elements further emphasized the performance pedigree. Active Body Control (ABC) suspension was also included, minimizing body roll during cornering. An available AMG Performance package pushed engine output and top speed even further.
The S600 and S65 AMG models represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance. The S600 included many previously optional features as standard, along with 19-inch wheels, enhanced brakes, and Active Body Control. The S65 AMG combined the S600’s opulence with the S63 AMG’s performance enhancements for the ultimate S-Class experience.
Across the entire 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class range, including the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550, the innovative Splitview option was available. This technology allowed the driver and passenger to view different content simultaneously on the central COMAND screen, with the passenger receiving a dedicated COMAND remote control.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 embodied the essence of the S-Class: a harmonious blend of luxury, technology, and performance. Its comprehensive standard features, extensive optional packages, and powerful yet refined driving experience cemented its position as a leader in the luxury sedan segment. For those seeking a vehicle that offered both unparalleled comfort and state-of-the-art innovation, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 remains a compelling choice, even in today’s automotive landscape. Its legacy of luxury and engineering excellence continues to resonate with drivers who appreciate the finer things in life.
