The Fully Redesigned S-Class Officially Announced in Japan | Mercedes-Benz
CAR / NEWS
April 6, 2015

The Fully Redesigned S-Class Officially Announced in Japan | Mercedes-Benz


Mercedes-Benz S-Class


The New Standard for the L-Segment


New S-Class Arrives in Japan



Full Model Change After 8 Yearshas now landed in Japan. What kind of evolution, spanning eight years, has been infused into its cutting-edge safety and environmental adaptability? Also announced simultaneously was theAMG Modelswhich is also a point not to be missed.



Text by SAKURAI Keiichi
Event Photographs by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)





Entry Grade is Immediately a Hybrid Model



The Mercedes-Benz flagship model, the "S-Class," first announced in its home country in May, has already been unveiled in Japan. The Japanese debut was held aboard the "Nippon Maru" cruise ship in Tokyo Bay, an unprecedented venue. This alone demonstrates the immense effort invested in the S-Class's first full model change in eight years. Furthermore, the AMG models were also announced concurrently, powerfully asserting their presence.

With the concept of "Efficient Technology – Thorough Improvement of Efficiency," Mercedes describes it as a "new era prestige car" that balances safety, comfort, and environmental compatibility at a high level. To become the new benchmark for luxury models, the new "S-Class" incorporates the latest devices without reservation. There is no holding back.




The fact that all available technologies currently held by Mercedes are concentrated in this "S-Class" means that by choosing the "S-Class," one obtains the latest and highest peak of automotive technology. It is truly a fitting car for leaders who shape the times.

The fact that all available technologies currently held by Mercedes are concentrated in this "S-Class" means that by choosing the "S-Class," one obtains the latest and highest peak of automotive technology. It is truly a fitting car for leaders who shape the times.


Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG 4MATIC long






The keywords for the new "S-Class" are "Intelligent Drive – Innovative Technology with Intelligence" and "ENERGIZING Comfort – Ultimate Comfort," representing the cutting edge of the era. Alongside the chassis and drive systems that extensively employ high technology, notable features include the coupe-like exterior design and the new dashboard design with two 12.3-inch TFT LCD screens placed side-by-side for the instrument panel.

At the Japanese launch event, Kintaro Ueno, President of Mercedes-Benz Japan, began his introduction of the new "S-Class" by quoting Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Safety or design. Power or efficiency. Comfort or sportiness. Rather than choosing between these, we chose 'The best or nothing' in every aspect. This new S-Class faithfully embodies that Mercedes slogan. This car is destined to become the new standard for luxury cars." His speech conveyed his confidence in the product's quality and sales potential.


Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG 4MATIC long


Mercedes-Benz S 550 long





In terms of exterior, the imposing front grille, befitting a flagship model, remains unchanged. The sculpted, voluminous form, as if carved from a single block, is designed with flowing lines reminiscent of a coupe.with flowing lines reminiscent of a coupe.

Another significant development is the adoption of an aluminum hybrid body shell, achieving a substantial weight reduction of approximately 100 kg, and the realization of segment-leading aerodynamics. In person, the character line along the body side is striking, expressing both quality and dynamism, and conveying a sense of youthfulness. However, the distinctive design of the previous model, where the trunk lid was raised one level above the rear fender, is no longer present, with only a subtle nod to its predecessor.





Mercedes-Benz S-Class


The New Standard for the L-Segment


New S-Class Arrives in Japan (2)





Comfort and Safety Performance Befitting a Flagship



The interior, on the other hand, features a distinctive design where the lower edge of the dashboard curves and integrates seamlessly with the doors. Traditional analog meters have been abolished, and all displays are handled by TFT LCD screens. While the gauges are simulated, they are in fact images projected onto the LCD screens.

However, physical switches are also provided for functions such as adjusting the air conditioning fan speed and controlling audio volume with a jog dial. This allows for blind touch operation and intuitive control while driving, which feels refreshingly different compared to modern controller systems that aim to operate everything with a single dial. Of course, most operations can still be performed using the COMAND system as before.





It's not just the appearance that befits a flagship model. To achieve a superior ride quality, "MAGIC BODY CONTROL," which uses a stereo multi-purpose camera to detect road surface irregularities ahead and adjust suspension response accordingly, is standard on the "S 63 AMG long" (optional on the "S 550 long").

One might wonder how much more comfortable the ride can get, but the flat and comfortable ride, which minimizes impact transmitted to the body, is truly worthy of the "Top of Mercedes."


Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG 4MATIC long





Safety is undoubtedly a key aspect when discussing the new "S-Class."The "Intelligent Drive" safety technology, described by Mercedes as "intelligent," and the familiar "PRE-SAFE®" suite of driver assistance systems, now incorporate stereo multi-purpose cameras and multi-mode radar (rear) in addition to the existing short- and long-range millimeter-wave radar. This allows for the detection of not only obstacles but also pedestrians. Similar to the "E-Class" introduced earlier, there are no blind spots when it comes to preventing rear-end collisions.

"DISTRONIC PLUS," "Brake Assist PLUS," and "PRE-SAFE® Brake" have also evolved, covering a wider range of areas and situations. Furthermore, to prepare for rear-end collisions and mitigate secondary damage such as chain reactions, "REAR-END COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST" (collision warning system with rear-end collision prevention) has been newly equipped.

While the performance of the powertrains, including the hybrid system, is detailed elsewhere, a common thread is the significant improvement in fuel efficiency alongside enhanced power output. As a flagship model, the dedication to efficiency and fuel economy is evident.



Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid

"Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid"




The lineup consists of five models: the entry-level "S 400 HYBRID," which combines a 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection engine with a second-generation hybrid system; the "S 400 HYBRID EXCLUSIVE," an enhanced version of the S 400 HYBRID with improved interior, exterior, and comfort features; the long-wheelbase premium model "S 550 long"; and the "S 63 AMG long," powered by a Mercedes-AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo direct-injection engine boasting a top output of 585 ps (430 kW), the fastest in the luxury sedan class. Additionally, the "S 63 AMG 4MATIC long" features AMG's dedicated 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This diverse lineup demonstrates the significant emphasis placed on the new "S-Class."





It is unusual for the entry-grade model to be a hybrid, and it is also unusual to offer AMG models from the initial launch in Japan. This is proof of the significant investment in this new "S-Class." With plans to introduce the "S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID," boasting a fuel efficiency of 33 km per liter, within the next year, it is essential to keep a close eye on this king's movements for the foreseeable future.S 500 Plug-in Hybridwill also be introduced, further expanding the lineup. Therefore, it is crucial to pay attention to this champion's movements for some time to come.

Orders for the new "S-Class" will begin on October 1st, with deliveries commencing sequentially from early November.

To commemorate the launch of the S-Class, a special edition model based on the S 550 long, featuring exclusive leather interior and enhanced comfort features, will be released in a limited run of 280 units.S 550 long Edition 1This model is priced at 17.5 million yen.


080507_eac_spec


Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid
Body Dimensions: 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 (12.7 million yen for Exclusive)

Mercedes-Benz S 550 long
Body Dimensions: 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 Dimensions: 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 Dimensions: 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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