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

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2017 model year marked another pinnacle in automotive engineering and luxury. Building upon its legacy as the flagship sedan for Mercedes-Benz, the 2017 S-Class introduced advancements in technology, comfort, and performance, solidifying its position as a leader in the premium luxury category. This model year brought notable updates and expanded the S-Class lineup, offering discerning drivers an even wider range of choices to meet their individual preferences.

Unveiling the 2017 S-Class Innovations

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to represent the zenith of automotive excellence. For this model year, several key enhancements were introduced, further elevating the driving experience and solidifying the S-Class’s reputation for innovation.

One of the most significant updates for the standard S550 and S550 4MATIC models was the implementation of the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. This advanced transmission replaced the previous 7G-TRONIC, offering a smoother, more efficient, and more responsive driving experience. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is not only lighter, contributing to overall vehicle efficiency, but also provides quicker gear changes and almost imperceptible shifts, enhancing driving comfort and performance. The pairing of the 9G-TRONIC with the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive in the S550 4MATIC further ensured confident handling and stability across a diverse range of driving conditions, making the 2017 S-Class a capable performer in various climates and terrains.

Alt text: The advanced Mercedes-Benz 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, enhancing the 2017 S-Class driving experience with efficiency and smooth gear changes.

Another exciting new feature for the 2017 S-Class was the optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL®. This innovative panoramic roof system offered occupants the ability to adjust the roof transparency at the touch of a button. Using electrochromic technology, the glass roof could transition from transparent to opaque, providing customized levels of sunlight and privacy. Importantly, both front and rear passengers had individual control over their respective roof sections, allowing for personalized comfort within the cabin. This feature underscored the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class commitment to passenger comfort and cutting-edge technology.

Alt text: The innovative MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic roof option on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, offering adjustable transparency for personalized cabin ambiance and light control.

Enhanced Connectivity with mbrace®

Staying connected was further emphasized in the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class with significant upgrades to the mbrace® Connected Car Services. Building on Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering role in automotive emergency calling, the mbrace® system was enhanced, making the new mbrace® Connect package standard across all models. This comprehensive package included five years of complimentary service and provided a suite of digital features including:

Mobile App: Remote access to vehicle functions and information.
Web Services: Online access to vehicle information and services.
Roadside Connection: Direct access to Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance.
MB Apps (non-streaming): Access to select Mercedes-Benz applications.
Vehicle Homepage (EVs): Dedicated portal for electric vehicle information (relevant for the S550e).
Diagnostics Data: Vehicle health monitoring and diagnostics.
Remote Update: Over-the-air software updates for vehicle systems.

The inclusion of Remote Start as part of mbrace® Connect, accessible via the mbrace® Mobile App, added further convenience for 2017 S-Class owners, particularly in varying weather conditions.

Beyond the standard package, customers could also choose from three optional mbrace® subscription upgrade packages: mbrace® Secure, mbrace® Concierge, and mbrace® Entertain, offering enhanced security features, personalized concierge services, and expanded entertainment options respectively. Furthermore, the 2017 S-Class benefited from new HD Voice technology for compatible mobile devices, improving call clarity. For models equipped with COMAND®, SiriusXM® Traffic & Weather was included as standard for five years, providing real-time traffic and weather updates directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

A Diverse Lineup of 2017 S-Class Models

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup catered to a wide spectrum of luxury car buyers, offering seven distinct models, each with its unique powertrain and features:

S550e Plug-in Hybrid: Representing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable luxury, the S550e combined a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with a 132kW electric motor. This hybrid powertrain delivered a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive performance alongside enhanced fuel efficiency, achieving up to 58 MPGe in Hybrid Mode. The S550e marked Mercedes-Benz’s first plug-in hybrid in the S-Class range and was available nationwide.
S550: The core of the S-Class range, the S550 featured a potent direct-injection 4.6L V8 biturbo engine producing 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4MATIC all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction and control.
S600: For those seeking ultimate power, the S600 housed a formidable 6.0L V12 biturbo engine, generating 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. This model represented the pinnacle of traditional S-Class power and refinement.
Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC: Expanding the ultra-luxury Maybach sub-brand, the Maybach S550 4MATIC offered an extended wheelbase and heightened levels of opulence. It was powered by a 4.7L biturbo V8 engine producing 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, combined with standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Mercedes-Maybach S600: The flagship of the Maybach range, the S600 Maybach featured the same extended wheelbase as the S550 Maybach and was equipped with the commanding 6.0L biturbo V12 engine, delivering 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. This model represented the ultimate expression of Maybach luxury and performance within the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class family.
S63 AMG 4MATIC: For performance enthusiasts, the S63 AMG 4MATIC delivered exhilarating power and handling. It was powered by a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, producing 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, coupled with AMG PERFORMANCE 4MATIC® all-wheel drive for optimal traction and dynamic performance.
S65 AMG: The ultimate performance variant, the S65 AMG, boasted a handcrafted AMG 6.0L biturbo V12 engine, generating a staggering 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. This model delivered unmatched power and AMG-tuned dynamics, solidifying its position as the performance flagship of the 2017 S-Class lineup.

The Pioneering S550e Plug-in Hybrid

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550e held a significant place in the S-Class lineage as the first plug-in hybrid model. Launched initially in California in the spring of 2015, it became available nationwide for the 2017 model year. The S550e seamlessly integrated a hybrid 3.0L V6 biturbo engine and a potent 132kW electric motor, achieving a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain configuration allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, while also delivering exceptional fuel economy.

Alt text: The innovative Mercedes-Benz S550e Plug-in Hybrid model of the 2017 S-Class, showcasing its commitment to fuel efficiency and performance with hybrid technology.

The S550e, utilizing a 7-speed automatic transmission, achieved impressive EPA fuel economy ratings of 54 city / 63 highway MPGe and offered an all-electric driving range for shorter commutes, capable of reaching speeds up to 80 mph in electric mode. The lithium-ion battery could be fully recharged in approximately 2.5 hours, offering convenient charging options.

Drivers of the S550e could select from four distinct operating modes to optimize efficiency and driving style:

HYBRID: The default mode, intelligently managing both engine and electric motor for optimal efficiency.
E-MODE: Prioritizing all-electric driving, utilizing battery power only up to 80 mph with an estimated 12-mile range.
E-SAVE: Maintaining the battery’s charge level for later use in electric-only mode, ideal for city driving after highway commutes.
CHARGE: Utilizing the gasoline engine to actively charge the battery while driving, providing flexibility in energy management.

Further enhancing efficiency, the S550e incorporated technologies like a haptic accelerator pedal, providing feedback to the driver to optimize electric driving, and a radar-based regenerative braking system, recapturing energy during braking and deceleration. Models equipped with DISTRONIC PLUS benefited from an enhanced radar-based regenerative braking system, leveraging the DISTRONIC PLUS radar to anticipate traffic conditions and optimize energy recuperation. The Sailing function further improved efficiency by decoupling the transmission from the powertrain during coasting.

The S550e also featured Route-Based Battery Optimization Strategy, analyzing navigation data to optimize electric driving and regenerative braking based on route characteristics. Predictive Operation Strategy analyzed road conditions up to four miles ahead to further enhance efficiency even without active navigation. Smartphone integration allowed drivers to monitor battery charge status, remotely control climate control, and view range information. In California, the S550e qualified for an HOV Green Clean Air sticker, offering access to carpool lanes.

Mercedes-Maybach: The Pinnacle of Grandeur

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup included the prestigious Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand, representing the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity. Expanding on the legacy of Maybach, the 2017 model year offered both the Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC and S600, evoking the grandeur of classic coachbuilt luxury automobiles.

Alt text: The opulent interior of a Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, exemplifying the ultimate luxury and craftsmanship available in the 2017 S-Class range.

Based on the S-Class platform but with a significantly extended 132.5-inch wheelbase, the Mercedes-Maybach models offered unparalleled rear passenger space and comfort. The Mercedes-Maybach S600, measuring just under 215 inches in overall length, came standard with MAGIC BODY CONTROL®, utilizing a stereo camera to scan the road ahead and proactively adjust the suspension for an exceptionally smooth ride. The full suite of Intelligent Drive technologies was also standard.

The extended wheelbase directly benefited rear passengers, who enjoyed reclining Executive seats, a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system, and optional features like a rear console refrigerator and handcrafted Robbe & Berking silver-plated champagne flutes. The interior finishes rivaled those of private jets, featuring hand-stitched Nappa leather, fine wood trim, and subtle chrome accents. Available foldout tables added another aircraft-inspired touch, enhancing practicality and luxury.

The Mercedes-Maybach S600’s 6.0L V12 biturbo engine delivered near-silent, jet-like thrust, as the cabin was engineered to be the world’s quietest car cabin. Noise reduction extended to operational sounds, creating an environment of unparalleled tranquility. The standard Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system with 24 speakers, including ceiling-mounted surround speakers and rotating, illuminated tweeters, provided an immersive audio experience.

The Mercedes-Maybach S550 4MATIC offered a 4.7L V8 biturbo engine paired with the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, combining luxury with all-weather capability.

Timeless Design and Modern Aesthetics

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class embodied a timeless design language, blending classic luxury sedan proportions with modern elegance. Its long hood, flowing roofline, and gently sloping rear conveyed a sense of sophistication and motion. Discreet character lines and a pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel added subtle athletic cues.

Alt text: The elegant exterior design of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, showcasing its classic luxury sedan proportions and modern styling details.

Notably, the S-Class was the first vehicle in the world to eliminate traditional light bulbs entirely, utilizing nearly 500 LEDs for all lighting functions, both interior and exterior. Depending on the model and options, this included up to 56 LEDs per headlamp, 35 LEDs per taillight, and approximately 300 LEDs for interior and ambient lighting.

Advanced lighting technologies, including Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist® PLUS, were enhanced for the 2017 S-Class, improving visibility and safety. These systems, utilizing a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, provided 360-degree all-round vision and enhanced hazard detection.

Interior Sanctuary: Comfort and Technology

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class interior was meticulously crafted, blending renowned Mercedes-Benz functionality with an elevated sense of craftsmanship. The cabin prioritized ride comfort, spaciousness, and intuitive usability. The coordinated use of materials and colors created a cohesive and luxurious ambiance.

Generous use of wood trim, available in five distinct types, adorned the dashboard and center console. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes added tactile and visual refinement.

The information center was dominated by two 12.3-inch high-resolution TFT color displays in 8:3 format. The left display functioned as the instrument cluster, providing essential driving information, while the right display controlled infotainment and comfort functions via the COMAND® with Navigation system. The COMAND® system utilized a central controller with a touchpad, rotary knob, and direct-access buttons for major functions. The touchpad recognized swipe, pinch, and handwriting inputs, offering versatile control options. The Enhanced Voice Control System allowed for natural language address input and voice control of telephone and audio systems, as well as text message and email readout.

Seat Comfort and Mobile Office Capabilities

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been a benchmark for seating comfort, and the 2017 model continued this legacy. The standard 16-way power-adjustable seats, with sculpted controls integrated into the door panel trim, offered extensive customization, including cushion length and 4-way power lumbar support. Memory functions for front seats, steering column, and side mirrors were standard. Heated front seats with automatic timed step-down added further comfort in cooler climates.

Optional Premium Packages elevated seating comfort with ventilation and ENERGIZING massage functions. The ENERGIZING massage function, based on the hot-stone principle, utilized 14 individually actuated air cushions and integrated heating, offering six massage programs, including two with heat, available for both front and rear seats. The active seat ventilation system used reversing fans for rapid seat cooling and reduced drafts.

The 2017 S-Class offered a choice of four rear seat configurations. The reclining rear backrest design allowed for independent backrest adjustment without compromising legroom or seat cushion position. The Executive Rear Seat Package offered a maximum backrest angle of 43.5 degrees, a segment-leading recline, along with a calf support and heel rest for exceptional resting comfort. Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS included a rear center console with thermo cup holders and foldout tables, further enhancing the mobile office capabilities.

Advanced Climate Control and AIR-BALANCE

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued the tradition of introducing advanced climate control technologies. The automatic climate control system in the rear offered two additional zones, and electric heating for armrests and center consoles set new benchmarks in luxury comfort. The AIR-BALANCE package, available optionally, enhanced ionization and filtration compared to the standard system, and included perfume atomization. The active perfuming system allowed for personalized cabin scent, with adjustable intensity and a discreet, non-lingering fragrance.

Mobile Concert Hall: Burmester® Sound Systems

The 2017 S-Class debuted a new generation multimedia system with intuitive operation and advanced visualization features. The multi-user system allowed independent access to entertainment sources from any seat. The Frontbass system, pioneered by Mercedes-Benz, integrated woofers into the firewall, utilizing structural cavities as resonance chambers, improving sound quality and freeing up door space.

Germany’s Burmester®, renowned for high-end home audio, developed bespoke surround sound systems for the S-Class. The standard Burmester® surround sound system featured 13 speakers and a 590-watt amplifier, delivering digital surround sound with ambient noise compensation. The optional Burmester® 3D surround sound system (standard on select models) elevated the audio experience further, with 24 speakers, a 1,520-watt amplifier, ceiling-mounted surround speakers, and rotating, illuminated tweeters, creating a truly immersive mobile concert hall.

Body Structure and MAGIC BODY CONTROL®

The 2017 S-Class body structure utilized a combination of aluminum and high-strength steels, with an all-aluminum outer skin, optimizing weight and rigidity. The AIRMATIC® full air suspension system, standard equipment, included continuously operating Adaptive Damping System (ADS® PLUS).

The optional MAGIC BODY CONTROL® suspension system represented a groundbreaking innovation, using ROAD SURFACE SCAN to detect road imperfections ahead and proactively adjust the suspension. Utilizing the stereo camera also used for Intelligent Drive features, MAGIC BODY CONTROL® delivered an exceptionally smooth and controlled ride, effectively neutralizing road bumps and enhancing passenger comfort.

Intelligent Drive: Merging Safety and Comfort

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has consistently pioneered safety technologies, and the 2017 model continued this tradition with the Intelligent Drive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Building upon systems like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS®, the 2017 S-Class refined and expanded these technologies, utilizing a stereo camera and multistage radar sensors for enhanced perception and functionality.

Key assistance systems included:

COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS (standard): Radar-based system providing visual and audible warnings of potential collisions with vehicles or stationary objects ahead, initiating automatic braking if necessary.
DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, providing steering input to help maintain lane position.
Brake Assist system BAS® PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detecting crossing traffic and pedestrians, providing enhanced braking support.
Active Lane Keeping Assist: Corrective braking to prevent unintentional lane departure, particularly in the presence of oncoming traffic.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Automatically adjusting high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers.
Night View Assist® PLUS: Enhanced night vision system with pedestrian and animal detection, displaying a crisp night view image in the instrument cluster and highlighting potential hazards.
ATTENTION ASSIST®: Monitoring driver drowsiness and inattentiveness, providing warnings and suggesting breaks.

Enhanced PRE-SAFE® Protection

The 2017 S-Class featured expanded PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection, including:

PRE-SAFE® Brake: Pedestrian detection and autonomous emergency braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Rear-end collision detection, applying brakes to minimize whiplash and secondary accidents, and deploying PRE-SAFE® measures before impact.
PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt tension release to reduce chest and ribcage strain in frontal collisions.

Rear Passenger Safety Innovations

Mercedes-Benz further enhanced rear passenger safety with features like seat belt buckle extenders, beltbags (inflatable seat belts), and cushionbags (preventing submarining in reclined seats), available in optional Rear Seat Packages.

AMG Performance and Style

For driving enthusiasts, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered AMG performance models: the S63 AMG 4MATIC and S65 AMG.

Alt text: The high-performance Mercedes-AMG S63 and S65 models of the 2017 S-Class, showcasing their aggressive styling and powerful presence.

The S63 AMG 4MATIC featured a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine producing 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, paired with AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 7-speed sports transmission and AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension. The S65 AMG boasted a handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo engine with 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, utilizing AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC sports transmission and AMG Active Sport Suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL®.

Both AMG models featured distinctive AMG styling, including AMG-design lower bodywork, mesh air intakes, chrome accents, and trapezoidal exhaust tips. 20-inch forged AMG® multispoke alloy wheels and high-performance compound brakes were standard. An optional AMG high-performance Carbon Ceramic braking system was available for even greater stopping power and reduced unsprung weight. AMG sports seats provided enhanced lateral support and long-distance comfort.

The AMG Adaptive Sport Suspension in the S63 and AMG Active Sport Suspension in the S65 provided a balance of track-ready handling and comfortable ride quality, with selectable Comfort and Sport modes. The S65 AMG’s MAGIC BODY CONTROL® suspension was specifically tuned for AMG performance, further enhancing its dynamic capabilities.

Conclusion: The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Legacy

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class represented a continued commitment to luxury, innovation, and performance. With advancements like the 9G-TRONIC transmission, MAGIC SKY CONTROL®, enhanced mbrace® connectivity, and a diverse model lineup including the pioneering S550e plug-in hybrid and ultra-luxurious Maybach variants, the 2017 S-Class solidified its position as the benchmark in the premium luxury sedan segment. Its blend of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort, and refined performance ensured its continued appeal to discerning drivers worldwide. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2017 was not just a car; it was an experience, a statement, and a testament to automotive excellence.