The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrived, not merely as a new model, but as a declaration of automotive supremacy. Built upon the pillars of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury,” this iteration of the S-Class pushed technological boundaries and solidified its position as the benchmark for luxury vehicles worldwide. It wasn’t just a step forward for Mercedes-Benz; it represented a leap in automotive development as a whole.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, articulated the ambition behind this vehicle perfectly: “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 ethos of striving for absolute perfection in every facet is what defines the Mercedes S Class 2015.
The Essence of Luxury Redefined in the 2015 S-Class
The pursuit of automotive perfection is palpable throughout the mercedes s class 2015, particularly within its meticulously crafted interior. Every element, from the exquisitely designed seats to the advanced climate control system, the intuitively placed controls, the aesthetically pleasing design, the cutting-edge infotainment, and the unparalleled comfort and safety features, reflects a relentless dedication to quality. Countless innovations, realized with painstaking precision and an unwavering focus on perceived quality, underscore the lofty standards set by Mercedes-Benz engineers for their flagship model – and for themselves.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety in the 2015 Mercedes S Class
Safety, a cornerstone of the S-Class legacy, reached new heights in the mercedes s class 2015. Building upon innovations like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, Mercedes-Benz introduced “Intelligent Drive,” a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates comfort and safety into a unified driving experience. A suite of groundbreaking systems made the new S-Class not only more comfortable but also significantly safer, anticipating and mitigating potential hazards with unprecedented sophistication.
Design Philosophy: A Modern Statement of Status and Sensual Clarity
The design of the mercedes s class 2015 is instantly recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz, carrying forward the brand’s iconic aesthetic DNA. Gorden Wagener, the head of design, described the design language as “a modern embodiment of sensual clarity.” He elaborates, “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 design draws a line from the sophisticated, progressive design idiom to the classic elegance of our 1930s cars – intelligence that speaks to the emotions. Stylish sportiness and sensual forms in synthesis with timeless clarity and effortless superiority make the S-Class a true design icon.”
The upright, larger, and three-dimensional radiator grille commands attention, asserting the mercedes s class 2015‘s leadership aspirations. Classic sedan proportions are achieved with a long hood, a gracefully domed roofline, and a gently sloping rear. The size and spaciousness convey prestige, while the dynamic roofline hints at a sporty, coupe-like character.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line flowing from front to rear, elegantly sculpts the side profile, adding dynamism even when stationary. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces creates a powerful, elongated silhouette, exuding both excitement and serenity. The pronounced shoulder line above the rear wheel further accentuates its athletic stance.
The rear design of the mercedes s class 2015 is equally compelling, with surfaces and lines flowing seamlessly from the side. The slightly inclined form is not only elegant but also aerodynamically efficient. Horizontal lines across the trunk lid and bumper emphasize the car’s width, while the rear windscreen, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz design, flows into the C-pillars, creating a coupe-like impression. The taillights, completely integrated into the body, showcase meticulous craftsmanship and complete the design narrative with sophisticated detail.
Pioneering LED Technology: Illuminating the Future of Automotive Lighting
A century after electric lighting revolutionized automobiles, the mercedes s class 2015 marked a paradigm shift by becoming the first vehicle in the world to eliminate incandescent light bulbs entirely, embracing a full LED lighting system. This bold move solidified Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering role in automotive lighting technology. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road ahead, the vehicle itself, the interior, and the trunk, offering unparalleled visibility and a distinctive aesthetic.
The intelligent multi-level functionality of the lighting system is another world-first. For instance, the intensity of the brake lights automatically reduces at night or when stationary at traffic lights, mitigating glare for drivers behind. Depending on the specific equipment, the LED count includes:
- Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs each.
- Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs each (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp).
- Interior (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs.
Enhanced visibility is further provided by advanced driver-assistance systems like Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the mercedes s class 2015 achieves 360-degree all-around vision, significantly improving hazard detection on the road.
MAGIC BODY CONTROL: Suspension with “Eyes” for Unrivaled Ride Comfort
Setting another world first, the mercedes s class 2015 introduced ROAD SURFACE SCAN, enabling it to detect road imperfections ahead. When uneven surfaces are detected by the stereo camera, the optional MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension instantaneously adjusts to optimize ride comfort. This innovative system, while optional, works in conjunction with the standard Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and the enhanced AIRMATIC full air suspension, delivering an unparalleled level of ride smoothness.
Interior Architecture: A Sanctuary of Calm and Cutting-Edge Design
The interior of the mercedes s class 2015 embodies a classic yet avant-garde saloon aesthetic, characterized by visual spaciousness and a sense of solid tranquility. Horizontal lines and elements create a broad and serene environment, blending high-quality materials and elegant design with exceptional clarity and functionality. The interior seamlessly merges ride comfort, spaciousness, and user-friendliness to the highest standards imaginable.
The harmonious integration of materials and colors creates an exclusive ambiance, seemingly sculpted from a single piece. Extensive use of wood trim, particularly on the dashboard and center console, exudes natural warmth and luxury. Metallized switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three color shades, tailored to complement the interior color scheme, further accentuate the exceptional quality.
Rear passengers in the mercedes s class 2015 are treated to a first-class experience, with seats, door panels, and controls designed and executed to the same exacting standards as the front cabin. Optional rear seat packages offer further individualization, including a Business center console that combines personal comfort with practical features like additional storage, a folding table, and two-place seating.
Command Center Elegance: The Control and Display Concept
The mercedes s class 2015 features a revolutionary information center comprised of two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in an 8:3 format. The left-hand display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information, while the right-hand display offers intuitive control over infotainment and comfort functions. This dual-screen setup reflects the increasing complexity of modern vehicles and the need for seamless function integration.
The design philosophy behind the control and display elements prioritized grouping related functions coherently, both visually and functionally. Beyond the new displays, metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls add tactile and visual richness. The fine structuring on the metal surfaces provides a satisfying tactile feedback, exemplifying the attention to detail synonymous with Mercedes-Benz.
New control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an expanded favorites function with twelve customizable memory slots. The central control element remains the rotary pushbutton, complemented by direct access keys in the center console for frequently used functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems.
The Enhanced Voice Control System allows for complete address input in a single command (one-shot input), and voice control extends to telephone and audio systems. A new feature allows text messages (SMS) and emails to be read aloud, enhancing convenience and minimizing driver distraction.
Climate Control Innovation: Creating the Perfect Cabin Atmosphere
The climate control system in the mercedes s class 2015 underwent extensive development, focusing on performance, air quality, precise temperature regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration compared to the standard system. Rear automatic climate control features two additional zones for improved thermal comfort, and a completely new feature is the electric heating of armrests and center consoles, providing localized warmth on demand.
The “active perfuming system,” a world-first within the AIR-BALANCE package, allows for personalized cabin fragrance. “Active” signifies manual activation and deactivation, with adjustable intensity. The system subtly perfumes the interior without permanently altering the cabin smell or depositing perfume molecules on surfaces. The fragrance is discreet, mild, and dissipates quickly.
Seat Comfort: Mobile Office and Wellness Oasis
Mercedes-Benz elevated seating comfort in the mercedes s class 2015 to new heights with numerous world-first features, including the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort received particular attention, with four distinct rear seat variants available, including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees, transforming the rear cabin into a space for work or relaxation.
The ENERGIZING massage function, inspired by hot-stone therapy, is a groundbreaking innovation. Developed by Mercedes-Benz seat specialists, it employs 14 independently actuated air cushions in the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function. Six massage programs are available, two of which incorporate heat. This function is also available for the rear seats.
Active seat ventilation utilizes reversing fans for the first time. Upon activation, cooler ambient air is initially drawn onto the seat surface, rapidly reducing the temperature of a heated seat. After four minutes, the fans automatically switch to blower mode to prevent drafts.
Four seat variants are offered for the mercedes s class 2015. Luxury and reclining seat variants feature redesigned adjustment kinematics. Unlike traditional trailing backrest designs, the backrest adjusts independently, maintaining consistent legroom and seat reference points. The cushion can be adjusted separately for angle and horizontal position.
The Executive Rear Seat Package (reclining seat) increases the maximum backrest angle to 43.5 degrees, offering the most reclined position in the luxury segment. It includes a calf support with adjustable length and angle. Combined with the heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat at the front and an additional comfort cushion, it creates a reclined position that sets new benchmarks for sleeping and resting comfort in an automobile.
The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS (with rear center console) extends the front console visually into the rear cabin. It incorporates innovative thermo-cup holders using Peltier technology to cool or warm drinks. Similar to aircraft seating, the center console features two tables that can be easily deployed or stowed with one hand.
Multimedia Prowess: Transforming the Cabin into a Mobile Concert Hall
A completely new generation of multimedia system debuted in the mercedes s class 2015, featuring intuitive operation and enhanced functionality through visualization and animations. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat.
The Frontbass system, a Mercedes-Benz innovation making its sedan debut, is standard across all audio systems. Woofers are integrated into the firewall, utilizing the approximately 40-liter space within the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber. This eliminates the need for conventional door-mounted woofers, allowing mid-range speakers to be positioned higher in the doors, improving sound staging and creating additional door storage space.
Two premium audio systems, developed in collaboration with high-end audio specialist Burmester, are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system, transforming the cabin into a concert-quality listening environment.
The navigation function features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, the “Driveshow” passenger information display (similar to aircraft systems), and Google Maps integration on both the head unit and rear screens. Traffic information is displayed with hatched lines for improved clarity.
Body Structure: Strength and Lightweight Design
The bodyshell of the mercedes s class 2015 was engineered for maximum crash safety, exceptional rigidity for superior handling, and minimized noise and vibration levels. It represents a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, with a 50 percent improvement in lightweight index (torsional stiffness relative to weight and vehicle size) compared to its predecessor.
Evolving from the hybrid lightweight construction introduced in the 1990s with the 220 model series, the aluminum hybrid bodyshell of the mercedes s class 2015 utilizes an optimized material mix. The proportion of aluminum has increased to over 50 percent, allowing the body weight to remain virtually unchanged for 20 years, even slightly reduced, despite stricter comfort and safety standards and added features. Structural foams are strategically employed in node areas, and the entire outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is aluminum. The safety passenger cell utilizes a high percentage of high-strength steel.
Intelligent Drive: Networked Senses for Enhanced Safety and Assistance
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy, driven by accident research, is embodied in the “Intelligent Drive” systems of the mercedes s class 2015. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems work in concert to improve both comfort and safety. These systems rely on a shared sensor suite, including a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Professor Thomas Weber, then Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, described the system’s capabilities: “Intelligent assistance systems analyze complex situations and better recognize potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems. 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 sensor systems, is crucial to providing comprehensive protection for vehicle occupants and other road users. Support functions range from driver assistance and comfort enhancement to visual, acoustic, and tactile warnings, and even corrective actions in emergencies, such as autonomous braking.
Key new and enhanced assistance systems in the mercedes s class 2015 include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, augmenting driver braking force.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes, particularly oncoming traffic, and mitigates unintentional lane departure through one-sided braking.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Enables permanent high-beam usage without dazzling other drivers by selectively masking out portions of the beam.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Enhanced with a thermal imaging camera to detect pedestrians or animals in unlit areas, highlighting them in a crystal-clear night view image and offering a spotlight function to flash detected pedestrians.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver behavior, warns of inattentiveness and drowsiness, and provides information on fatigue levels and nearby service areas.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Proactive Safety Measures
Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, introduced a decade prior, continued to evolve in the mercedes s class 2015. New PRE-SAFE® functions further enhance safety by helping to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in city traffic, mitigate risks from rear-end collisions, and optimize seat belt protection.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph to avoid collisions.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions, applies the vehicle’s brakes to minimize whiplash risk, and deploys PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt release in frontal collisions to reduce chest pressure and injury severity.
Rear Seat Safety Leadership: New Features for Rear Occupant Protection
Mercedes-Benz extended its safety leadership to rear seat passengers in the mercedes s class 2015 with features like the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag.
- Seat belt buckle extender: Electrically extends and retracts the belt buckle, reducing belt slack for improved occupant restraint.
- Beltbag: An inflatable seat-belt strap that reduces ribcage strain in frontal collisions.
- Cushionbag: Standard in Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining (sliding under the seat belt) in reclined seating positions during accidents.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing:
| Model | MSRP |
|---|---|
| MY2015 S550 | $94,400 |
| MY2015 S550 4MATIC | $97,400 |
| MY2015 S600 | $166,900 |
| MY2015 S63 AMG 4MATIC | $141,450 |
| MY2015 S65 AMG | $222,000 |
| MY2016 Mercedes-Maybach S600 | “around $200,000” |
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights (S550):
Standard:
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- LED Ambient Lighting
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package
Optional:
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL
- ENERGIZING massage function
- Rear Seat Package
- Warmth & Comfort Package
- New generation Driver Assistance Package
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning and Competition:
The mercedes s class 2015 represents the pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand, embodying industry-leading refinement, luxurious interiors, and groundbreaking innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety. It stands as a trailblazer in efficient drive concepts and fuel economy within its class.
Main Competitors:
- BMW 7 Series
- Audi A8
- Lexus LS
Key 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 Specifications at a Glance:
| Feature | 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 mpg | 16/26/19 mpg | 12/21/15 mpg | TBD | 15/23/18 mpg | 13/20/15 mpg |
| 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 Configuration | RWD | All-Wheel Drive | RWD | RWD | All-Wheel Drive | RWD |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) in | 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 |
The mercedes s class 2015 stands as a testament to automotive innovation and luxury, setting new standards and reinforcing its claim as “the best automobile in the world.” For those seeking the ultimate driving experience, the S-Class remains the definitive choice.
