The Mercedes-Benz S-Class: A Quiet and Luxurious Driving Experience

Defining the luxury segment in the automobile industry, the S-Class can be experienced with all the senses – seeing, feeling, hearing and smelling – while offering numerous innovations in the areas of driver assistance, protection and interaction. Mercedes-Benz is shaping the next generation of individual mobility with innovations that place the focus on people. The S-Class uses digitisation for a car that responds empathetically to the needs and wishes of its driver and passengers.

“Our best-selling luxury S-Class sedan offers pure driving pleasure and passenger comfort and sets the benchmark for modern luxury features, craftsmanship, safety and cutting-edge technology,” says Shaun Michael, Chief Executive Officer at Mercedes-Benz Oman. “The S-Class has five different drive modes, while the passenger seats can be turned into a mobile office. At Mercedes-Benz Oman, we understand that a test drive is an important step in the car-buying process and we are delighted to offer a unique Mercedes-Benz S-Class test driving experience. We can guarantee that it will be the most comfortable, quiet, and majestic ride of your life.”

 Modern luxury attains the next level in the interior of the S-Class. The designers have created a feel-good ambience with lounge character marked by elegance, high quality, and lightness. The dashboard with its state-of-the-art architecture, modern surface design and ergonomic display arrangement is a particular highlight. But the feel-good aspect goes even deeper: with high ride quality and low noise levels as well as an extensive range of optional ENERGIZING Comfort programmes, the S-Class looks after the well-being of its passengers.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is intelligent in many areas, and the driving experience is at the next level. Digital innovations such as in MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) are joined by innovations that increase driving enjoyment while making driving even safer: among them are rear-axle steering with a large steering angle and safety innovations such as the rear airbag. Following systematic further development, the driving assistance systems are a further step towards autonomous driving. Thanks to improved environmental sensors, for example, the parking systems give the driver even better support when manoeuvring at low speed. The integration into MBUX means that the level of visualisation entered a whole new dimension.

Interesting facts & figures: Sometimes numbers say more than a thousand words

The turning circle is less than 10.9 metres with rear-axle steering. The maximum steering angle is 10°.

27 languages are supported by "Hey Mercedes" with Natural Language Understanding (NLU).

With a Cd figure from 0.22, the S-Class is one of the world's most aerodynamic cars. Its drag coefficient is therefore lower than before, despite a larger frontal area 200 sq. cm.

The resolution of DIGITAL LIGHT per vehicle is over 2.6 million pixels.

The computing power of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) has around the same computing power as 60 average vehicles. l. The memory bandwidth is 41,790 MB/s.

17 step motors control the temperature and air distribution in the Thermotronic system. The 4-zone climate control Thermotronic Rear (optional) even has 20 step motors. These electric motors operate the air flaps.

In the Active Ambience Lighting system (optional), there is an LED in an optical fibre every 1.6 centimetres. There are around 250 in all.

The OLED central display measures 239.06 mm x 218.8 mm, and has an active screen diagonal of 12.8 inches. The screen area is 64 percent larger than in the preceding model. The driver display measures 291.6 mm x 109.4 mm and has a diagonal of 12.3 inches.

The tubular structure of the innovative rear airbag is around 16 litres, while the total volume of the deployed bag is up to 70 litres. 

The designation "S-Class" was officially introduced with the 116 series in 1972. 

More than 98 kg of components made from resource-conserving materials are used in the S-Class. The number of components containing recyclates is now 120 – more than twice as many as in the preceding model. Another 40 kg or so are made from renewable raw materials.

The S-Class is the centrepiece of the brand: legendary engineering expertise and a heritage of craftsmanship meet progressive digital innovation. The S-Class combines artificial intelligence with the experience gained from 135 years of automobile engineering. 

MBUX: a smart, simple and sophisticated infotainment system 

No other innovation in recent years has so radically changed the operation of a Mercedes-Benz as MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The S-Class features the second generation of this learn-capable system. The vehicle interior is even more digital and intelligent, as both the hardware and software have made great strides: brilliant displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, make the control of vehicle and comfort functions even easier. The possibilities for personalisation and intuitive operation have become far more extensive. This certainly applies in the rear, but also to the driver: For example, the 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button. A real three-dimensional effect is achieved without having to wear 3D glasses.

The voice assistant "Hey Mercedes" is even more learn- and dialogue-capable by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword "Hey Mercedes". These include accepting a telephone call. "Hey Mercedes"  also explains vehicle functions and answers general knowledge questions. In the S-Class the voice assistant can also be controlled from the rear.

Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognises and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions. As well as enhancing operating convenience, MBUX Interior Assist improves safety. Even before the journey begins, it notifies the driver if the camera has detected a child seat on the front passenger seat but seat belt is not fastened, for example.

Dimensional concept and interior design: Generous ambience with a lounge-like nature

The S-Class has always been a place for comfortable travel and relaxed working. With this generation, the interior has fully evolved into a "third place", a refuge between the home and workplace. Nearly all comfort-related dimensions of both variants, the S-Class with short and long wheelbase, have been improved in the front as well as on the rear seats. The sense of space is accordingly generous.

Here are the most important dimensions:

The desired harmony between digital and analogue luxury results in a revolutionary interior design, including associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. The systematic reduction in the number of controls underscores the minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth. 

4. Alongside up to five screens, the highlights include the large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear (in the Comfort Seat variant). These flow around the passengers and are a systematic further development of the wrap-around effect. One particularly attractive version of the trim is an open-pored wood veneer shot through with inlays of real aluminium that follow the contours. Design elements include the flat, four-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles. Two slim, vertical side vents on each side round off the ends of the dashboard. 

The driver display and media display offer a comprehensive aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be individualised with a choice of four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).

Seats: Plenty of high-tech for outstanding long-distance comfort

The seats literally invite the occupants to sit down and relax. The flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness. Different finishes give the seats different characters. For example, the flowing longitudinal piping of Lugano leather lends them a noble, avantgarde look, while the progressive diamond pattern of nappa leather and Exclusive nappa leather is more classical and expressive.

Up to 19 motors in the front seats make for comfortable seating – a number that indicates the complexity of the technology installed in the seats. Yet comfort is not enough: the seats also play a major part where safety is concerned. And of course, when it comes to luxurious wellbeing, all the seats available for the S-Class carry the seal of approval by the Healthy Seating campaign.

Five different rear seat variants make it possible to configure the rear of the S-Class as a working or rest area. One new feature is the heated additional cushion for the head restraint, which is available for the two electrically adjustable rear seats. The adjustment range and angle of the front passenger seat in the chauffeur configuration and the reclining seat behind it have been improved as well.

Automated driving and driving assistance systems: Even more support for the driver

In the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz comes another big step closer to its vision of accident-free driving. The driver is supported by numerous innovative or extended driving assistance systems. He/she thereby has a reduced workload in day-to-day situations, and is able to drive comfortably and safely. When danger threatens, the assistance systems can respond to impending collisions as the situation demands. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display.

Thanks to improved environmental sensors, the parking systems give the driver even better support when manoeuvring at low speed. Operation is faster and more intuitive thanks to integration into MBUX. The optional rear-axle steering is integrated into the parking assistants, with the calculation of trajectories adapted accordingly. Emergency braking functions serve to protect other road users, too. 

Suspension systems: more manoeuvrable and dynamic with rear axle steering

Innovative suspension systems ensure an impressive travel experience in the S-Class. Rear-axle steering (optional) with a steering angle of up to 10° improves manoeuvrability in urban areas to the level of a compact car. Even for the S-Class with a long wheelbase and all-wheel drive, the turning circle is reduced by 1.9 metres to less than 10.9 metres.

The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment. Close networking between all the suspension and control systems ensures maximum stability and safety. The innovative PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side function is available in the S-class as part of the manufacturer’s measures in the pre-accident phase.

Exterior design: Perfect proportions for a classical appearance

With a short front overhang, a long wheelbase and a balanced rear overhang, the S-Class is designed as a classical sedan with perfect proportions. The wide track and flush-mounted wheels with modern designs give the vehicle a muscular look. The so-called character lines have been greatly reduced along the sides. Cleverly contoured surfaces with a sculptured look create special light effects. The front section impresses with its high-status radiator grille. 

The headlamps characterise the front aspect of the car. They have the three-point daytime driving light signature that is typical of the S-Class, but this is flatter and somewhat smaller overall. The flush-mounted door handles are a completely new development. They are electrically extended when the driver approaches, or the outer surface of the door handle is stroked. Keyless access is provided by KEYLESS-GO. 

The dynamic appearance of the car is continued at the rear. Thanks to precisely designed, highly detailed interior features and certain animated functions, the rear lights contribute to the impression of high quality. They make the S-Class unmistakable in both their day and night design.

The lights: With innovative digital technology both inside and out

The optional DIGITAL LIGHT system enters series production for the first time at Mercedes-Benz. This makes completely new assistance functions possible.

In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. This allows highly precise light distribution. It makes Highbeam Assist over 100 times more precise then 84-pixel light when excluding oncoming traffic or road signs from the light beam. Light/shadow graduations and the light distribution of all the other adaptive light functions are also realised with considerably more precision, optimising illumination by e.g. fog light, motorway light or city light. 

Thanks to LED technology, the S-Class has also taken a leap forward in its interior lighting: Mercedes-Benz has now realised interactive interior lighting for the first time. The active ambient lighting (optional) is integrated into the driving assistance systems, and is able to reinforce alerts visually. This also makes corresponding feedback possible for the comfort systems. This applies to the climate control system or the 'Hey Mercedes' voice assistant.

Aerodynamics: Extensive airflow simulations in the early development phase

With a Cd figure from 0.22, the S-Class is one of the world's most aerodynamic cars, and especially so in the luxury sedan segment. Although the frontal area (A) of the S-Class has increased slightly to 2.5 sq. m., the drag coefficient has been reduced even further compared to the preceding model. The product of Cd and A is 0.56 sq. m., which is 200 sq. cm less than for the previous model after its last facelift. Aerodynamic measures affecting the body, underbody and detachable parts allow a good showing in the wind tunnel and in real operation. Extensive airflow simulations were already carried out using high-performance computer clusters during an early development phase. 

The S-Class has also achieved further improvements in aeroacoustics. The previous generation already excelled with a very high level of interior noise comfort. This model is even quieter. The high rigidity of the bodyshell provides the basis for outstanding noise and vibration comfort, and this is enhanced with fine-tuning. For example, the apertures for the cable grommets in the firewall have double seals. To achieve an engine sound that is perceived as refined and unobtrusive in the interior, the firewall insulation has been extended into the side areas of the A-pillars and the floor area. Mercedes-Benz is also using acoustic foam in certain bodyshell sections for the first time.

Powertrain: More electrification, more efficiency

Six-cylinder in-line petrol engines in various output classes are the first engine variants for the S-Class. A V8 engine with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48-volt onboard electrical system will be available soon after. 

The model range at the launch of the S-Class 

Vehicle body and accident protection: New frontal airbags for rear passengers

Intelligent bodyshell design and innovations in restraint systems confirm the leading role of the S-Class when it comes to passive safety. The new aluminium hybrid bodyshell with an aluminium content exceeding 50 percent meets numerous requirements: A high level of crash safety, lower weight and a highly rigid bodyshell ensure outstanding handling characteristics accompanied by excellent noise and vibration comfort.

In 2019, in the Experimental Safety Vehicle ESF 2019, Mercedes-Benz presented the ideas the company's safety specialists are working on. Among the more than 20 innovations were near-series developments such as the rear airbag, which became available as optional equipment in the S-Class. The frontal airbag for the rear seat deploys particularly gently thanks to its innovative construction using a tubular structure. During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seat belt wearing occupants on the outer rear seats. 

During a severe side impact, depending on the direction of impact, impact severity and front seat occupancy, the centre airbag positions itself between the driver and front passenger seat, reducing the risk of their heads making contact. It is integrated into the driver's seatback in the middle of the vehicle.

Sustainability: Environmentally compatible development

More than 98 kg of components made from resource-conserving materials are used in the S-Class. The number of components containing recyclates is now 120 – more than twice as many as in the preceding model. Another 40 kg or so are made from renewable raw materials. The process of environmentally compatible development with specific targets is firmly embedded in the overall development process. Environmental aspects are already taken into account in the conceptual phase.

A recycled thread is used for the floor coverings. This thread - brandname ECONYL® - consists of regenerated Nylon. It is manufactured by recovering Nylon waste destined for the landfill, for example old fish nets and fabric remnants from mills and carpets. These are collected and transformed into a thread having the same properties as nylon from new raw materials. The recycling process used to produce the thread saves CO2 in comparison with new production. It also enables Mercedes-Benz to keep materials in circulation.

History: Setting the standard for the luxury class for many decades

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class follows a long tradition that extends back to the beginnings of the Mercedes brand in the early 20th Century. Each model has decisively influenced the automotive engineering of its era. Well before the official designation S-Class, the models in the executive and luxury class were the mainstay of the Stuttgart-based company's portfolio and have always stood for luxury, comfort, safety and lifestyle. The continuous ancestry of the S-Class begins with the model 220 (W 187) of 1951. The designation "S-Class" was officially introduced with the 116 series in 1972.