The 2015 Mercedes-benz S550 arrived as more than just a car; it was a statement. Embodying the three core engineering principles of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury,” this model year S-Class, particularly the S550, pushed the boundaries of automotive technology and redefined what it meant to travel in unparalleled comfort and style. For those seeking the best in class, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 delivered on the promise of being “the best automobile in the world,” setting new benchmarks across the luxury automotive landscape.
The pursuit of automotive perfection is palpable in every detail of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550, especially within its meticulously crafted interior. Mercedes-Benz aimed for “the best or nothing” in every aspect, from the exquisitely designed seats and advanced air conditioning to the intuitive controls and sophisticated infotainment system. The interior of the S550 is a testament to the “Essence of Luxury,” where new ideas are painstakingly realized with the highest perceived quality. This commitment to excellence extends beyond mere aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment of unparalleled comfort and well-being for both driver and passengers within the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 showcasing leather seats, wood trim, and ambient lighting, emphasizing the vehicle’s opulent design and comfort.
Safety and comfort coalesce in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 under the umbrella of “Intelligent Drive.” Building upon Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering work with PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, the S550 integrates a suite of new systems designed to make driving both more relaxing and significantly safer. This fusion of comfort and safety is a hallmark of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to holistic automotive excellence.
The design of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 communicates a modern sense of status and embraces sensual shapes. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, describes it as “a modern embodiment of sensual clarity,” drawing a lineage from sophisticated, progressive design to the classic elegance of 1930s Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 features a larger, more upright, and three-dimensional radiator grille, asserting its presence and leadership. The classic sedan proportions, defined by a long hood, flowing roofline, and gently slanting rear, contribute to the S550’s prestigious and sporty coupé-style aesthetic.
Alt text: Upright and three-dimensional radiator grille of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, highlighting the iconic design element and brand identity, relevant to the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550.
The side profile of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 is structured by the signature “Dropping Line,” adding dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, exuding both excitement and serenity. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel further accentuates the athletic character of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The rear design features horizontal lines that emphasize width and elegant, slightly slanting forms for aerodynamic efficiency. The tail lights, fully encased by the body, along with the rear windscreen that seamlessly integrates into the C-pillars, complete the design with meticulous attention to detail.
In a groundbreaking move, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 became the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, embracing full LED technology for both interior and exterior lighting. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle, the cabin, and the trunk, offering multi-level functionality. Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS, enhanced for the 2015 model year, further improve visibility and safety, leveraging the S-Class’s 360-degree vision system enabled by a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors.
Setting another world first, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 introduced ROAD SURFACE SCAN in conjunction with MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension (optional). This innovative system uses a stereo camera to detect road imperfections ahead and proactively adjusts the suspension to optimize ride comfort. Standard suspension features include the Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and the AIRMATIC full air suspension, ensuring the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 delivers a supremely smooth and controlled ride.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating Mercedes-Benz Magic Body Control suspension system, showcasing its adaptive capabilities and contribution to ride comfort in models like the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550.
The interior of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 is designed with visual breadth and calm solidity in mind. Horizontal lines and elements create a spacious and serene environment, blending high quality materials with functional clarity. Generous wood trim, metallized switch surfaces, and meticulously crafted controls exemplify the outstanding quality. Rear passengers in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 are treated to first-class accommodations, with options for rear seat packages that include a business center console and enhanced comfort features.
The control and display concept in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 represents an elegant new command center. Two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays serve as the information hub, with the left display replacing the traditional instrument cluster and the right display controlling infotainment and comfort functions. The system includes a touch-sensitive telephone keypad, a favorites function, and voice control, all designed for ergonomic operation and enhanced safety. The AIR-BALANCE package, a new feature for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550, enhances the in-cabin atmosphere with perfume atomization, ionization, and improved filtration. The “active perfuming system” is a world-first, allowing for personalized interior fragrances.
Seats in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 are designed for both mobile office functionality and ultimate well-being. The ENERGIZING massage function, based on the hot-stone principle, and active seat ventilation with reversing fans elevate seating comfort to new heights. Rear seat options include an Executive seat with adjustable backrest, maximizing relaxation or productivity on the move. The Frontbass system, a unique audio innovation, utilizes the car’s structure as a resonance chamber, enhancing sound quality and freeing up door space. Burmester Surround Sound and High-End 3D-Surround Sound systems are available for audiophiles, turning the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 into a mobile concert hall.
Built with a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 achieves maximum stability, high rigidity, and low noise and vibration levels. The lightweight design, with over 50% aluminum content, maintains body weight despite increased safety and comfort features. The intelligent drive system in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 relies on sensor fusion, networking a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors to provide 360-degree all-round vision. Assistance systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Night View Assist PLUS enhance both comfort and safety.
Alt text: Infographic highlighting key safety features of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, including driver assistance systems and PRE-SAFE technologies, applicable to the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 also features extended PRE-SAFE® protection, including PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection and PRE-SAFE® PLUS for rear-end collision protection. New rear safety features include seat belt buckle extenders, beltbags, and cushionbags, further enhancing occupant protection.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 models started at an MSRP of $94,400 for the RWD version and $97,400 for the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive variant. Standard equipment highlights included COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, MAGIC VISION CONTROL, Burmester Surround Sound System, LED Ambient Lighting, Touchpad for COMAND System, and the Air Balance Package. Optional features such as MAGIC BODY CONTROL, ENERGIZING massage function, Rear Seat Package, and the Driver Assistance Package allowed for further customization and enhancement of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550.
Positioned as the highest expression of the Mercedes-Benz brand, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 offered an industry-leading, refined, and luxurious interior, groundbreaking innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety, and efficient drive concepts. Its main competitors included the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS. Safety feature highlights ranged from COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS and ATTENTION ASSIST® to DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist and PRE-SAFE® Brake with Pedestrian Recognition, solidifying the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 as a leader in automotive safety and luxury.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to “the best or nothing.” It is a vehicle that not only met but exceeded expectations, delivering unparalleled luxury, innovative technology, and uncompromising safety, making it a true icon of its era and a benchmark for luxury sedans worldwide.
