2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Redefining Luxury and Innovation

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long stood as the pinnacle of automotive luxury, and the 2017 model year continues this legacy with a range of enhancements and new additions. Building upon the foundation of the new-generation S-Class introduced in 2015, the 2017 iteration refines the formula with advanced technology, expanded model choices, and unparalleled levels of comfort and performance. This model year marks a significant step forward, solidifying the S-Class’s position as the benchmark in the premium luxury segment.

One of the most notable additions for 2017 is the expansion of the Maybach sub-brand with the introduction of the Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC. Joining the already iconic Maybach S600, the S550 4MATIC offers the quintessential Maybach luxury experience combined with the robust performance of a 4.7L V8 biturbo engine and the all-weather confidence of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. This new variant broadens the appeal of the Maybach name, making its unique blend of opulence and technology accessible to a wider audience.

Further enhancing the driving experience across the S-Class range, the 2017 models of the S550 and S550 4MATIC benefit from the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz developed 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. This advanced transmission replaces the previous 7G-TRONIC, bringing with it improvements in both comfort and efficiency. The 9G-TRONIC is not only lighter, contributing to overall vehicle agility, but also delivers faster gear changes and smoother shifts, ensuring a seamless and refined driving experience in all conditions. Paired with the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive system in the S550 4MATIC Sedan, the S-Class is prepared to handle diverse road conditions with grace and poise.

Adding to the sense of innovation and luxury, a new option for 2017 is MAGIC SKY CONTROL®, a panoramic roof that offers an unprecedented level of customization. With the touch of a button, occupants can transition the roof between transparent and opaque, allowing for personalized control of cabin ambiance and light. Importantly, front and rear seat passengers have individual control over their respective roof sections, catering to the diverse preferences of everyone in the vehicle.

Elevated Connectivity and Digital Integration

Mercedes-Benz has consistently been at the forefront of automotive technology, and the 2017 S-Class further exemplifies this leadership with significant upgrades to its connectivity features. Building on its pioneering work in automotive emergency calling, Mercedes-Benz has upgraded its mbrace Connected Car Services. The new mbrace Connect package becomes standard across all 2017 S-Class models, accompanied by five years of complimentary service. This comprehensive package includes a suite of digital services designed to enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. Features such as Mobile App integration, Web Services, Roadside Connection, MB Apps (non-streaming), Vehicle Homepage (for EVs), Diagnostics Data, and Remote Update are all included for five years, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing long-term value and a seamless digital ownership experience. The S-Class is also among the Mercedes models to feature a Remote Start function as part of mbrace Connect, accessible conveniently through the mbrace Mobile App, adding another layer of convenience for owners.

For those seeking even more advanced connectivity features, Mercedes-Benz offers three mbrace subscription upgrade packages: mbrace® Secure, mbrace® Concierge, and mbrace® Entertain. These packages provide expanded safety, personalized assistance, and enhanced entertainment options, allowing owners to tailor their connectivity experience to their specific needs. Furthermore, voice clarity is improved with the introduction of new HD Voice for compatible mobile devices. For vehicles equipped with COMAND®, SiriusXM® Traffic & Weather is now included as standard for five years, extended from the previous three-year offering, providing real-time traffic and weather updates directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

A Diverse Lineup Catering to Discerning Tastes

The 2017 S-Class Sedan lineup is designed to cater to the diverse preferences of luxury car buyers, offering seven distinct models, each with its unique powertrain and characteristics:

• S550e Plug-in Hybrid: Representing Mercedes-Benz’s foray into electrified luxury, the S550e combines a hybrid 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with a 132kW electric motor. This powertrain delivers a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, achieving up to 58 MPGe in Hybrid Mode. The S550e is available nationwide at participating dealers, marking a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable luxury.

• S550: The core of the S-Class range, the S550 is powered by a direct-injection 4.6L V8 biturbo engine producing 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and stability.

• S600: Embodying traditional luxury and power, the S600 features a potent 6.0L V12 biturbo engine with 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque, delivering effortless performance and refinement.

• Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC: Expanding the Maybach family, this model combines a 4.7L biturbo V8 engine with 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque with a stretched 132.5-inch wheelbase, emphasizing rear passenger space and comfort.

• Mercedes-Maybach S600: The flagship of the Maybach lineup, the S600 boasts a 6.0L biturbo V12 engine with 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque, complemented by the extended 132.5-inch wheelbase and an unparalleled level of bespoke luxury.

• S63 AMG 4MATIC: For driving enthusiasts, the S63 AMG 4MATIC delivers exhilarating performance with its handbuilt AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine producing 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, coupled with AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC® all-wheel drive.

• S65 AMG: Representing the ultimate in AMG performance and luxury, the S65 AMG is powered by a handbuilt AMG 6.0L biturbo V12 engine with 621 hp and a staggering 738 lb-ft of torque, delivering breathtaking acceleration and handling.

S550e: Pioneering Plug-in Hybrid Technology

The 2017 S550e holds the distinction of being the first plug-in hybrid model from Mercedes-Benz, heralding a new era of efficient luxury. Initially launched in California in the spring of 2015, the S550e became available nationwide for the 2017 model year, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to expanding its eco-conscious offerings. The S550e seamlessly integrates a hybrid 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with a powerful 132kW electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This sophisticated powertrain enables impressive performance, achieving a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 5.2 seconds, while also providing ample power for effortless merging and passing maneuvers.

Despite its performance capabilities, the S550e also excels in fuel efficiency, achieving EPA fuel economy estimates of 54 city / 63 highway MPGe. Furthermore, it offers a substantial all-electric driving range, capable of reaching speeds up to 80 mph in full electric mode for moderate distances. The lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in approximately 2.5 hours, offering convenient recharging options.

The S550e provides drivers with a choice of four distinct operating modes, allowing for customizable driving experiences tailored to different situations:

• HYBRID: The default and most efficient operating mode, seamlessly blending electric and gasoline power for optimal fuel economy and performance.

• E-MODE: Prioritizes all-electric driving, utilizing battery power alone at speeds up to 80 mph, with an estimated electric range.

• E-SAVE: Maintains the battery’s state of charge, reserving electric power for later use, such as in urban environments or zero-emission zones.

• CHARGE: Actively charges the battery while driving, utilizing the gasoline engine to replenish the electric power supply.

To further maximize driving efficiency, the S550e incorporates a suite of intelligent technologies. A haptic accelerator pedal provides tactile feedback, increasing resistance to alert the driver to the limit of electric driving; pressing beyond this point engages the gasoline engine. The radar-based regenerative braking system intelligently recaptures energy from the wheels during braking and deceleration, adapting to traffic conditions using onboard radar systems. S550e models equipped with DISTRONIC PLUS benefit from an enhanced radar-based regenerative braking system, leveraging the DISTRONIC PLUS radar to anticipate traffic flow even further ahead. The Radar-Based Regenerative Braking System also features a “Sailing” function, decoupling the transmission from the powertrain to allow the car to coast freely, further enhancing efficiency.

The S550e’s Route-Based Battery Optimization Strategy leverages data from the COMAND® navigation system to optimize electric driving and regenerative braking based on route information, such as downhill gradients and highway versus city driving. Even without active route guidance, the Predictive Operation Strategy analyzes the road ahead for up to four miles to enhance efficiency proactively. Smartphone integration further extends the S550e experience, with the vehicle homepage providing battery charge status, remote climate control activation, and range-on-map information. In California, the S550e is eligible for an HOV Green Clean Air sticker, offering access to carpool lanes and further incentives for eco-conscious drivers.

Mercedes-Maybach: Modern Luxury with Timeless Grandeur

The Maybach name, synonymous with ultimate luxury, returned to the Mercedes-Benz lineup for the 2017 model year with an expanded offering. Building upon the heritage of the standalone Maybach brand from 2002-2012, the Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC and S600 evoke the grandeur of coachbuilt luxury automobiles from the 1920s and 1930s. Drawing inspiration from a time when both Mercedes-Benz and Maybach were purveyors of elite automobiles, the modern Maybach models deliver unparalleled levels of space, comfort, and bespoke personalization.

The Mercedes-Maybach S600, based on the S-Class platform but riding on a significantly extended 132.5-inch wheelbase and measuring just under 215 inches in overall length, represents the pinnacle of S-Class luxury. Standard features include MAGIC BODY CONTROL®, which uses a forward stereo camera to “read” the road surface and proactively adjust the suspension for upcoming bumps, ensuring an incredibly smooth and composed ride. The full suite of Intelligent Drive technologies is also standard, providing advanced safety and driver assistance features.

The substantial 7.9-inch increase in wheelbase compared to the standard S-Class directly benefits rear-seat passengers, providing limousine-like legroom. Standard Executive seats in the rear offer extensive recline functionality, and a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system provides a first-class entertainment experience. For the ultimate in indulgence, passengers can enjoy champagne cooled in the available rear console refrigerator, served in standard Robbe & Berking silver-plated flutes. The interior appointments evoke the ambiance of a custom-built private jet cabin, with exquisite finishes including hand-stitched Nappa leather, fine wood trim, and discreet chrome accents. Available foldout tables further enhance the aircraft-themed luxury, providing practical surfaces for dining or conducting business on the move.

The Mercedes-Maybach S600’s 523-horsepower 6.0L V12 biturbo engine delivers jet-like thrust with remarkable silence, as the cabin is engineered to be among the quietest in the world. Even minor operational sounds, such as seatbelts unwinding, have been meticulously silenced. This serene environment provides the ideal setting to appreciate the standard Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system, which utilizes 24 speakers, including ceiling-mounted surround speakers and rotating, illuminated tweeters, to create an immersive audio experience.

The Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC offers a slightly different approach to Maybach luxury, featuring a 4.7L V8 biturbo engine and the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides smooth shifts, consistent power delivery, and enhanced efficiency. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensures that this ultimate luxury sedan can confidently handle challenging road conditions.

Exterior Design: Modern Grandeur

The 2017 S-Class embodies a design language that is both timeless and contemporary. Parked alongside its esteemed predecessors, the S-Class lineage is immediately apparent, yet the new model asserts its own distinct sense of elegance and modernity. The exterior proportions are classic luxury sedan, characterized by a long hood, a flowing, coupe-inspired roofline, and a gently sloping rear deck. A subtle character line gracefully descends from the front to the rear, while another rises from the rocker area through the rear door, creating a sense of dynamic motion. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel adds further emphasis to the car’s athletic stance.

The new-generation S-Class marked a technological milestone as the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, utilizing nearly 500 LEDs for all exterior and interior illumination. Depending on the specific equipment, this includes:

• Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs per headlamp, providing exceptional illumination and distinctive lighting signatures.
• Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs per tail light (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp), enhancing visibility and contributing to the car’s sophisticated rear design.
• Interior (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs, creating a customizable and luxurious cabin ambiance.

Visibility and safety are further enhanced by advanced assistance systems such as Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist® PLUS, both of which received key upgrades in the S-Class. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, the S-Class achieves 360-degree all-around vision, improving its ability to detect potential hazards on the road compared to previous generations.

Interior: Ultra-Quiet Comfort and Craftsmanship

The interior of the 2017 S-Class is a sanctuary of ultra-quiet comfort and meticulous craftsmanship. It seamlessly blends Mercedes-Benz’s renowned attention to functionality with an elevated sense of luxury and refinement. Ride comfort, spaciousness, and ease of use are all paramount, meeting the highest expectations of discerning customers. The coordinated use of premium materials and harmonious color palettes creates an interior that feels cohesively designed and exquisitely crafted.

Generous amounts of wood trim, available in five distinct types, adorn the dashboard and center console, adding warmth and natural beauty to the cabin. Metallized switch surfaces, offered in three different pearl-effect paint finishes, provide tactile elegance and visual sophistication.

Digital Command Center: On the Big Screens

The information center of the 2017 S-Class is dominated by two expansive 12.3-inch high-resolution TFT color displays in an 8:3 format. The left-hand display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing the driver with a wealth of relevant vehicle information in a customizable and easily digestible format. The right-hand display serves as the control hub for infotainment and comfort functions, seamlessly integrated with the COMAND® with Navigation system. This dual-screen setup creates a cohesive and intuitive interface, grouping controls and display functions logically for both aesthetic appeal and user-friendliness.

The COMAND® central controller, ergonomically positioned for easy reach, combines a touchpad with a rotary knob and direct-access keys for frequently used functions. The touchpad responds to a variety of finger gestures, including swipe, pinch, and even handwriting recognition, offering versatile input methods. Carousel-style on-screen menus mirror the rotary knob’s movement, making navigation and adjustments of vehicle features logical and intuitive.

Beyond the striking displays, the metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls exemplify the high level of quality and attention to detail throughout the S-Class interior. Each control is designed to provide a satisfying tactile feel and auditory feedback, reinforcing the sense of premium craftsmanship that defines a Mercedes-Benz.

The Enhanced Voice Control System allows drivers to input complete addresses in a single command. Telephone and audio systems can also be voice-controlled, and the system can read text messages (SMS) or emails aloud, promoting safer and more convenient operation.

Seats: Ultimate Comfort and Mobile Office Capability

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been recognized as a benchmark for premium seating comfort, and the 2017 model year upholds this tradition with advanced seat technology and design. Mercedes-Benz pioneered seat-shaped power seat controls over three decades ago, a feature that has become widely adopted across the industry.

In the 2017 S-Class, the latest iteration of these controls is elegantly integrated into the door panel trim, resembling sculpted pieces. These controls manage the standard 16-way power adjustment, including cushion length and 4-way power lumbar support, allowing for highly personalized seating positions. A memory system for each front seat can store and recall three personalized seat positions at the touch of a button. The driver-seat memory also includes adjustments for the power steering column and side mirror positions. Standard seat heating with automatic timed step-down provides soothing and controlled warmth in cooler weather.

The available Premium Package elevates seating comfort even further with ultimate seat ventilation and massage functions. The ENERGIZING massage function, based on the hot-stone principle, was a world-first innovation. This unique system utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, along with an integrated warming function, to deliver a range of massage programs. Six massage programs are available, including two that incorporate the warming function, and this feature is also available for the rear seats, ensuring supreme comfort for all occupants.

Another innovation is the active seat ventilation system with reversing fans. When ventilation is activated, cooler ambient air is initially drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing the temperature of a heated-up seat. After four minutes, the fans automatically switch to blower mode to minimize drafts, maintaining optimal comfort.

The S-Class line offers a choice of four different rear seat configurations. Unlike conventional trailing backrest designs, the S-Class reclining rear backrest is adjusted independently, preserving legroom and seat cushion position. The cushion angle and horizontal position can also be adjusted separately, allowing for a high degree of customization.

The Executive Rear Seat Package, positioned behind the front passenger seat, offers a maximum backrest angle of 43.5 degrees, the most generous recline in the luxury segment. The reclining seat includes a calf support that is adjustable for length and angle. Combined with a heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat in front and an additional comfort cushion, this feature provides exceptional resting comfort, ideal for long journeys or chauffeured transportation.

The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS adds a rear center console that seamlessly extends from the front console, creating a unified and luxurious cabin environment. It incorporates thermo cup holders that utilize Peltier technology to cool or warm beverages. The center console also features two tables that can be easily folded out or stowed away with one hand, providing convenient work surfaces or dining trays.

Climate Control: Enhanced Comfort and Well-being

The S-Class tradition of introducing innovative technologies extends to cabin climate control. Mercedes-Benz focused on refining every aspect, including precise temperature regulation, noise reduction, and enhanced comfort features.

The automatic climate control system in the rear offers two additional zones, allowing for personalized temperature settings for rear passengers. Electric heating for the armrests and center consoles is a trendsetting feature in the luxury category, providing localized warmth for enhanced comfort in cold weather. The S-Class also introduced the AIR-BALANCE package, which further improves ionization and filtration compared to the standard system, and includes perfume atomization for a personalized in-cabin scent experience.

The active perfuming system was a world-first innovation, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s deep understanding of the desires of premium luxury customers. This system allows for individualization of the vehicle’s interior scent. Drivers and passengers have full control, able to switch the system on and off and adjust the intensity manually. The fragrance is designed to be subtle and dissipate quickly, without permanently altering the interior scent or leaving residue on fabrics or clothing.

Mobile Concert Hall: Immersive Audio Experiences

The 2017 S-Class debuted a new generation multimedia system featuring intuitive operation and advanced visualization and animation features. The multi-user system allows independent access to entertainment media sources from any seat, ensuring personalized entertainment for all occupants.

The innovative Frontbass system, initially introduced by Mercedes-Benz in the SL coupe/roadster, is utilized across all S-Class audio systems. In the Frontbass system, woofers are integrated into the firewall, utilizing the space within the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber. This design eliminates the need for conventional woofers in the doors, improving the soundstage and freeing up additional storage space in the door panels. The higher placement of mid-range speakers in the doors further enhances the audio experience.

Germany’s Burmester®, renowned for handcrafted high-end home audio systems, developed bespoke surround-sound systems specifically tailored to the S-Class. The standard system features 13 speakers and a 590-watt 9-channel digital amplifier, delivering pure digital surround sound and seamlessly compensating for ambient noise. Exquisitely detailed aluminum speaker grilles are as visually appealing as the system’s audio performance is to discerning listeners.

The available Burmester® 3D surround sound system (standard on select models) represents the pinnacle of mobile high-end audio. It combines a 1,520-watt amplifier and a total of 24 speakers, including a trunk-mounted subwoofer with its own 400-watt amplifier, ceiling-mounted surround speakers, and rotating, illuminated tweeters. The system offers four preset listening modes, allowing for customized audio experiences.

Body Structure: Foundation for Safety and Performance

The S-Class body structure and safety passenger cell are constructed using a combination of aluminum and high-strength steels, while the entire outer skin is crafted from aluminum. The extensive use of aluminum is made possible through the utilization of a comprehensive range of semi-finished products, including casting, extrusion, and sheet metal. This lightweight yet robust construction contributes to both safety and vehicle dynamics.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL®: Suspension with “Eyes”

The S-Class has long been a leader in balancing ride comfort and agile handling. The AIRMATIC full air suspension system, introduced in the S-Class 15 years prior, has been continuously refined with each new generation. Standard equipment on the 2017 S-Class includes the continuously operating Adaptive Damping System (ADS® PLUS) and an enhanced version of the AIRMATIC® full air suspension system.

However, the optional MAGIC BODY CONTROL® system represents the ultimate in ride comfort technology. It made the S-Class the world’s first car to utilize ROAD SURFACE SCAN, a system that detects road bumps ahead and proactively adjusts the suspension to mitigate their impact. The system utilizes input from the same stereo camera that powers the car’s numerous Intelligent Drive features. The result is a ride quality that feels almost magical, effectively negating the impact of road imperfections for both the driver and passengers.

Intelligent Drive: Seamlessly Merging Safety and Comfort

For decades, the Mercedes S-Class has served as a benchmark not only for the luxury category but also for the automotive industry as a whole. Many safety technologies and luxury features have debuted on S-Class models before being adopted by other Mercedes models and vehicles from other brands.

Mercedes-Benz has been instrumental in paving the path towards autonomous mobility, pioneering technologies such as PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS®, which seamlessly blend safety and convenience. The current E-Class Sedan and Wagon introduced a further array of advanced technologies, including DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, collectively known as Intelligent Drive. These technologies have been further refined and enhanced for the 2017 S-Class. The new functions rely on a stereo camera working in concert with multistage radar sensors.

A key element of Intelligent Drive is the networking of all systems, a concept safety experts refer to as “sensor fusion.” The overarching goal is to provide comprehensive protection, not only for Mercedes-Benz occupants but also for other road users.

The support functions offered by Intelligent Drive range from assisting the driver and enhancing comfort to providing visual, acoustic, and tactile warnings and actively intervening to support driver reactions. Certain systems are even capable of taking corrective action in emergencies, such as autonomous emergency braking to prevent accidents or lessen their severity. Here is a summary of the new and enhanced assistance systems in the 2017 S-Class:

• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS (standard): Radar-based technology warns the driver if they are approaching a vehicle ahead, or even certain stationary objects, at a speed and distance that suggest a collision is likely. If the driver initiates braking, Adaptive Brake Assist automatically provides the ideal level of braking force to help prevent a collision or reduce its severity. The system can also autonomously initiate braking from speeds up to 65 mph and can activate PRE-SAFE® features if deemed necessary.

• DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing driver workload, especially on long journeys.

• Brake Assist system BAS® PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Utilizing the stereo camera, this system can detect crossing traffic and pedestrians, boosting the braking power applied by the driver as needed to avoid or mitigate collisions.

• Active Lane Keeping Assist: If lane markings are broken lines, this system can detect when the adjacent lane is occupied, particularly by oncoming traffic, and reduce the risk of unintentional lane departure by applying braking force to one side of the vehicle.

• Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows the high-beam headlamps to remain on continuously without dazzling other drivers by selectively masking out other vehicles from the high-beam light cone.

• Night View Assist® PLUS: Further improved and enhanced with a thermal imaging camera. Night View Assist PLUS can alert the driver to pedestrians or animals in unlit areas ahead by automatically switching the instrument cluster display to a clear night view image and highlighting potential hazards. A spotlight function can flash detected pedestrians, attracting the driver’s attention and simultaneously warning the pedestrian.

• ATTENTION ASSIST®: Creates a driver profile within the first 20 minutes of driving and can then warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wide speed range. It can also notify the driver of their current fatigue level, driving time since the last break, and indicate nearby service areas in the COMAND navigation system.

Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Anticipatory Safety

A decade prior, Mercedes-Benz introduced the groundbreaking PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system in the S-Class. Mercedes-Benz has continually refined this technology, further enhancing its capabilities for the 2017 S-Class. The new PRE-SAFE® functions are designed to help prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles ahead in city traffic, mitigate dangerous situations caused by rear-end collisions, and enhance the protection offered by seat belts.

• PRE-SAFE® Brake: Can also detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous emergency braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 31 mph.

• PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Can recognize an imminent rear-end collision and can firmly apply the stationary vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by the impact. This action can also help to reduce the risk of secondary accidents. Immediately before impact, PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, including reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.

• PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Intelligently releases tension on the occupants’ seat belts in a controlled manner to reduce the pressure on the body during a frontal collision. This can significantly reduce the risk and severity of injuries.

Setting New Standards for Rear Passenger Safety

Mercedes-Benz has further extended safety systems for rear seat passengers with features like the seat belt buckle extender, the beltbag, and the cushionbag. The first two of these innovations are included in the optional Rear Seat Package. The illuminated seat belt buckle extender uses an electric motor to automatically extend and retract the belt buckle, improving ease of use. Additionally, it can reduce belt slack in the pelvic and thorax areas, ensuring passengers are more securely restrained.

The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap designed to reduce the risk of injury to rear passengers in a frontal collision by lessening the strain on the ribcage. The Executive Rear Seat Package and Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS are equipped with a cushionbag under the seat cushion upholstery as standard. When the seat is reclined, the cushionbag prevents the occupant from sliding beneath the seat belt (“submarining”) in an accident. This innovative feature allows Mercedes-Benz to design comfortable reclining seats that offer a higher level of accident safety than seats with conventional trailing backrests.

AMG Performance: Unrivaled Driving Dynamics

For driving enthusiasts seeking ultimate performance, the 2017 Mercedes-AMG lineup offers two exceptional models: the S63 4MATIC with a biturbo V8 and AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC®, and the S65 with a biturbo V12 and rear-wheel drive. In the AMG S63 4MATIC, a hand-built AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine generates 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, delivering breathtaking acceleration and dynamic handling. The hand-built AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine in the S65 produces a peak output of 621 hp and a massive 738 lb-ft of maximum torque, providing unparalleled power and refinement.

Both the S63 and S65 models are equipped with standard 20-inch forged AMG® multi-spoke alloy wheels (8.5” x 20” front and 9.5” x 20” rear) shod with 255/40 R20 front and 285/35R20 rear high-performance tires. The high-performance compound brake system features large 15.4-inch compound discs with six-piston fixed calipers at the front and 14.1-inch integral discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear, providing exceptional stopping power. An optional AMG high-performance Carbon Ceramic braking system is available for both AMG models, offering even greater stopping power and reduced unsprung weight, featuring 15.8” discs up front with six-piston fixed calipers and 14.2-inch discs at the rear with single-piston floating calipers. The carbon ceramic system reduces unsprung weight by 40 percent compared to a conventional steel setup, further enhancing handling agility.

The AMG models boast an exclusive and aggressive AMG look, with AMG-design lower bodywork and a distinctive front end featuring large, functional mesh air intakes and airflow-channeling winglets. These winglets are accented by a chrome splitter, a design element echoed in the flared side sills and sculpted rear apron, whose diffuser frames the quad trapezoidal exhaust tips.

Exclusive AMG sports seats ensure optimal long-distance comfort and support. Electric adjustment, memory function, seat heating, and climate control are standard features. The contoured seat cushions and backrests provide enhanced lateral support during spirited cornering.

AMG S63: Performance Engineered

The high-performance, hand-built engine in the S63 is paired with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 7-speed sports transmission, AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension, AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, and the AMG high-performance compound brake system, creating a cohesive and dynamic driving experience.

The AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension is engineered to excel in diverse driving environments, from racetracks to city streets, highways, and back roads. AMG-specific calibration of the AIRMATIC® air suspension delivers highly responsive handling and cornering capabilities, while maintaining a balance of comfort and control. Specific front-axle kinematics, including increased camber and anti-roll bar thickness, work in conjunction with a stiffer rear-axle subframe to enhance agility and precision.

Integrated into the AIRMATIC® air suspension, the Adaptive Damping System (ADS PLUS) continuously optimizes ride and handling by automatically selecting one of four damping profiles for each spring-strut every time a wheel changes direction. The electronically controlled damping instantly adapts to reduce body roll, pitch, and dive, while also providing automatic 4-wheel level control. Selectable Comfort and Sport modes allow the driver to tailor handling response and ride firmness to their preferences.

AMG S65: V12 Power and MAGIC BODY CONTROL®

The hand-built AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine in the AMG S65 is matched with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC sports transmission, AMG Active Sport Suspension (based on ABC Active Body Control), AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, and the AMG high-performance compound brake system.

The S65 AMG features AMG-specific calibration of the industry-leading MAGIC BODY CONTROL® suspension, delivering an unparalleled blend of responsive handling, comfort, and control. MAGIC BODY CONTROL® utilizes ROAD SURFACE SCAN to detect road imperfections ahead and proactively adjust the suspension, creating a remarkably smooth ride. The system receives input from the same stereo camera that powers the car’s Intelligent Drive features. Comfort and Sport modes allow for driver-selected handling characteristics, while automatic 4-wheel level control maintains a consistent ride height. Curve mode, selectable as one of three drive modes, activates a curve-tilting function, further enhancing cornering composure.

Conclusion: The 2017 Mercedes-benz S-class – A Continued Legacy of Excellence

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands as a testament to continuous innovation and refinement in the luxury automotive segment. From the expanded Maybach lineup and the introduction of the efficient 9G-TRONIC transmission to the advancements in connectivity and safety technologies, the 2017 S-Class elevates the standards of luxury, performance, and technological sophistication. Whether opting for the eco-conscious S550e plug-in hybrid, the opulent Maybach variants, the thrilling AMG performance models, or any of the core S-Class sedans, owners are guaranteed an unparalleled driving and ownership experience. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class not only maintains its position as the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand but also continues to redefine what it means to be a leader in the world of luxury automobiles. Explore the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to discover the pinnacle of automotive excellence.