For discerning luxury car enthusiasts, the quest for automotive distinction often leads to a unique crossroads. When a Lexus LS no longer satisfies the desire for elevated opulence and exclusivity, yet the grandeur of a Bentley or Rolls-Royce feels premature, the Mercedes S-Class emerges as the quintessential choice. However, the previous generation S-Class, despite its prestigious lineage, presented a peculiar paradox. It lagged behind even more mainstream vehicles in terms of cutting-edge technology and sheer luxury – a significant concern given its price range, spanning from just under $100,000 to nearly $250,000. Fortunately, the redesigned S-Class, much like the new C-Class, signifies a resurgence of the premiere German luxury brand, reaffirming its commitment to innovation and unparalleled luxury.
Exterior Elegance of the 2015 S550
Since 1972, the S-Class has reigned supreme as the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz fleet. Available in various configurations – long wheelbase, short wheelbase, coupé, sedan, and limousine – the S-Class has consistently set the benchmark for full-size luxury automobiles. However, its predecessor arguably missed the mark aesthetically, presenting a somewhat uninspired exterior characterized by a bland profile, a diminutive grille, and headlights that appeared disproportionately small.
The 2015 Mercedes S550 marks a significant departure, embracing Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary design language, drawing inspiration from models like the CLS and CLA. It features a more assertive grille and sharply styled headlights, harmoniously blended with the classic elegance of the iconic tri-star hood ornament. True to its heritage as the preferred chariot of diplomats, dignitaries, and heads of state, the S550 maintains an upright and commanding side profile. The cabin design subtly tapers towards the rear, affording rear occupants, perhaps royalty, an enhanced panoramic view.
At the rear, Mercedes-Benz masterfully merges its corporate design identity with time-honored S-Class cues reminiscent of the 1991 models. This is evident in the taillights, which maintain a classic design, stopping short of wrapping onto the trunk lid. This deliberate stylistic choice, however, results in a slightly narrower trunk opening compared to some rival luxury sedans.
Despite a visual resemblance to the W220 S-Class, the W222 platform underpinning the 2015 S550 represents a complete evolution. A key innovation is the adoption of a new body structure, crafted with nearly 50% aluminum. Unlike manufacturers who opted for an all-aluminum approach, Mercedes-Benz strategically employed aluminum to optimize weight distribution and achieve weight reduction. The outcome is an S550 that weighs approximately 4,600 pounds, boasting a near-perfect 50/50 weight balance – a subtle improvement over the previously reported 52/48 distribution.
Interior Opulence and Refinement
Mercedes-Benz adopts a measured approach to interior design evolution, and the 2015 S550 interior reflects this philosophy, eschewing radical departures. While understated, the cabin exudes an undeniable sense of premium luxury, successfully distancing itself from the somewhat generic “upscale Buick” ambiance of its predecessor. Our test vehicle was equipped with the optional premium leather package, a nearly $6,000 upgrade that undoubtedly elevates the interior ambiance. This package encompasses sumptuous two-tone leather and contrasting piping throughout the cabin, extending from the dashboard to the door panels. Even areas of the door panels concealed when closed are meticulously finished in stitched leather. Laser-cut metal speaker grilles are strategically positioned throughout the cabin, a design element also featured in the more accessible new C-Class models.
Legroom in the 2015 Mercedes S550 is generous but not class-leading. While the S-Class is undeniably large by European standards, its overall length is only marginally greater than a Ford Taurus and slightly less than a Lincoln MKS. Consequently, the front legroom, at 41.4 inches, is actually slightly less than some full-size American sedans. Rear legroom is ample, yet comparable to large sedans from GM, Ford, and Chrysler. The rear seats are exceptionally comfortable, particularly in our test vehicle, which featured the optional reclining rear seat package. However, occupants taller than 6 feet 2 inches may find it challenging to fully extend their legs on the footrest. For those requiring limousine-like rear passenger space, the Mercedes-Maybach S600, with an 8-inch wheelbase extension, provides enhanced legroom and headroom. However, the inclusion of features like a champagne refrigerator and executive rear seats compromises trunk space, reducing it to 12.3 cubic feet in the S500.
The Mercedes-Maybach Distinction
The Maybach marque was initially conceived as Mercedes-Benz’s foray into the ultra-luxury segment, aiming to challenge the dominance of Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Regrettably, Mercedes-Benz’s initial strategy involved directly competing with stretched versions of the previous generation S-Class, resulting in the Maybach 57 and 62 models, which failed to resonate with buyers. In 2013, the standalone Maybach brand was discontinued, and a revised approach was adopted. Capitalizing on the instant recognizability of the previous Maybach models as elongated S-Classes, Mercedes-Benz rebranded its long-wheelbase S-Class variant as the Mercedes-Maybach S600. With a more modest 8-inch stretch and a correspondingly less stratospheric price tag, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 effectively became the limousine iteration of the S-Class. Interestingly, the Maybach S600 is not the most expensive S-Class variant; that distinction belongs to the S65 AMG.
Infotainment and Advanced Technology
In the realm of luxury automobiles, an array of advanced technology and sophisticated infotainment features is indispensable. Upon entering the 2015 Mercedes S550, the most striking feature is the dual 12.3-inch LCD screens seamlessly integrated across the dashboard, spanning from the center console to the driver’s side. The right-side LCD hosts the latest iteration of the Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment system, while the left display functions as the instrument cluster and night vision display.
While the software interface retains a familiar Mercedes-Benz aesthetic, the COMAND system in the W222 S-Class has undergone substantial updates, incorporating a faster processor and expanded functionality. The enhanced speed and fluidity of graphic transitions are immediately apparent when comparing the S-Class system to that in an E-Class model. Mercedes-Benz has also refined the voice recognition system in this generation, enabling more intuitive and reliable voice commands for tasks such as selecting specific music tracks from USB drives or Apple devices. However, online functionality in the 2015 S550 lags slightly behind systems like BMW’s iDrive or Audi’s MMI. While Google Earth-powered satellite imagery is available, it is not seamlessly integrated into the primary navigation display. Similarly, streaming radio and Yelp location finder applications could benefit from improved integration. Another minor drawback is the absence of dedicated track forward/backward buttons, making music track navigation less convenient than in some competitors.
LCD instrument clusters, while theoretically offering vast customization potential, often fall short of full exploitation. Cadillac stands out as one of the few manufacturers offering limited customization options for 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.
The 2015 S550 is replete with advanced technology features. Optional features include a split-view screen (right-side LCD only) enabling the passenger to watch video content while the vehicle is in motion, and a rear-seat entertainment system providing rear passengers with an airline-style display showing location, elevation profile, and weather conditions at the destination. Both front and rear seats offer massage functions, rear seats recline, and power-operated sunshades are standard. Rear passengers also benefit from 3-position seat memory. Audio systems range from impressive standard setups to a truly opulent 24-speaker, 1,940-watt Burmester surround sound system.
The 2015 Mercedes S550 boasts 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 systems collectively provide the S-Class with a comprehensive, almost bionic, awareness of its surroundings. Radar sensors enable adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alerts, and pre-collision safety system preparation. The S-Class can autonomously parallel park, detect pedestrians and automatically brake to avoid collisions, and highlight animals like deer in the night vision display. Magic Body Control, an innovative suspension system, scans the road ahead and proactively adjusts the suspension to mitigate the impact of road imperfections. While multi-beam LED headlamps are not available in the US due to regulatory constraints, the system that automatically dispenses air freshener into the HVAC system is available in America.
Powertrain and Performance
Unlike some competitors who position hybrid powertrains as range-topping models, Mercedes-Benz views the S550 plug-in hybrid as a more mainstream option. For the same 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 V8 engine, producing 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 2015 S550 from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.6 seconds.
For those prioritizing 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, equipped with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, achieves sub-4-second 0-60 mph acceleration thanks to standard all-wheel drive. The range-topping S65 AMG boasts the most formidable output, with 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, but its rear-wheel-drive configuration results in a slightly slower 0-60 mph time compared to the S63. Intriguingly, all 2015 S-Class models feature a transmission with two reverse speeds.
Driving Dynamics and Ride Comfort
Skepticism surrounded the Magic Body Control system initially, and real-world testing revealed its limitations. While the stereo camera system effectively mitigates the impact of speed bumps, its effectiveness on rough highways or potholed urban roads is less pronounced. This is partly due to the camera-based road detection system and partly attributable to the already highly compliant standard air suspension.
Despite weight reduction efforts, the 2015 Mercedes S550 remains among the heavier vehicles in its segment. The contrast with the Jaguar XJ, weighing a mere 3,854 lbs, is stark. The XJ’s lightweight construction and absence of four-corner air suspension in the latest models contribute to its status as the most agile vehicle in this class. The S550, in contrast, embodies a more traditional luxury sedan persona. The air suspension delivers an exceptionally smooth ride, akin to a “pillow floating on a cloud.”
Despite its cloud-like ride, the 2015 S550 delivers surprisingly brisk acceleration, matching the 0-60 mph time of a BMW M235i and exhibiting skidpad performance comparable to a BMW 335i. It completes the quarter-mile sprint in 12.8 seconds at 110 mph, all within an eerily quiet cabin. The steering, while insulated, offers commendable accuracy. Body roll is present but well-controlled, maintaining composure. The all-wheel-drive system and near 50/50 weight distribution contribute to the S550’s neutral and confident handling across diverse road surfaces – a remarkable feat for a sedan weighing nearly two and a half tons.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The 2015 Mercedes S-Class occupies a unique position in the luxury car market, almost existing in a segment of its own. The base price of 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, or Audi A8. A moderately optioned S550 can easily reach $115,000, and our test vehicle, with limited options, was priced at $137,500. This starting price for the base engine S-Class already exceeds the maximum price of most competitors.
Stepping up to the S63 AMG elevates the price to $141,450, aligning with the upper end of the Audi A8 range. A 12-cylinder engine option starts at $166,900, exceeding a fully loaded Audi A8 W12 by the price of a Honda Accord. The Maybach variant starts at $189,350, and the top-tier S65 AMG commands a price of $220,000. The Porsche Panamera is the only other vehicle with a comparable price range. While the Panamera offers a slightly more premium interior, its focus is distinct – more driver-centric and less comfort-oriented. For those seeking even more exclusivity, the S65 AMG effectively bridges the gap to Bentley.
The 2015 Mercedes S-Class represents a restoration of faith in the Mercedes-Benz brand. While it may not be the most value-oriented option in the luxury segment, this is arguably a defining characteristic for its target demographic. For buyers seeking “value luxury,” the Kia K900 at $60,000 presents an alternative.
The 2015 S550 4Matic embodies the quintessential full-size luxury sedan. It is substantial yet avoids ostentation, offers unparalleled cabin quietness and ride smoothness, delivers impressive power, and handles with surprising agility. While some of these attributes can be found individually in competitors, the Mercedes S550 excels in harmonizing them all in a manner unmatched by any other sedan in its class, earning nods of approval from discerning clientele.
Mercedes-Benz provided the vehicle, insurance, and a tank of fuel 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
