For discerning drivers seeking unparalleled luxury and sophistication beyond the typical high-end sedan, the 2015 Mercedes S550 emerges as the definitive choice. Positioned above mainstream luxury but below the ultra-exclusive realm of brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce, the S-Class, and specifically the 2015 Mercedes S550, occupies a unique and coveted space in the automotive market. While previous iterations might have lagged in technological innovation and opulent features compared to newer competitors, the redesigned S-Class, mirroring the advancements seen in the new C-Class, reaffirms Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to leading-edge luxury and innovation. This review delves into why the 2015 Mercedes S550 is not just a car, but a statement of prestige and a testament to automotive excellence.
Exterior Elegance and Design
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineage, dating back to 1972, has consistently set the benchmark for full-size luxury vehicles. Across various body styles, from sedans to coupes and limousines, the S-Class has always been synonymous with automotive grandeur. However, the preceding generation S-Class, with its somewhat understated exterior, featuring a modest grille and headlamps, fell slightly short of the visual impact expected from this flagship model.
The 2015 Mercedes S550 marks a significant departure, embracing Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary design language, reminiscent of the CLS and CLA models. It features a more assertive grille and sharply styled headlamps, harmoniously blended with the classic Mercedes hood ornament. Maintaining its role as the preferred vehicle for dignitaries and leaders, the side profile remains stately and traditional, while the cabin subtly tapers towards the rear, offering rear occupants an enhanced panoramic view.
At the rear, the 2015 Mercedes S550 artfully combines modern Mercedes design cues with timeless S-Class elements, echoing styles from 1991 onwards, particularly in the taillight design that elegantly avoids extending onto the trunk lid. This design choice, while aesthetically refined, does slightly compromise trunk space compared to some competitors in the luxury sedan segment.
Beneath the surface, the 2015 Mercedes S550, although visually reminiscent of the W220 S-Class, is a completely re-engineered vehicle. A key innovation is its predominantly aluminum body structure, significantly reducing weight. Mercedes strategically employed aluminum to optimize weight distribution and overall lightness, resulting in the 2015 Mercedes S550 4Matic weighing in at approximately 4,600 pounds, with a near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, a notable improvement over previous models.
Interior Opulence and Technology
Mercedes-Benz adopts a measured approach to interior design evolution, and the 2015 Mercedes S550 interior reflects this philosophy. While not radically different, the cabin exudes undeniable luxury, a significant upgrade from the previous generation’s less premium feel. The test model featured an optional, nearly $6,000 premium leather package, enhancing the interior with exquisite two-tone leather and detailed piping across the dashboard and door panels. Even concealed areas of the door panels are finished in meticulously stitched leather. Laser-cut metal speaker grilles, a design element also found in the contemporary C-Class, are tastefully integrated throughout the cabin.
Interestingly, for a vehicle of its stature, the 2015 Mercedes S550 offers generous but not class-leading legroom. While substantial by European standards, it is only marginally longer than a Ford Taurus and slightly shorter than a Lincoln MKS. The front legroom measures 41.4 inches, slightly less than some American large sedans. Rear legroom is ample and supremely comfortable, especially with the optional reclining rear seats in the test vehicle. However, taller passengers might find the footrest slightly limiting. For those requiring even more space, the Mercedes-Maybach S600, with an extended wheelbase, provides significantly enhanced rear accommodations. It’s worth noting that opting for the Maybach does reduce trunk space due to features like the champagne refrigerator.
Mercedes-Maybach: Elevating Luxury
The Maybach marque was initially conceived to rival Rolls-Royce and Bentley. However, early Maybach models, essentially stretched versions of the previous S-Class with exorbitant price tags, did not achieve widespread market success. In response, Mercedes-Benz strategically rebranded Maybach, leveraging its prestige within the S-Class range. The Mercedes-Maybach S600 emerged, representing a limousine-esque variant of the S-Class. With a more modest extension and a more approachable price point compared to its predecessors, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 offers an elevated level of luxury and space within the S-Class family, though it’s not the most expensive model in the lineup; that distinction belongs to the performance-oriented S65 AMG.
Infotainment and Cutting-Edge Gadgetry
A hallmark of any luxury vehicle is its suite of advanced technology and convenience features. The 2015 Mercedes S550 excels in this regard, starting with its striking dual 12.3-inch LCD screens that dominate the dashboard. The right screen operates Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system, while the left screen displays vehicle instrumentation and night vision.
The COMAND system in the 2015 Mercedes S550 features significant upgrades, including a faster processor and enhanced functionality. The system’s responsiveness and fluid graphics are noticeably superior to previous iterations. Voice recognition has been improved, facilitating easier and more reliable voice commands for media playback. However, online functionalities, while present, are not as seamlessly integrated as systems like BMW’s iDrive or Audi’s MMI. Features like Google Earth satellite imagery and integrated streaming apps could be more refined. Additionally, the absence of dedicated track forward/backward buttons is a minor ergonomic drawback.
The LCD instrument cluster, while impressive, offers standard display options, lacking the extensive customization found in some competitors. It primarily toggles between standard gauges and the night vision display. In terms of gadgets, the 2015 Mercedes S550 is replete with features. Optional split-view screen for the front passenger, rear-seat entertainment system, massaging front seats, reclining rear seats, power sunshades, and rear-seat memory settings are just a few highlights. Audio options range from high-quality standard systems to an audiophile-grade 24-speaker, 1,940-watt system.
Safety and driver-assistance technologies are abundant, including numerous radar and ultrasonic sensors, all-around cameras, and infrared night vision. These systems enable adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alerts, pre-collision safety measures, self-parking, pedestrian detection with automatic braking, and animal detection in night vision. The innovative Magic Body Control system scans the road ahead and proactively adjusts the suspension for optimal ride comfort. While US regulations preclude the advanced multi-beam LED headlamps available in other markets, the 2015 Mercedes S550 does feature an automatic air freshener system integrated into the HVAC.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2015 Mercedes S550 distinguishes itself by positioning its plug-in hybrid variant as a mainstream option rather than a top-tier, niche model. Buyers can choose between a potent 449-horsepower 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 or a 436-horsepower hybrid system based on a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. The V8 engine, delivering 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with Mercedes’ 7-speed automatic transmission and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, propels the 2015 Mercedes S550 4Matic from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.6 seconds.
For even greater performance, the S600 boasts a twin-turbo V12 producing 523 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque, though without AWD. The S63 AMG amps up the performance with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 delivering 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, achieving sub-4-second 0-60 mph times thanks to standard AWD. The top-of-the-line S65 AMG pushes output to 621 horsepower and a staggering 738 lb-ft of torque, but without AWD, its 0-60 mph acceleration is slightly slower than the S63. Intriguingly, all 2015 Mercedes S-Class models feature a transmission with two reverse speeds, a unique and perhaps unnecessary but noteworthy detail.
Driving Dynamics and Ride Comfort
Initial skepticism towards the Magic Body Control system proved somewhat justified in real-world driving. While it effectively mitigates the impact of speed bumps, its impact on rough roads and uneven surfaces was less pronounced. This is partly attributed to the system’s camera-based road detection and the already highly compliant standard air suspension. The air suspension itself delivers an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, akin to “a pillow floating on a cloud.”
Despite weight reduction efforts, the 2015 Mercedes S550 remains a heavier vehicle in its class. In contrast, the Jaguar XJ, significantly lighter, offers a more athletic driving experience. However, the 2015 Mercedes S550 prioritizes a more traditional luxury car demeanor, emphasizing ride comfort and refinement.
Despite its focus on comfort, the 2015 Mercedes S550 delivers surprising performance. It matches the 0-60 mph acceleration of a BMW M235i and exhibits impressive handling, comparable to a BMW 335i on the skidpad. The cabin remains remarkably quiet at all speeds. Steering is precise yet isolated from road imperfections. Body roll is well-controlled for a large sedan. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive and balanced weight distribution contribute to neutral and confident handling across various road conditions, an exceptional feat for a vehicle of its size and weight.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The 2015 Mercedes S550 occupies a unique price point, positioning it as a “tweener” in the luxury market. Starting at $94,400, it is priced significantly higher than base models of the BMW 7-Series, Lexus LS 460, Jaguar XJ, and Audi A8. With options, the price can easily exceed $115,000, and the test vehicle, even without extensive options, reached $137,500. This starting price is already higher than the fully equipped prices of many competitors.
Stepping up to the S63 AMG increases the price further, aligning with the higher end of the Audi A8 range. V12 models start even higher, significantly exceeding the price of a loaded Audi A8 W12. The Maybach and S65 AMG models occupy even more premium price brackets, approaching the entry points of brands like Bentley. The Porsche Panamera is the only vehicle with a comparable price range, offering a sportier, albeit less spacious and comfortable, alternative.
The 2015 Mercedes S550 may not be the most economical choice in the luxury segment, but its pricing reflects its unique blend of features, performance, and prestige. For buyers prioritizing value within this segment, the Kia K900 offers a more budget-friendly option. However, the 2015 Mercedes S550 appeals to those who value exclusivity and are willing to pay a premium for its unparalleled combination of attributes.
The 2015 Mercedes S550 4Matic embodies the quintessential luxury sedan experience. It is bold yet refined, exceptionally quiet and smooth, powerfully performant, and handles with surprising agility. While competitors may excel in specific areas, the 2015 Mercedes S550 uniquely succeeds in delivering a comprehensive luxury experience that few other sedans can match, making it the ideal choice for discerning buyers seeking the best in class.
