|
by Klaus Weibler
Model: S 320 CDI to S 600
Retail Price: starting at Pounds 55,000 (Euro 70,000 / MSRP US$ 85,000) Competing Models: "Competing Segment" on right side of "Best Autos & Cars in the World" page More information on: www.mercedes-benz.com
|
Mercedes-Benz
presented its new top-of-the-range model, the S-Class, in autumn 2005 at
the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. The new S-Class introduced technical
innovations which make the flagship Mercedes model an example for others
to follow. Pioneering safety features and exemplary comfort are once again
the outstanding attributes of the S-Class. A dozen technical innovations
are entering series production for the first time on board the new S-Class
– from Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensors to dynamic multicontour seats
with an extended massage function, from night view assist with the latest
infra-red technology to the new COMAND system, and from anticipatory PRE-SAFE
occupant protection to the Active Body Control suspension system. Brake
Assist PLUS is available in combination with the likewise improved proximity
control system DISTRONIC PLUS. This radar-supported system now operates
at all speeds between zero and 200 km/h, and ensures even greater driver
comfort. In stop-and-go traffic DISTRONIC PLUS keeps the new S-Class at
the right distance from the vehicle ahead
The
innovative "Cockpit Management and Data System" - COMAND for short – has
likewise been redesigned and now offers even more features. In addition
to the familiar telematic and audio units, various vehicle functions which
previously required individual switches have now been integrated into the
system. The central operating unit is the new COMAND controller on the
transmission tunnel. It is used to select the main and sub-menus with which
the required functions are activated. The handrest can be flipped up to
reveal the telephone keypad. With the innovative night view assist system
which is premiered in the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has made a further,
major contribution to reducing the risk of accidents during the hours of
darkness. This system is based on infrared light, which is invisible to
the human eye and will therefore not dazzle oncoming traffic. The dynamic
multicontour seat is also equipped with separate air chambers in the backrest
which are successively inflated and deflated in a programmed sequence.
Passengers in the new S-Class can therefore enjoy a gentle back massage
which stimulates the back muscles, assists the blood circulation and therefore
helps to prevent premature fatigue.
The
new flagship model by Mercedes-Benz is larger than its predecessor in every
respect. There is a choice of two body lengths - 5076 or 5206 millimetres
– which is 33 and 43 millimetres more, respectively, than the previous
S-Class. These new dimensions create the basis for an interior space concept
which offers all the passengers first-class comfort. The new top-of-the-line
model in the S-Class, the S600, is available from the first quarter of
2006. Thanks to an improved bi-turbo engine, the twelve-cylinder S 600
Saloon develops an output of 517 hp – 17 hp more than previously. Maximum
torque has increased from 800 to 830 Newton metres, while fuel consumpption
has decreased by 0.5 to 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The V12 engine
accelerates the S-Class from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.