Safety: A hallmark of Mercedes-Benz

The dignified exterior design and size, the prestigious interior, and the luxurious comfort features are all beyond reproach, as expected of a Mercedes-Benz flagship. However, the "S-Class" is more than just its appearance and refined finish.


At the forefront of the era are "Efficient Technology" (efficiency and environmental performance) and "Intelligent Drive" (innovative technology with intelligence), which are indispensable factors when discussing the S-Class.


The S-Class also boasts impressive sales points: the combination of dynamic performance befitting a top-tier model weighing over 2 tons, and the environmental performance, including low emissions and improved fuel economy, which are essential for modern cars.

Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid

The adoption of an aluminum hybrid body shell, achieving a significant weight reduction of approximately 100 kg compared to the previous model, and segment-leading aerodynamics, allow the entry-level S 400 Hybrid to achieve a low fuel consumption of 15.9 km/liter, comparable to a 2-liter class car today.


The S 400 Hybrid, in terms of price and positioning, is in direct competition withLexus LS460, but Mercedes-Benz's signature safety technology is one step ahead.

Buying an S-Class

When asked "What is a safe car?", many people would likely nameMercedes-Benz, which has set itself apart from other luxury models with its "Intelligent Drive" safety technology, packed with the latest innovations. As Mercedes-Benz puts it, this technology has evolved to possess "intelligence."


In August of this year, Mercedes-Benz successfully conducted an experimental fully autonomous drive using the "S 500 Intelligent Drive research car" on a route approximately 100 km long, from Mannheim to Pforzheim in Germany. This test route was the same one taken 125 years ago by Bertha Benz, wife of Mercedes-Benz founder Karl Benz, on her "first long-distance automobile drive in the world."


However, as the phrase "first in the world" suggests, it is easy to imagine that the road conditions in the early days of the automobile were vastly different from today, with few other cars or traffic signals. The fact that the test car successfully navigated the chaotic roads of the 21st century, with roundabouts, traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, cyclists, pedestrians, and even parked cars, can be considered a significant advancement.

Mercedes-Benz S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE

What is noteworthy here is that the technology installed in the test car, which performed this autonomous drive, was not special at all. It was based on the "Intelligent Drive" system also used in the S-Class. In other words, "Intelligent Drive" is a highly advanced foundational technology that even enables autonomous driving.


The "Radar Safety Package," the latest driver assistance system within "Intelligent Drive," now includes a stereo multi-purpose camera and a multi-mode radar (rear) in addition to the conventional short- and medium-to-long-range millimeter-wave radars. This allows for the detection of pedestrians, not just obstacles, as before.

Furthermore, "Distronic Plus," "BAS Plus (Brake Assist Plus)," and "Pre-Safe Brake" have all been enhanced, covering a wider and longer range, and almost all conceivable real-world situations.


Additionally, it is equipped with "Rear CPA (Collision Prevention Assist Plus with rear impact warning)" which not only prevents collisions with vehicles ahead but also mitigates secondary damage, such as chain-reaction collisions with vehicles ahead, in the event of a rear-end collision.

While the functional explanations are detailed elsewhere due to space constraints, features such as "Active Blind Spot Assist" and "Active Lane Keeping Assist," which are also found in other vehicles, as well as Mercedes-Benz's existing features like "Night View Assist Plus" to enhance safety during night driving, are all part of "Intelligent Drive." Introducing all the safety devices would be enough for a special feature in a magazine; the content is that extensive.


The crucial point is that the S-Class is equipped with all the safety features, the latest environmental technologies, and the comfort features befitting a flagship model that Mercedes-Benz can currently offer in its production vehicles, without any compromise. Therefore, buying an S-Class is equivalent to acquiring the world's latest and most advanced technologies available today.

The entry-level hybrid

While the high-tech safety devices are impressive, the car's fundamental performance in "driving," "cornering," and "braking" is also considerable.


The "S 400 Hybrid," the entry-level model and a hybrid, combines a 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection engine with a maximum output of 225 kW (306 ps) and a second-generation hybrid system with a maximum output of 20 kW (27 ps). The motor's torque is a substantial 250 Nm (22.5 kgm), allowing for stress-free acceleration of the large body even when starting solely on electric power.


The transition to the engine is smooth and remarkably quiet. Particularly when the motor assists acceleration, you can enjoy powerful performance comparable to a diesel engine.

Mercedes-Benz S 550 long

However, the "S 550 long," equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 direct-injection twin-turbocharged engine with a maximum output of 335 kW (455 ps), surpasses it. It delivers astonishing, sustained acceleration that makes you wonder if this is truly a car weighing over 2 tons. If you keep the pedal down, reaching over 200 km/h would be a matter of moments. The powerful acceleration is almost overwhelming.


During acceleration, the 7-speed automatic transmission works seamlessly, with virtually imperceptible gear changes. Although not tested this time, the even more potentS 63 AMG longand "S 63 AMG 4MATIC long," as well as theS 65 AMG longare waiting, which is truly impressive.

The King of Mercedes

The newly adopted "Magic Body Control" is an optional feature that requires an additional charge of 500,000 yen for the "S 550 long," but it is a highly recommended option.


This hydraulic active suspension system scans the road surface up to 15 meters ahead with stereo multi-purpose cameras located at the top of the windshield and instantly adjusts the suspension according to the road conditions, minimizing the impact transmitted to the body and maintaining a flat ride.Mercedes-Benznamed it "Magic Body Control" will surely become clear.


Normally, when encountering a step in the road ahead, one instinctively braces for the shock. However, with "Magic Body Control" activated, it feels like only a slight jolt. Since the operating range of "Magic Body Control" extends up to 130 km/h, its benefits can be enjoyed almost throughout daily driving in Japan.

The S-Class, which previously led in safety and ride comfort among prestigious cars known for their imposing appearance and luxurious appeal, is, apart from personal design preferences, an impeccable "King of Mercedes" that can be described as flawless.


However, while I was photographing the S-Class at a hotel entrance, a golfer, who immediately recognized it as the new model, peered inside with interest and murmured, "As expected of Benz. This is amazing." Even without driving it or explaining its cutting-edge safety features, its regal presence is evident to everyone.


The S-Class exudes an aura of undeniable presence, perhaps the strongest since the W140, in my personal opinion. Hearing from a dealer in Tokyo that they are overwhelmed with orders, I find myself thinking that my impression might not be mistaken.

Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid

Body Size | Length 5,116 x Width 1,899 x Height 1,493 mm

Wheelbase | 3,035 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,624 / 1,637 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 124 mm

Trunk Capacity (VDA) | 510 Liters

Weight | - kg

Engine | 3,497 cc V6 Direct Injection DOHC + Electric Motor

Max Output | 225 kW (306 ps) / 6,500 rpm

Max Torque | 370 Nm (37.7 kgm) / 3,500-5,250 rpm

Motor Output | 20 kW (27 ps)

Motor Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm)

Transmission | 7-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | FR

Tires Front/Rear | 245/50R18

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 6.8 seconds (Manufacturer's data)

Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 6.3 ℓ/100km (approx. 15.9 km/ℓ) (Manufacturer's data)

Steering Position | Right

Price | 10.9 million yen (Exclusive: 12.7 million yen)



Mercedes-Benz S 550 long

Body Size | Length 5,250 x Width 1,900 x Height 1,495 mm

　　　　<Length 5,280 x Width 1,915 x Height 1,495 mm>

Wheelbase | 3,165 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,625 / 1,635 mm <1,630 / 1,645 mm>

Minimum Ground Clearance | 130 mm

Trunk Capacity (VDA) | 530 Liters

Weight | 2,180 kg <2,190 kg>

Engine | 4,663 cc V8 Direct Injection DOHC Twin-Turbocharged

Max Output | 335 kW (455 ps) / 5,250-5,500 rpm

Max Torque | 700 Nm (71.3 kgm) / 1,800-3,500 rpm

Transmission | 7-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | FR

Tires Front/Rear | 245/50R18

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.8 seconds (Manufacturer's data)

Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 8.6 ℓ/100km (approx. 11.6 km/ℓ) (Manufacturer's data)

Steering Position | Left / Right

Price | 15.45 million yen

* Values in <> are for when the AMG Sport Package is installed.



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG long

Body Size | Length 5,287 x Width 1,915 x Height 1,499 mm

Wheelbase | 3,165 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,630 / 1,644 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 141 mm

Trunk Capacity (VDA) | 510 Liters

Weight | - kg

Engine | 5,461 cc V8 Direct Injection DOHC Twin-Turbocharged

Max Output | 430 kW (585 ps) / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque | 900 Nm (91.7 kgm) / 2,250-3,750 rpm

Transmission | 7-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | FR

Tires Front/Rear | 255/45R19 / 285/40R19

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.4 seconds (Manufacturer's data)

Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 10.1 ℓ/100km (approx. 9.9 km/ℓ) (Manufacturer's data)

Steering Position | Right

Price | 23.4 million yen



Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG 4MATIC long

Body Size | Length 5,287 x Width 1,915 x Height 1,499 mm

Wheelbase | 3,165 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,643 / 1,644 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 135 mm

Trunk Capacity (VDA) | 510 Liters

Weight | - kg

Engine | 5,461 cc V8 Direct Injection DOHC Twin-Turbocharged

Max Output | 430 kW (585 ps) / 5,500 rpm

Max Torque | 900 Nm (91.7 kgm) / 2,250-3,750 rpm

Transmission | 7-speed Automatic

Drivetrain | 4WD

Tires Front/Rear | 255/45R19 / 285/40R19

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.0 seconds (Manufacturer's data)

Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 10.3 ℓ/100km (approx. 9.7 km/ℓ) (Manufacturer's data)

Steering Position | Left

Price | 23.4 million yen

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