The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan emerged as a beacon of automotive excellence, embodying the three core engineering philosophies of “Intelligent Drive,” “Efficient Technology,” and “Essence of Luxury.” This model year not only solidified the S-Class’s position as the flagship of Mercedes-Benz but also as a benchmark for the entire automotive industry, pushing technological boundaries and setting new standards for luxury vehicles.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, aptly summarized the ambition behind this generation S-Class: “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 statement encapsulates the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan 2015.
Essence of Luxury: Interior and Comfort Redefined
The “Essence of Luxury” is palpable throughout the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, particularly within its meticulously crafted interior. Every detail, from the supple seats to the whisper-quiet air conditioning system, the intuitively designed controls, the elegant aesthetics, and the cutting-edge infotainment, has been engineered to surpass the highest expectations. Mercedes-Benz engineers poured new ideas and painstaking realization into every aspect, ensuring the perceived quality elevates the S-Class to flagship status.
The cabin of the 2015 S-Class sedan is an oasis of tranquility and sophistication. Generous use of exquisite wood trim across the dashboard and center console creates a warm and inviting ambiance. Metallized switch surfaces, finished with pearl-effect paint in hues complementing the interior color scheme, underscore the vehicle’s exceptional quality. Rear passengers are treated with equal reverence, enjoying first-class seating, door panels, and controls mirroring the high standards set in the front. For those seeking an even more personalized experience, optional rear seat packages, including a Business center console, offer enhanced comfort and practicality with features like additional storage, folding tables, and individual seating arrangements.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan showcasing premium wood trim and leather seats.
Intelligent Drive: Merging Comfort and Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Intelligent Drive” philosophy takes center stage in the 2015 S-Class sedan, seamlessly merging comfort and safety into a holistic driving experience. Building upon pioneering innovations like PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, a suite of new systems elevates the S-Class to a new dimension of motoring. These technologies work in concert to make the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class not only more comfortable but also significantly safer for occupants and other road users.
Design: A Synthesis of Modernity and Sensual Purity
The design of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan 2015 is instantly recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz, carrying forward the brand’s iconic design language. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design, describes it as: “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 ethos blends progressive aesthetics with the timeless elegance reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the 1930s.
The 2015 S-Class exudes effortless superiority and leadership, emphasized by a larger, more upright, and three-dimensional radiator grille. Classic sedan proportions are achieved with a long hood, a flowing, domed roofline, and a gently sloping rear. The size and spaciousness are crafted to project prestige, while the powerful roofline hints at a sporty, coupé-like character.
The signature “Dropping Line,” a subtle character line descending from front to rear, elegantly sculpts the side profile, creating a sense of dynamism even at a standstill. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces along the flanks results in a powerful and elongated silhouette that conveys both excitement and serenity. Pronounced shoulders above the rear wheels further accentuate the car’s athletic stance.
Alt text: Elegant side profile of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan highlighting its flowing lines and proportions.
The rear design of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan is equally compelling. Horizontal lines extending from the trunk lid to the bumper visually widen the car. The rear windscreen seamlessly integrates into the C-pillars, echoing a coupé-like design. The newly styled tail lights, fully encased within the body and meticulously detailed, complete the design with sophisticated integration and craftsmanship.
LED Technology: Pioneering Illumination
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan marks a historic milestone as the first automobile in the world to entirely eliminate traditional light bulbs, embracing a complete LED lighting system for both interior and exterior illumination. This pioneering move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in automotive lighting technology. Nearly 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle itself, the interior, and the trunk, depending on the chosen equipment level.
This comprehensive LED system includes:
- Headlamps: Up to 56 LEDs per headlamp assembly.
- Tail lights: Up to 35 LEDs per tail light (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp).
- Interior (including ambient lighting): Approximately 300 LEDs.
The intelligent lighting system of the 2015 S-Class extends beyond mere illumination. Multi-level functionality, such as automatically reducing brake light intensity at night or while stationary at traffic lights to avoid dazzling drivers behind, demonstrates thoughtful engineering. Enhanced visibility is further provided by improved Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist PLUS systems. Utilizing a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors, the 2015 S-Class sedan achieves 360-degree all-around vision, improving hazard detection.
Suspension: MAGIC BODY CONTROL – The World’s First Suspension with “Eyes”
Setting another world-first, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan offers ROAD SURFACE SCAN in conjunction with MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension. This innovative system utilizes a stereo camera to proactively detect road surface irregularities ahead. Upon detecting bumps or potholes, MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously adjusts the suspension to preemptively counteract these imperfections, delivering unparalleled ride comfort. While MAGIC BODY CONTROL is an optional feature, the 2015 S-Class comes standard with the continuously adaptive damping system ADS PLUS and an enhanced AIRMATIC full air suspension system.
Interior: Command Center and Wellbeing Oasis
The interior architecture of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan embodies a cutting-edge, yet classic and sophisticated saloon. The design language is characterized by fluid lines and sensuous elegance, creating a sense of visual breadth and serene solidity. High-quality materials and elegant design harmonize with clarity and functionality, creating a cabin that prioritizes ride comfort, spaciousness, and intuitive user-friendliness.
Two high-resolution 12.3-inch TFT color displays in 8:3 format serve as the central information hub. The left display replaces the traditional instrument cluster, providing essential driving information. The right display offers intuitive control over infotainment and comfort functions. The operating logic has been further refined to manage the increasing complexity of modern vehicle functions, prioritizing ergonomics, user convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Alt text: Dashboard of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan featuring dual high-resolution displays and premium materials.
The control layout in the 2015 S-Class groups related functions coherently, both visually and operationally. Metallized switch surfaces and solid aluminum controls provide tactile and visual highlights of exceptional quality. The new control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and a favorites function with twelve programmable memory slots. The central rotary pushbutton, along with direct access keys for frequently used functions and a toolbar for driving assistance systems, remains a primary control element. Enhanced Voice Control 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.
Climate Control: Personalized Atmosphere
The climate control system in the 2015 S-Class sedan has been comprehensively enhanced, focusing on performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise reduction, and efficiency. The optional AIR-BALANCE package introduces perfume atomization, ionization, and enhanced filtration compared to the standard system. Rear passengers benefit from two additional climate zones for improved thermal comfort. A novel feature is electric heating for armrests and center consoles, further elevating passenger comfort.
The AIR-BALANCE package includes a world-first “active perfuming system.” This system allows drivers to manually switch the fragrance system on or off and adjust the intensity. The subtle and fleeting fragrance personalizes the interior ambiance without permanently altering the cabin smell or depositing perfume molecules on fabrics.
Seats: Mobile Office and Relaxation Zone
The seats in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan represent a new pinnacle of seating and climatic comfort, incorporating world-first features like the ENERGIZING massage function inspired by hot-stone therapy and active seat ventilation with reversing fans. Rear seat comfort was a particular focus, with four different rear seat configurations available, including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable up to 43.5 degrees.
The ENERGIZING massage function, a world first, utilizes 14 independently actuated air cushions within the backrest, combined with an integrated warming function. Six massage programs are available, two of which incorporate the warming function, and this feature is also available for rear seats. Active seat ventilation employs reversing fans, initially drawing cooler ambient air onto the seat surface to rapidly reduce temperature before switching to blower mode to minimize drafts.
Four seat variants cater to different preferences. Luxury and reclining seat options feature redesigned adjustment kinematics, allowing separate backrest adjustment without altering legroom or the seat reference point. The Executive Rear Seat Package (reclining seat) offers a maximum backrest angle of 43.5 degrees, the most generous in the luxury segment, along with an adjustable calf support and heel rest for unparalleled reclining comfort. The Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS extends the front center console to the rear, incorporating thermoelectric cup holders for cooling or warming drinks and aircraft-style folding tables.
Multimedia: Concert Hall on Wheels
A completely new generation of multimedia system debuts in the 2015 S-Class sedan, featuring intuitive operation and enhanced visual feedback through animations and visualizations. The multi-user system allows independent access to media sources from any seat. All audio systems in the 2015 S-Class incorporate the innovative Frontbass system, placing woofers in the firewall to utilize the resonance chamber within the cross-member and side member, freeing up door space and improving sound staging. Two premium audio systems developed with Burmester are available: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system. The navigation system features interactive content presentation, including an animated compass, “Driveshow” passenger information, and Google Maps integration on both front and rear displays.
Body: Lightweight Design and Maximum Stability
The bodyshell of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan prioritizes crash safety, rigidity for exceptional handling, and minimized noise and vibration levels. It utilizes a third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, achieving a 50 percent improvement in lightweight index (torsional stiffness relative to weight and size) compared to its predecessor. The aluminum content exceeds 50 percent, maintaining or slightly reducing body weight despite increased safety and comfort requirements. The outer skin, including the roof and front body section, is entirely aluminum, while the safety passenger cell utilizes a high proportion of high-strength steel.
Intelligent Drive: Networked Senses for Enhanced Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s “Real Life Safety” philosophy drives the “Intelligent Drive” system in the 2015 S-Class sedan. Numerous new and enhanced assistance systems work together, relying on a new stereo camera and multi-stage radar sensors for comprehensive 360-degree vision. Prof. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, explains, “Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesn’t just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision.”
Key new and enhanced assistance systems include:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: Provides steering input to maintain lane centering.
- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: Detects crossing traffic and pedestrians, enhancing braking assistance.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects occupied adjacent lanes and oncoming traffic, mitigating unintentional lane departure.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: Allows permanent high beams without dazzling other drivers.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Enhanced thermal imaging and pedestrian/animal detection with spotlight function.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Extended speed range, fatigue monitoring, and service area recommendations.
Alt text: Illustration of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Intelligent Drive systems highlighting sensor fusion and 360-degree awareness.
Extended PRE-SAFE® Protection: Proactive Safety Measures
Building on the pioneering PRE-SAFE® system, the 2015 S-Class sedan introduces further refinements to anticipatory occupant protection. New PRE-SAFE® functions aim to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in urban environments, mitigate rear-end collision risks, and enhance seat belt effectiveness.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake: Detects pedestrians and initiates autonomous braking at speeds up to 31 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Recognizes imminent rear-end collisions, applies vehicle brakes to minimize whiplash, and deploys reversible belt tensioners before impact.
- PRE-SAFE® Impulse: Controlled seat belt release during frontal collisions to reduce chest pressure and injury severity.
Setting Rear Seat Safety Standards
Mercedes-Benz further enhanced rear seat passenger safety in the 2015 S-Class sedan with features like the illuminated seat belt buckle extender, beltbag, and cushionbag (latter two in Rear Seat Package). The seat belt buckle extender automatically extends and retracts for easier buckling and reduced belt slack. The beltbag, an inflatable seatbelt strap, reduces ribcage injury risk in frontal collisions. The cushionbag, standard with Executive Rear Seat Packages, prevents submarining (sliding under the seat belt) in reclined seats during accidents.
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Portfolio & Pricing (US Market)
| Model | MSRP | Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | Engine | Performance | 0-60 mph | Drive Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S550 | $94,400 | 17/26/20 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 449 hp / 516 lb-ft torque | 4.8 sec | RWD |
| S550 4MATIC | $97,400 | 16/26/19 | 4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo | 449 hp / 516 lb-ft torque | 4.8 sec | AWD |
| S600 | $166,900 | 12/21/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 523 hp / 612 lb-ft torque | 4.5 sec | RWD |
| S63 AMG 4MATIC | $141,450 | 15/23/18 | 5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo AMG | 577 hp / 664 lb-ft torque | 3.9 sec | AWD |
| S65 AMG | $222,000 | 13/20/15 | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo AMG | 621 hp / 738 lb-ft torque | 4.2 sec | RWD |
| Mercedes-Maybach S600 | ~$200,000 | TBD | 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo | 523 hp / 612 lb-ft torque | 5.0 sec | RWD |
Note: Prices and specifications are for the US market in 2015 and may vary.
Standard and Optional Equipment Highlights (S550)
Standard Highlights:
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- LED Ambient Lighting (7 colors, 5 dimming levels, 4 zones)
- Touchpad for COMAND System
- Air Balance Package
Optional Highlights:
- MAGIC BODY CONTROL
- ENERGIZING massage function
- Rear Seat Package (including seatbelt airbags, PRE-SAFE® Rear, 4-Zone Climate Control)
- Warmth & Comfort Package (heated steering wheel, armrests, seats, etc.)
- New generation Driver Assistance Package (Active Lane Keeping Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS®, BAS PLUS®, PRE-SAFE Brake®)
- New generation Active Parking Assist
Model Positioning and Competitors
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan represents the pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz brand, embodying industry-leading luxury, a refined interior, and groundbreaking innovations in comfort, entertainment, and safety. Its main competitors in the luxury sedan segment include:
- BMW 7 Series
- Audi A8
- Lexus LS
Safety Feature Highlights
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan boasts an extensive suite of safety features, including:
- 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
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan 2015 is more than just a car; it’s a statement of automotive artistry and technological prowess. It redefined the standards for luxury sedans, introducing groundbreaking innovations in safety, comfort, and driving dynamics. Even years after its release, the 2015 S-Class remains a highly desirable vehicle, embodying the timeless appeal of Mercedes-Benz and its unwavering commitment to “the best or nothing.” For those seeking a blend of unparalleled luxury, advanced technology, and exceptional performance in a sedan, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continues to be a compelling choice.
