The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz emerged as a beacon of innovation and opulence, extending the boundaries of automotive technology and luxury. Built upon the engineering pillars of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury,” the S-Class of this generation cemented its position not just as a flagship for Mercedes-Benz, but as a benchmark for the entire automotive industry. This model year continued the S-Class tradition of setting new standards, reinforcing its reputation as “the best automobile in the world.”
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, articulated the ambition behind the 2015 S-Class, stating: “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 philosophy of uncompromising excellence is palpable in every aspect of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz, from its meticulously crafted interior to its suite of groundbreaking technologies.
The Essence of Luxury Embodied in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz
The pursuit of automotive perfection is strikingly evident in the interior of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz. Every detail, from the meticulously stitched seats to the whisper-quiet air conditioning system, the intuitively designed controls, and the elegantly flowing design, contributes to an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury. The infotainment system is both advanced and user-friendly, while comfort and safety features are seamlessly integrated to enhance the overall driving and passenger experience. This dedication to “The Essence of Luxury” ensures that occupants of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz are enveloped in an environment of serene sophistication.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety in the 2015 S 550
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety has long been a hallmark of the brand. Building on innovations like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz introduces “Intelligent Drive,” a suite of systems that seamlessly blend comfort and safety into a cohesive driving experience. This generation of S-Class incorporates a host of new technologies designed to make journeys not only more relaxing but also significantly safer. The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz utilizes sophisticated sensors and intelligent algorithms to anticipate and mitigate potential hazards, providing drivers with an unprecedented level of assistance and peace of mind.
Design: A Modern Expression of Status and Sensuality
The design of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz speaks volumes about its status and ambition. Recognizable worldwide as a Mercedes-Benz, the S-Class carries forward the brand’s iconic design language while embracing modern aesthetics. Gorden Wagener, the design chief, described the approach: “The sophisticated design of the S-Class has always been an expression of luxury and automotive grandeur of its era. And our new S-Class continues this tradition. With its classic architecture and flowing silhouette, it is a modern embodiment of sensual clarity.”
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz features a larger, more upright radiator grille, projecting an image of effortless superiority and leadership. Its long hood, gracefully arched roofline, and subtly sloping rear create classic sedan proportions, exuding prestige and a hint of sporty coupé styling. The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line flowing from front to rear, elegantly sculpts the side profile, adding dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks creates a powerful and elongated silhouette, conveying both excitement and composure. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheels further emphasizes the car’s athletic stance.
The rear design of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is equally compelling, with surfaces and lines that flow seamlessly from the side profile. The slightly inclined rear form not only contributes to the elegant aesthetic but also enhances aerodynamic efficiency. Horizontal lines stretching from the trunk lid to the bumper accentuate the car’s width, while the rear windscreen, smoothly integrated into the C-pillars, echoes coupé design cues. The taillights, completely integrated into the car body with meticulously crafted inner elements, represent the pinnacle of design refinement, a hallmark of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
Pioneering LED Technology: Illuminating the Future
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz marks 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 bold move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering role in automotive lighting technology. The multi-level functionality of the lighting system is another world-first, intelligently adjusting brake light intensity at night or while stationary at traffic lights to minimize glare for following drivers. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz, encompassing headlamps (up to 56 LEDs each), taillights (up to 35 LEDs each, plus 4 for the rear fog lamp), and the interior (approximately 300 LEDs including ambient lighting).
Visibility in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is further enhanced by advancements in Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the S-Class achieves 360-degree vision, significantly improving hazard detection capabilities. These lighting and vision systems work in concert to provide unparalleled clarity and safety in various driving conditions, solidifying the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to driver assistance technology.
Suspension: The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes” in the 2015 S 550
In a groundbreaking innovation, the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz introduces ROAD SURFACE SCAN, the world’s first suspension system capable of detecting road imperfections ahead. Using a stereo camera, this system identifies bumps and uneven surfaces, and MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously adjusts the suspension to preemptively counteract these irregularities. This optional system, complemented by standard features like the continuously adaptive damping system ADS PLUS and the enhanced AIRMATIC full air suspension, delivers an unprecedented level of ride comfort in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
Interior: A Sanctuary of Calm and Sophistication
The interior of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is designed as a sanctuary of calm and sophisticated elegance. Its clear architectural lines and horizontal elements create a sense of spaciousness and solidity. The fluid, sensuous design language is executed with high-quality materials, seamlessly blending elegance with functionality. The interior of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz prioritizes ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness, setting new benchmarks for luxury car interiors.
The harmonious use of materials and colors creates an exclusive ambiance within the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz. Extensive wood trim adorns the dashboard and center console, while metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three color shades enhance the sense of quality. Rear passengers in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz are treated with the same level of first-class luxury as those in the front. Rear seat packages offer further individualization, including a Business center console with practical amenities, catering to both comfort and convenience.
Control and Display Concept: An Elegant Command Center
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz features a revolutionary control and display concept, centered around two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in 8:3 format. These displays serve as the information hub of the vehicle, with the left display replacing the traditional instrument cluster and the right display providing intuitive control over infotainment and comfort functions. This dual-screen setup creates a modern and elegant command center, reflecting the advanced technology within the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
The design of the control and display elements in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz prioritizes ergonomics, convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add to the tactile and visual quality. New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and a favorites function with twelve memory presets. Voice entry with the Enhanced Voice Control System allows for natural language address input and control of telephone and audio systems, further enhancing user-friendliness in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
Climate Control: Creating a Personalized Atmosphere
The climate control system in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz has been comprehensively refined, focusing on performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration. Rear passengers benefit from two additional climate zones for improved thermal comfort, and a novel feature is the electric heating of armrests and center consoles, providing personalized comfort in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
The “active perfuming system,” a world-first in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz, allows for individualization of the vehicle’s interior fragrance. This system discreetly and mildly perfumes the cabin without permanently altering the interior smell or depositing fragrance molecules on surfaces, enhancing the overall sensory experience within the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
Seats: Mobile Office and Wellness Retreat
The seats in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz are engineered to be both a mobile office and a center of well-being. Featuring world-first innovations like the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation with reversing fans, the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz elevates seating and climatic comfort to new heights. Rear seats receive particular attention, with options including an Executive seat offering a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a world-first, utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest and an integrated warming function, offering six massage programs, some incorporating heat. Active seat ventilation in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz uses reversing fans to quickly draw cooler air onto the seat surface upon activation, rapidly reducing surface temperature. Four seat variants are available, with luxury and reclining seat options featuring redesigned adjustment kinematics to optimize legroom and seat reference points. The Executive Rear Seat Package in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz provides the largest backrest inclination in the luxury segment, reaching 43.5 degrees, and includes a calf support and heel rest for unparalleled resting comfort.
Multimedia Features: A Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new generation of multimedia system debuts in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz, offering intuitive operation and rich functionality through advanced visualization and animations. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat. The Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz innovation, integrates woofers into the firewall, using the body structure as a resonance chamber, enhancing audio performance and freeing up door space.
High-end audio options developed with Burmester, including the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transform the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz into a mobile concert hall. The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass and Google Maps display, providing enhanced and engaging navigation experiences.
Body: Stability and Lightweight Design
The bodyshell of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz is engineered for maximum crash safety, exceptional rigidity for superior handling, and minimized noise and vibration levels. It utilizes a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, achieving a 50 percent improvement in lightweight index (torsional stiffness relative to weight and size) compared to its predecessor. The strategic use of aluminum, comprising over 50 percent of the body structure, combined with high-strength steel in the safety passenger cell, maintains body weight while enhancing safety and comfort. The entire outer skin, including the roof, is crafted from aluminum, showcasing advanced materials engineering in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
Intelligent Drive: Networked Senses for Enhanced Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy drives the “Intelligent Drive” systems in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz, aimed at accident avoidance and consequence mitigation. These systems rely on a network of sensors, including a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, providing 360-degree vision. Prof. Thomas Weber emphasized this comprehensive approach: “Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.” Sensor fusion, the networking of all systems, ensures comprehensive protection for all road users.
The Intelligent Drive system in the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz encompasses a range of assistance functions, from driver support and warnings to corrective actions in emergencies. Key features include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle centered in the lane.
- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, enhancing braking power.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Mitigates unintentional lane departure by braking on one side, particularly when adjacent lanes are occupied.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows for permanent high-beam use without dazzling other drivers.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Enhanced night vision with thermal imaging, pedestrian and animal detection, and spotlight function.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver attentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, providing fatigue warnings and navigation to service areas.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Prevention and Enhanced Safety
Building on its pioneering PRE-SAFE® system, the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz introduces extended PRE-SAFE® functions to further enhance occupant protection and accident prevention.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions, applies vehicle brakes to minimize whiplash and secondary accident risks, and deploys PRE-SAFE® measures pre-impact.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt release to reduce chest pressure in frontal collisions, mitigating injury severity.
Setting Rear Seat Safety Standards
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz extends its safety focus to rear seat passengers with innovations like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender automatically extends and retracts for easier buckling and reduced belt slack. The beltbag, an inflatable seatbelt strap, lessens ribcage strain in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard with Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining under the seat belt in reclined positions, ensuring enhanced safety in the rear of the 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing:
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup offered a range of models to suit diverse preferences and performance needs:
- MY2015 S550: $94,400
- MY2015 S550 4MATIC: $97,400
- MY2015 S600: $166,900
- MY2015 S63 AMG 4MATIC: $141,450
- MY2015 S65 AMG: $222,000
The MY2016 Mercedes-Maybach S600 Sedan was also announced, positioned around $200,000, further expanding the ultra-luxury offerings.
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz 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 dimming zones
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package
Optional enhancements for the 2015 S 550 included:
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension
- ENERGIZING massage function seats
- Rear Seat Package with advanced comfort and safety features
- Warmth & Comfort Package for enhanced climate control
- New generation Driver Assistance Package
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning and Competition:
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S 550 and S 600 models represented the pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand, embodying industry-leading luxury, refined interiors, and innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety. The main competitors in this segment included the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS, all vying for supremacy in the luxury sedan market.
Key Safety Feature Highlights:
The 2015 S 550 Mercedes-Benz boasted 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
- Night View Assist PLUS
- PRE-SAFE PLUS® for rear-end collision
- PRE-SAFE Brake® with Pedestrian Recognition
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Model Lineup at a Glance:
| S550 | S550 4MATIC | S600 | Mercedes-Maybach S600 | S63 AMG 4MATIC | S65 AMG | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $94,400 | $97,400 | $166,900 | “around $200k” | $141,450 | $222,000 |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | 17/26/20 | 16/26/19 | 12/21/15 | TBD | 15/23/18 | 13/20/15 |
| Engine | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo | 6.0L V12 Bi-turbo |
| Performance | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque | 449 hp / 516 lb.-ft. torque | 523 hp / 612 lb.-ft. torque | 523 hp / 612 lb.-ft. torque | 577 hp / 664 lb.-ft. torque | 621 hp / 738 lb.-ft. torque |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec. | 4.8 sec. | 4.5 sec. | 5.0 sec. | 3.9 sec. | 4.2 sec. |
| Drive | RWD | AWD | RWD | RWD | AWD | RWD |
| Transmission | 7-Spd Auto | 7-Spd Auto | 7-Spd Auto | 7-Spd Auto | 7-Spd AMG MCT | 7-Spd AMG PLUS |
| Dimensions | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | TBA | 206.5/83.86/58.7 | TBA |
