Mercedes-Benz W221
Encyclopedia
The Mercedes-Benz W221 is a chassis code of S-Class
, the successor of Mercedes-Benz W220
.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Maybach
- the larger saloon from Daimler AG's flagship brand, which was presented to public in 1997.
Inside, the W221's interior is also significantly different from the preceding model. The interior features an instrument cluster shroud that also contains the navigation screen, with silver effect air vents below, and a square, analog clock
within the vents. Below the vents are metal tab switches with a black field behind them, to control the HVAC
system. On the center console, a metal control wheel for the COMAND
system sits above a piece of wood, surrounded by metal buttons. Throughout the interior, many buttons are metal, with black fields above them denoting the switches' function.
The W221 is slightly larger in all dimensions than the W220, with a longer wheelbase
and more interior room.
The S-Class is only available in the long-wheelbase form in the USA.
The updated models went on sale in June 2009. Early models include S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, S 450 CDI, S 350, S 400 HYBRID, S 450, S 500, S 600.
, 17-inch light-alloy wheels with reduced rolling resistance tyres.
Germany model has MSRP of €70,864.50 (incl. VAT) for short-wheelbase version, €78,718.50 (incl. VAT) for long-wheelbase version.
and the first hybrid car
to adopt a lithium ion battery
. The battery pack was supplied by Continental AG
and the cells were provided by Johnson Controls-Saft. The S400 BlueHybrid was unveiled in the 2009 Chicago Auto Show
. US models went on sale in August 2009, but were delivered to dealers in 2009-10. Japan models went on sale in October 2009.
The 3.5 liter V6 engine in the vehicle, combined with the hybrid system, develops 295 hp and 284 lbft of torque. It gets 19 miles per US gallon (8.1 km/L) in the city and 26 miles per US gallon (11.1 km/L) on the highway.
The vehicle was unveiled in the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles (ESV) Conference in Stuttgart.
The vehicles were delivered beginning in late 2008. The production launch marked the 80th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz special-protection unit.
, Mexico
also produces a police spec model of the S-600, the S-600P. The S-600P is similar to the standard S-600 but is equipped with the dual turbocharged V-12 engine of the S65 AMG and includes police lights, siren, run flat tires, a gun mount, a Lanix computer station integrated with the host police network, optional prisoner cage and restraint seats, and level B6/B7 armoring. The S-600P is only built in Mexico and only comes in long-wheelbase version. The Mexican government uses S-600Ps mainly for transporting important figures, but several police departments in wealthier cities in the country use them as patrol vehicles, as does the Mexican Federal Police in limited numbers. A small number of S-600P were purchased by the police department of Guangzhou
, China
for protection of key government figures.
V8 engine
rated 525 PS and 630 N·m (465 ft·lbf).
The Interior of the S63 AMG comes in supple German Leather, coming in the standard leather, or diamond texture, with black and chrome trim on the dash and center console (front and back row). The S63 comes with a variety of luxury features, including but not limited to; dual-zone automatic climate control, rear-seat DVD entertainment, built-in navigation, and heated and cooled front and rear seats, to name a few in the long list of standard features.
The S63 AMG sports an aluminum and steel body with 19" light-alloy multispoke wheels in the front and back, shod with 255/40 tires in front, and 275/40 tires in the rear, and covered with a high-sheen finish. The S63 will feature LED turn signals in front, and in the back, 52 LEDS form a "C" on both tail lights. In front, the S63 will feature a more pronounced, arrow-shaped radiator grille, and "6.3 AMG" on the front wing, and newly redesigned exterior mirrors. In the rear, the S63 will have new AMG sport exhaust with two sets of double chromed tips. The S63 will also feature squared-off front headlamps with LED lights in addition to the traditional lights.
In 2009, the engines had reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3%. Styling changes include arrow-shaped radiator grille, AMG-specific daytime running lights, two transverse air outlets on each side, "6.3 AMG" lettering on the front wings, redesigned exterior mirrors, 52-LED tail lights. Active Body Control provides crosswind stabilisation as standard equipment. Torque Vectoring Brake is added. Interior include PASSION leather upholstery, AMG-specific analogue clock featuring an IWC design.
S 65 AMG includes Mercedes-Benz M275
V12 engine
rated 612 PS and 1000 N·m (738 ft·lbf), restyled front and rear bumpers and rocker panels, larger wheels, brakes, and tires, four exhaust pipes, modified and reprogrammed suspension for sport biased handling, and various interior changes.
Optional accessories include:
The vehicles went on sale in June 2009, with S 65 AMG available in long-wheelbase version only.
The vehicles were unveiled in 2009 Shanghai Motor Show.
As the name suggests, the car is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine which produces 150 kW (204 PS / 201 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. Despite this relatively small engine, the S 250 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and hits a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). More importantly, fuel consumption is 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers (41.2 mpg US) while CO2 emissions are 149 g/km.
To get those class leading figures, Mercedes outfitted the engine with twin-turbochargers and a start/stop system. Furthermore, engineers "extensively revised" the seven-speed automatic transmission (called the 7G-TRONIC PLUS) for improved efficiency.
headlights and restyled trunk, LED head and tail lamps, a revised air dam, restyled flanks without the wheelhouse bulges, door handles that fit flush into the body, AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, on all 4 seats. The car also contains pillarless windows that provide an unobstructed view for occupants when the large soft top is down.
Other features include aluminum wheels with 275/35ZR21 tires.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2007 NAIAS.
S 280 is only sold in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Asia(badged as S 300)
S 350 CDI 4MATIC is badged as S 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY in Germany.
S 500 is badged as S 550 in Canada, US and Japan market.
automatic transmission
. Models with non-V12 engines have 7G-TRONIC
transmission. S 350, S 350 4MATIC, S 400 Hybrid, S 450, S 450 4MATIC, S 500 include 7G-TRONIC
Sport transmission.
S 65 AMG included five-speed automatic SPEEDSHIFT transmission with DIRECT SELECT.
Models with 7G-TRONIC transmission include DIRECT SELECT, which allows 7G-TRONIC to be electronically controlled by touching the lever on the right-hand side of the steering column.
Beginning in 2009, S 63 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission, S 65 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-speed automatic transmission.
except for 4MATIC models. S 63 AMG, S 600 L, S 65 L AMG include Active Body Control
as standard.
4MATIC models were unveiled in 2006 Paris Motor Show. Initial products include S 450 4MATIC and S 500 4MATIC, followed by S320 CDI 4MATIC in 2006-12, then S 350 4MATIC in mid 2007. All 4MATIC models were made in short and long wheelbases. S 320 CDI 4MATIC was replaced by S 350 CDI 4MATIC.
The W221 also contains many other safety features, including front and rear crumple zones, eight dual-stage air bags, seatbelt pre-tensioning devices, anti-lock brakes (ABS), collapsible steering column, and traction control
.
Initial Quality Study, the W221 tied for first ranking in its category (with the Audi A8) for having the fewest quality problems in the industry after 90 days of ownership. The W221 was given the Bild am Sonntag 2006 Golden Steering Wheel Award in the Luxury category, Drive Car of the Year Awards Best Luxury Car over A$60,000, and top luxury auto in the Topauto 2006 awards. Safety awards include Popular Mechanics
2007 Automotive Excellence Award for Safety, 2007's What Car?
Safety Award, and 2006 British Insurance Car Security Award. Design awards include Wheels Magazine
's 2006 Automotive Design Award, Automotive Circle International (ACI) "EuroCarBody Award 2005", Topauto 2006 award winner in the Innovation category for the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, and 2006 Automotive Interior of the Year Awards for Best Seat.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a series of luxury sedans produced by Mercedes-Benz, a division of Daimler AG. The classification was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116 S-Class, which succeeded previous Mercedes-Benz models dating to the mid-1950s...
, the successor of Mercedes-Benz W220
Mercedes-Benz W220
The Mercedes-Benz W220 was a series of flagship sedans which constituted the Mercedes-Benz S-Class during the early-to-mid 2000's. Development for the W220 S-Class started in 1992, with the final design being approved in 1996 spanning a total of 38 months. The completed prototypes were presented in...
.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Styling
The W221 S-Class' exterior styling is distinctly different to the W220. The rear styling is similar to the Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is a German manufacturer of automobiles, buses, coaches, and trucks. Mercedes-Benz is a division of its parent company, Daimler AG...
Maybach
Maybach
Maybach-Motorenbau GmbH is a German luxury car manufacturer. It was founded in 1909 by Wilhelm Maybach and his son. The company was originally a subsidiary of Luftschiffbau Zeppelin GmbH and was itself known as Luftfahrzeug-Motorenbau GmbH until 1912.Today, the ultra-luxury car brand is owned by...
- the larger saloon from Daimler AG's flagship brand, which was presented to public in 1997.
Inside, the W221's interior is also significantly different from the preceding model. The interior features an instrument cluster shroud that also contains the navigation screen, with silver effect air vents below, and a square, analog clock
Clock
A clock is an instrument used to indicate, keep, and co-ordinate time. The word clock is derived ultimately from the Celtic words clagan and clocca meaning "bell". A silent instrument missing such a mechanism has traditionally been known as a timepiece...
within the vents. Below the vents are metal tab switches with a black field behind them, to control the HVAC
HVAC
HVAC refers to technology of indoor or automotive environmental comfort. HVAC system design is a major subdiscipline of mechanical engineering, based on the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer...
system. On the center console, a metal control wheel for the COMAND
Comand APS
Cockpit Management and Data system - COMAND for short - acts as a “command center” for all audio, telematics and telecommunications functions on Mercedes-Benz vehicles...
system sits above a piece of wood, surrounded by metal buttons. Throughout the interior, many buttons are metal, with black fields above them denoting the switches' function.
The W221 is slightly larger in all dimensions than the W220, with a longer wheelbase
Wheelbase
In both road and rail vehicles, the wheelbase is the distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels.- Road :In automobiles, the wheelbase is the horizontal distance between the center of the front wheel and the center of the rear wheel...
and more interior room.
The S-Class is only available in the long-wheelbase form in the USA.
2009 facelift
The revised 2010 S-Class was announced on Apr 08, 2009 at Stuttgart. The minor model update includes minor cosmetic changes and several new features:- Adaptive Highbeam Assist - detects vehicles with their lights on which are travelling towards or ahead of the car in which the system is fitted and controls the headlamps to ensure the largest possible range without dazzling other drivers.
- Blind Spot Assist - warning indicator on side mirror activates if vehicle detected in blind spot.
- Lane Keeping AssistLane departure warning systemIn road-transport terminology, a lane departure warning system is a mechanism designed to warn a driver when the vehicle begins to move out of its lane on freeways and arterial roads. These systems are designed to minimize accidents by addressing the main causes of collisions: driver error,...
- detects road markings and senses if the driver is inadvertently straying out of the lane. If so, the driver is warned by short vibrations of the steering wheel. This system can also distinguish between intentional (for example, overtaking or merging) and unintentional lane departures, reducing the number of false alarms. - Speed Limit AssistTraffic sign recognitionTraffic sign recognition is a technology by which a vehicle is able to recognise the traffic signs put on the road e.g. "speed limit" or "children" or "turn ahead". This is part of the features collectively called ADAS. The idea is to improve road safety by assisting the driver. It may happen that...
- identifies speed limit signs in passing and shows the relevant speed limit in the central display. It is standard for S 600. - Attention Assist - continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters to detect driver fatigue and tiredness. Once the system detects behaviour that typically indicates the onset of drowsiness, a warning signal is sounded and "ATTENTION ASSIST. Break!" appears in the instrument cluster. It is not standard on the S 400 HYBRID.
- Active Body Control (ABC) crosswind compensation - uses the sensors of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to vary the wheel load distribution via the ABC spring struts, depending on the direction and intensity of the crosswind, in order to reduce the adverse effects of crosswinds. This is standard on the S 600.
- Torque Vectoring Brake - brakes the inside rear wheel during cornering to enhance handling and safety by reducing understeerUndersteerUndersteer and oversteer are vehicle dynamics terms used to describe the sensitivity of a vehicle to steering. Simply put, oversteer is what occurs when a car turns by more than the amount commanded by the driver...
.
The updated models went on sale in June 2009. Early models include S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, S 450 CDI, S 350, S 400 HYBRID, S 450, S 500, S 600.
S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (2008–2009)
It is a replacement of S 320 CDI with improved fuel efficiency. Changes include on-demand electric hydraulic power steering pump, standstill decoupling for the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmissionAutomatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
, 17-inch light-alloy wheels with reduced rolling resistance tyres.
Germany model has MSRP of €70,864.50 (incl. VAT) for short-wheelbase version, €78,718.50 (incl. VAT) for long-wheelbase version.
S 400 Hybrid (2009-)
The S400 BlueHybrid is a mild hybridMild Hybrid
Mild hybrids are essentially conventional fossil-fuel vehicles equipped with a large electric machine allowing the engine to be turned off whenever the car is coasting, braking, or stopped, yet restart quickly...
and the first hybrid car
Hybrid electric vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional...
to adopt a lithium ion battery
Lithium ion battery
A lithium-ion battery is a family of rechargeable battery types in which lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode during discharge, and back when charging. Chemistry, performance, cost, and safety characteristics vary across LIB types...
. The battery pack was supplied by Continental AG
Continental AG
Continental AG, internally often called Conti for short, is a worldwide leading German manufacturer of tires, brake systems, vehicle stability control systems, engine injection systems, tachographs and other parts for the automotive and transport industries. The company is based in Hanover, Germany...
and the cells were provided by Johnson Controls-Saft. The S400 BlueHybrid was unveiled in the 2009 Chicago Auto Show
Chicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is held annually in February at Chicago's McCormick Placeconvention complex. It is among the largest auto shows in North America....
. US models went on sale in August 2009, but were delivered to dealers in 2009-10. Japan models went on sale in October 2009.
The 3.5 liter V6 engine in the vehicle, combined with the hybrid system, develops 295 hp and 284 lbft of torque. It gets 19 miles per US gallon (8.1 km/L) in the city and 26 miles per US gallon (11.1 km/L) on the highway.
ESF 2009 (2009)
It is a safety research vehicle based on S 400 Hybrid, but with braking bag, Interactive Vehicle Communication.The vehicle was unveiled in the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles (ESV) Conference in Stuttgart.
S 420 CDI (2006-)
The vehicle were delivered beginning in December 2006, with MSRP of short-wheelbase model at €84,448 (net price € 72,800) and the long-wheelbase model at € 92,104 (net price € 79,400).S 600 Guard (2006-)
It is an armoured vehicle with European B6/B7 resistance level. It resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and provides protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, 90L self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system. Other features include Michelin PAX 245-700 R470 AC tires, optional emergency fresh-air system, pneumatic emergency control system for the power windows (operates independently of the on-board electronics), emergency boot opening facility, optional Panic Alarm System, rear camera, heated front windscreen and heated front windows, adjustable doorhold system for all four doors, rear doors that are pulled shut automatically over the last few millimetres, rear electric roller blinds. The vehicle has top speed of 210 km/h (130.5 mph), with GVW of 4200 kg (9,259.4 lb).S 600 Guard Pullman (2008-)
It was based on the Mercedes Benz S 600 L Guard, but in limousine form with an extra-long wheelbase. It includes a rear entrance with increased headroom, 4 seats behind driver partition. Other features included reinforcement of the links between the suspension components and the bodyshell, specifically targeted modification of the suspension components themselves, an additional brace (strut tower brace) between the front suspension struts, two additional steel springs at the rear to complement the air suspension, larger twin-calliper front brake discs.The vehicles were delivered beginning in late 2008. The production launch marked the 80th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz special-protection unit.
S-600P
The Mercedes Benz Mexico factory in TolucaToluca
Toluca, formally known as Toluca de Lerdo, is the state capital of Mexico State as well as the seat of the Municipality of Toluca. It is the center of a rapidly growing urban area, now the fifth largest in Mexico. It is located west-southwest of Mexico City and only about 40 minutes by car to the...
, Mexico
Mexico
The United Mexican States , commonly known as Mexico , is a federal constitutional republic in North America. It is bordered on the north by the United States; on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean; on the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and on the east by the Gulf of...
also produces a police spec model of the S-600, the S-600P. The S-600P is similar to the standard S-600 but is equipped with the dual turbocharged V-12 engine of the S65 AMG and includes police lights, siren, run flat tires, a gun mount, a Lanix computer station integrated with the host police network, optional prisoner cage and restraint seats, and level B6/B7 armoring. The S-600P is only built in Mexico and only comes in long-wheelbase version. The Mexican government uses S-600Ps mainly for transporting important figures, but several police departments in wealthier cities in the country use them as patrol vehicles, as does the Mexican Federal Police in limited numbers. A small number of S-600P were purchased by the police department of Guangzhou
Guangzhou
Guangzhou , known historically as Canton or Kwangchow, is the capital and largest city of the Guangdong province in the People's Republic of China. Located in southern China on the Pearl River, about north-northwest of Hong Kong, Guangzhou is a key national transportation hub and trading port...
, China
China
Chinese civilization may refer to:* China for more general discussion of the country.* Chinese culture* Greater China, the transnational community of ethnic Chinese.* History of China* Sinosphere, the area historically affected by Chinese culture...
for protection of key government figures.
S 63 AMG & S 65 AMG
S 63 AMG includes Mercedes-Benz M156Mercedes-Benz M156 engine
The M156 is the first V8 automobile engine designed autonomously by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Mercedes-AMG, as previous AMG engines have always been based on original Mercedes engines...
V8 engine
V8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
rated 525 PS and 630 N·m (465 ft·lbf).
The Interior of the S63 AMG comes in supple German Leather, coming in the standard leather, or diamond texture, with black and chrome trim on the dash and center console (front and back row). The S63 comes with a variety of luxury features, including but not limited to; dual-zone automatic climate control, rear-seat DVD entertainment, built-in navigation, and heated and cooled front and rear seats, to name a few in the long list of standard features.
The S63 AMG sports an aluminum and steel body with 19" light-alloy multispoke wheels in the front and back, shod with 255/40 tires in front, and 275/40 tires in the rear, and covered with a high-sheen finish. The S63 will feature LED turn signals in front, and in the back, 52 LEDS form a "C" on both tail lights. In front, the S63 will feature a more pronounced, arrow-shaped radiator grille, and "6.3 AMG" on the front wing, and newly redesigned exterior mirrors. In the rear, the S63 will have new AMG sport exhaust with two sets of double chromed tips. The S63 will also feature squared-off front headlamps with LED lights in addition to the traditional lights.
In 2009, the engines had reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3%. Styling changes include arrow-shaped radiator grille, AMG-specific daytime running lights, two transverse air outlets on each side, "6.3 AMG" lettering on the front wings, redesigned exterior mirrors, 52-LED tail lights. Active Body Control provides crosswind stabilisation as standard equipment. Torque Vectoring Brake is added. Interior include PASSION leather upholstery, AMG-specific analogue clock featuring an IWC design.
S 65 AMG includes Mercedes-Benz M275
Mercedes-Benz M275 engine
The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s...
V12 engine
V12 engine
A V12 engine is a V engine with 12 cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of six cylinders, usually but not always at a 60° angle to each other, with all 12 pistons driving a common crankshaft....
rated 612 PS and 1000 N·m (738 ft·lbf), restyled front and rear bumpers and rocker panels, larger wheels, brakes, and tires, four exhaust pipes, modified and reprogrammed suspension for sport biased handling, and various interior changes.
Optional accessories include:
- AMG 20-inch forged wheels with 255/35R20 front and 275/30R20 rear tyres
- AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/piano lacquer
- AMG floor mats
The vehicles went on sale in June 2009, with S 65 AMG available in long-wheelbase version only.
The vehicles were unveiled in 2009 Shanghai Motor Show.
S 250 CDI (2011-)
Mercedes has unveiled the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY at the Paris Motor Show.As the name suggests, the car is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine which produces 150 kW (204 PS / 201 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. Despite this relatively small engine, the S 250 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and hits a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). More importantly, fuel consumption is 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers (41.2 mpg US) while CO2 emissions are 149 g/km.
To get those class leading figures, Mercedes outfitted the engine with twin-turbochargers and a start/stop system. Furthermore, engineers "extensively revised" the seven-speed automatic transmission (called the 7G-TRONIC PLUS) for improved efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz Concept Ocean Drive (2007)
It is a concept vehicle based on long-wheelbase version of S 600, but with two-tone yarn fabric roof. The vehicle features an oversized grille, redesigned LEDLEd
LEd is a TeX/LaTeX editing software working under Microsoft Windows. It is a freeware product....
headlights and restyled trunk, LED head and tail lamps, a revised air dam, restyled flanks without the wheelhouse bulges, door handles that fit flush into the body, AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, on all 4 seats. The car also contains pillarless windows that provide an unobstructed view for occupants when the large soft top is down.
Other features include aluminum wheels with 275/35ZR21 tires.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2007 NAIAS.
Engines
| Model | Years | Engine type/code | Power, Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol engines | |||
| S 280 / S 300 | 2007- | 2997 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
231 PS@6000, 300 N·m (221 ft·lbf)@2400-5000 |
| S 350 | 2005- | 3498 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
272 PS@6000, 350 N·m (258 ft·lbf)@2400-5000 |
| S 350 4MATIC | 2007- | 3498 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
272 PS@6000, 350 N·m (258 ft·lbf)@2400-5000 |
| S 400 HYBRID | 2009- | 3498 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
279 PS@6000, 350 N·m (258 ft·lbf)@2400-5000 |
| 3-phase AC magneto motor (external rotor) | 20 PS@6000, 160 N·m (118 ft·lbf) | ||
| Total | 299 PS@, 385 N·m (284 ft·lbf)@2400-5000 | ||
| S 450, S 450 4MATIC | 2006- | 4663 cc V8 (M273 Mercedes-Benz M273 engine The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M272 V6 introduced in 2004.... ) |
340 PS@6000, 460 N·m (339 ft·lbf)@2700-5000 |
| S 550 | 2005- | 5461 cc V8 (M273 Mercedes-Benz M273 engine The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M272 V6 introduced in 2004.... ) |
388 PS@6000, 530 N·m (391 ft·lbf)@2800-4800 |
| S 550 4MATIC | 2006- | 5461 cc V8 (M273 Mercedes-Benz M273 engine The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M272 V6 introduced in 2004.... ) |
388 PS@6000, 530 N·m (391 ft·lbf)@2800-4800 |
| S 600, S 600 Guard | 2006- | 5513 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
517 PS@5000, 830 N·m (612 ft·lbf)@1800-3500 |
| S 600 Guard Pullman | 2008- | 5513 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
517 PS@5000, 830 N·m (612 ft·lbf)@1800-3500 |
| S 63 AMG | 2006- | 6208 cc V8 (M156 Mercedes-Benz M156 engine The M156 is the first V8 automobile engine designed autonomously by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Mercedes-AMG, as previous AMG engines have always been based on original Mercedes engines... ) |
525 PS@6800, 630 N·m (465 ft·lbf)@5200 |
| S 65 AMG | 2006- | 5980 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
612 PS@4800-5100, 1000 N·m (738 ft·lbf)@2000-4000 |
| Diesel engines | |||
| S 250 CDI | 2009- | 2143 cc I4 Straight-4 The inline-four engine or straight-four engine is an internal combustion engine with all four cylinders mounted in a straight line, or plane along the crankcase. The single bank of cylinders may be oriented in either a vertical or an inclined plane with all the pistons driving a common crankshaft.... turbo (OM651) |
204 PS@4200, 500 N·m (369 ft·lbf)@1600–1800 |
| S 300 BlueTec HYBRID | 2009-2010 | 2987 cc V6 electric motor | Total 265 PS, 560 N·m (413 ft·lbf) |
| S 320 CDI, S 320 CDI 4MATIC | 2006–2008 | 2987 cc V6 Biturbo (OM642 Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine The Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine is a 3.0-liter, 72° 24-valve, aluminum block diesel V6 engine manufactured by the Mercedes-Benz division of Daimler AG as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz inline-5 and -6 engines.... ) |
235 PS@3600, 540 N·m (398 ft·lbf)@1600–2400 |
| S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY | 2008–2009 | 2987 cc V6 Biturbo (OM642 Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine The Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine is a 3.0-liter, 72° 24-valve, aluminum block diesel V6 engine manufactured by the Mercedes-Benz division of Daimler AG as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz inline-5 and -6 engines.... ) |
235 PS@3600, 540 N·m (398 ft·lbf)@1600–2400 |
| S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, S 350 CDI 4MATIC | 2009- | 2987 cc V6 Biturbo (OM642 Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine The Mercedes-Benz OM642 engine is a 3.0-liter, 72° 24-valve, aluminum block diesel V6 engine manufactured by the Mercedes-Benz division of Daimler AG as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz inline-5 and -6 engines.... ) |
235 PS@3600, 540 N·m (398 ft·lbf)@1600–2400 |
| S 350 4MATIC BlueTec (US) | 2012- | 2987 cc V6 Turbo | 240 hp@3600, 455 ft·lbf @1600–2400 |
| S 420 CDI | 2006–2009 | 3996 cc V8 Biturbo (OM629) | 320 PS@3600, 730 N·m (538 ft·lbf)@2200 |
| S 450 CDI | 2009- | 3996 cc V8 Biturbo (OM629) | 320 PS@3600, 730 N·m (538 ft·lbf)@2200 |
S 280 is only sold in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Asia(badged as S 300)
S 350 CDI 4MATIC is badged as S 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY in Germany.
S 500 is badged as S 550 in Canada, US and Japan market.
Transmissions
Models with V12 engines have 5G-TRONIC5G-Tronic
The Mercedes-Benz 5G-TRONIC is an electronically shifted 5-speed overdrive automatic transmission. It is in the process of being replaced by the Mercedes Benz 7G-Tronic Transmission which was introduced in 2003...
automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
. Models with non-V12 engines have 7G-TRONIC
7G-TRONIC
7G-Tronic is Mercedes-Benz's trademark name for its seven-speed automatic transmission. This fifth-generation transmission was introduced in the Autumn of 2003 on 8-cylinder models, and was the first seven-speed automatic transmission ever used on a production vehicle.The 7G-Tronic debuted on five...
transmission. S 350, S 350 4MATIC, S 400 Hybrid, S 450, S 450 4MATIC, S 500 include 7G-TRONIC
7G-TRONIC
7G-Tronic is Mercedes-Benz's trademark name for its seven-speed automatic transmission. This fifth-generation transmission was introduced in the Autumn of 2003 on 8-cylinder models, and was the first seven-speed automatic transmission ever used on a production vehicle.The 7G-Tronic debuted on five...
Sport transmission.
S 65 AMG included five-speed automatic SPEEDSHIFT transmission with DIRECT SELECT.
Models with 7G-TRONIC transmission include DIRECT SELECT, which allows 7G-TRONIC to be electronically controlled by touching the lever on the right-hand side of the steering column.
Beginning in 2009, S 63 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission, S 65 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-speed automatic transmission.
Handling
All models except S 63 AMG, S 600 L, S 65 L AMG use AIRMATIC suspension, with optional Active Body ControlActive Body Control
Active Body Control, or ABC, is the Mercedes-Benz brand name used to describe fully active suspension, that allows control of the vehicle body motions and therefore virtually eliminates body roll in many driving situations including cornering, accelerating, and braking.In the ABC system, a computer...
except for 4MATIC models. S 63 AMG, S 600 L, S 65 L AMG include Active Body Control
Active Body Control
Active Body Control, or ABC, is the Mercedes-Benz brand name used to describe fully active suspension, that allows control of the vehicle body motions and therefore virtually eliminates body roll in many driving situations including cornering, accelerating, and braking.In the ABC system, a computer...
as standard.
4MATIC models were unveiled in 2006 Paris Motor Show. Initial products include S 450 4MATIC and S 500 4MATIC, followed by S320 CDI 4MATIC in 2006-12, then S 350 4MATIC in mid 2007. All 4MATIC models were made in short and long wheelbases. S 320 CDI 4MATIC was replaced by S 350 CDI 4MATIC.
Safety
- Brake Assist Plus: an optional system designed to apportion brake pressure based on pedal speed and distance between the car and objects. This is an evolution of the Brake Assist system found on earlier models, and uses the vehicle's radar, in addition to the usual Brake Assist's monitoring of pedal depression speed, to apply power brake boost as required. This requires the optional adaptive cruise control's radar, so in vehicles not equipped with the latter, standard Brake Assist is substituted.
- Pre-SafePrecrash systemA precrash system is an automobile safety system designed to reduce the severity of an accident. Also known as forward collision warning systems they use radar and sometimes laser sensors to detect an imminent crash...
: a development of the previous Pre-Safe system fitted to the W220 S-Class, which uses vehicle-dynamic sensors to predict collisions, the W221's system also takes into account closing speed, as measured by the vehicle's radarRadarRadar is an object-detection system which uses radio waves to determine the range, altitude, direction, or speed of objects. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations, and terrain. The radar dish or antenna transmits pulses of radio...
. If a collision appears likely, Pre-Safe closes all windows and the sunroof, moves all passenger's seats and their head restraints to a safer position, and tightens the seatbelts. - Electronic Stability ProgramElectronic Stability ControlElectronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go...
(ESP): similar to the systems fitted to other Mercedes vehicles, this system measures driver inputs and compares these to the vehicle's path. If these diverge, ESP brakes single wheels selectively to eliminate oversteer (fishtailing) and understeer (plowing), and reduces engine power, if necessary. - Night View AssistAutomotive night visionAn automotive night vision system is a system to increase a vehicle driver's perception and seeing distance in darkness or poor weather beyond the reach of the vehicle's headlights...
: optional, uses two near-infraredInfraredInfrared light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than that of visible light, measured from the nominal edge of visible red light at 0.74 micrometres , and extending conventionally to 300 µm...
(NIR) illuminators mounted in the headlamp clusters and a sensor in the windshield. The infrared beams are picked up by the sensor and an image is displayed in the instrument cluster. Mercedes-Benz claims that this system provides the same viewable distance as high-beam headlights, without blinding oncoming motorists.
The W221 also contains many other safety features, including front and rear crumple zones, eight dual-stage air bags, seatbelt pre-tensioning devices, anti-lock brakes (ABS), collapsible steering column, and traction control
Traction control system
A traction control system , also known as anti-slip regulation , is typically a secondary function of the anti-lock braking system on production motor vehicles, designed to prevent loss of traction of driven road wheels...
.
Equipment
- Airmatic DC - air suspensionAir suspensionAir suspension is a type of vehicle suspension powered by an engine driven or electric air pump or compressor. This pump pressurizes the air, using compressed air as a spring. Air suspension replaces conventional steel springs. If the engine is left off for an extended period, the car will settle...
, similar to the system fitted to the W211 E-ClassMercedes-Benz W211The Mercedes-Benz W211 is a mid-size luxury car–executive car which was produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz from 2002 to 2009, under the E-Class model names. The W211 models replaced the W210 E-Class models and were superseded by the Mercedes-Benz W212 in 2009...
, uses air springs and adaptive electronic control to sense road and driving conditions and produce a firm or soft ride. The air suspension is only available for the smaller engines up to S 500. The S 600, S 63, and S 65 AMG are equipped with an active suspension system called Active Body ControlActive Body ControlActive Body Control, or ABC, is the Mercedes-Benz brand name used to describe fully active suspension, that allows control of the vehicle body motions and therefore virtually eliminates body roll in many driving situations including cornering, accelerating, and braking.In the ABC system, a computer...
, which is based on steel springs. ABC is also optional on all other models except vehicles equipped with 4Matic all wheel drive. - Distronic Plus - optional, a development of the Distronic system fitted to earlier models. Uses more radarRadarRadar is an object-detection system which uses radio waves to determine the range, altitude, direction, or speed of objects. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations, and terrain. The radar dish or antenna transmits pulses of radio...
systems (long- and short-wave) and improved control logic to detect vehicles ahead and adjust the vehicle's speed to maintain a driver-set distance behind the car in front. The system has more authority over the vehicle than previous Distronic iterations, and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop if necessary, unlike the previous versions.
- Drive-Dynamic seats with massage - optional, an evolution of the system fitted to many other Mercedes models, uses air bladders in the seat bolsters to support the driver during cornering. Also, other air bladders provide a four-mode massage function to front-seat passengers.
- Heated and Active-Ventilated seats, with heating elements for warming the seats and small fans to keep the seats cool and draw perspiration away from occupants.
- harman/kardonHarman Kardonharman/kardon is a division of Harman International Industries and manufactures home and car audio equipment.Founded in 1953 by Dr. Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon — two men with a deep interest in music and the arts — the company helped create the high-fidelity audio industry. Their first product...
Logic7 stereo sound system with 14 speakers, in-dash CD changer and PC CardPC CardIn computing, PC Card is the form factor of a peripheral interface designed for laptop computers. The PC Card standard was defined and developed by the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association which itself was created by a number of computer industry companies in the United States...
slot - Hard-drive based GPSGlobal Positioning SystemThe Global Positioning System is a space-based global navigation satellite system that provides location and time information in all weather, anywhere on or near the Earth, where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites...
satellite navigation system - Revised COMANDComand APSCockpit Management and Data system - COMAND for short - acts as a “command center” for all audio, telematics and telecommunications functions on Mercedes-Benz vehicles...
navigation and radio control system, uses the dash-top display and a central knob to navigate menu choices and options. Most frequently used functions (such as volume) can be controlled by dedicated switches. - Fiber-optic ambient lighting for the dashboard, footwells, and other areas.
- Tele Aid, uses GPS tracking and cell phone service to provide assistance. Can be used for information, to call for roadside assistance, or to call for help in emergencies. Automatically calls for help if an air bag or seatbelt tensioner deploys.
Sales
On 11 May 2009, Mercedes-Benz announced the sale of 270,000 units since the original W221 launch.Production
S 600 Guard and S 600 Guard Pullman were built in Sindelfingen plant with a separate production line.Marketing
As part of the W221 launch campaign, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH introduced a series of 17 products under S-Class Collection, beginning in 2005-09. Products include wrist watch designed with Sindelfingen-based Design Centre, piqué polo shirt, cufflinks, pen, umbrella, key fob, mouse pads, pen cases, cigar set, note pad, wallet, 1/43 S-Class scale model car. Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH also introduced a series of 1,200 units of S-Class vehicle freight train.Awards
In the 2007 J.D. PowerJ.D. Power and Associates
J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services firm founded in 1968 by James David Power III. The firm conducts surveys of customer satisfaction, product quality, and buyer behavior for industries ranging from cars to marketing and advertising firms. The firm is best known for...
Initial Quality Study, the W221 tied for first ranking in its category (with the Audi A8) for having the fewest quality problems in the industry after 90 days of ownership. The W221 was given the Bild am Sonntag 2006 Golden Steering Wheel Award in the Luxury category, Drive Car of the Year Awards Best Luxury Car over A$60,000, and top luxury auto in the Topauto 2006 awards. Safety awards include Popular Mechanics
Popular Mechanics
Popular Mechanics is an American magazine first published January 11, 1902 by H. H. Windsor, and has been owned since 1958 by the Hearst Corporation...
2007 Automotive Excellence Award for Safety, 2007's What Car?
What Car?
What Car? is a long-running UK monthly automobile magazine and website, currently edited by Steve Fowler and published by Haymarket Motoring. First published in 1973, it is intended primarily as a magazine for consumers rather than dedicated automobile enthusiasts...
Safety Award, and 2006 British Insurance Car Security Award. Design awards include Wheels Magazine
Wheels magazine
Wheels is an Australian automotive magazine published monthly by ACP Magazines. The publication is well-renowned by Australian car enthusiasts...
's 2006 Automotive Design Award, Automotive Circle International (ACI) "EuroCarBody Award 2005", Topauto 2006 award winner in the Innovation category for the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, and 2006 Automotive Interior of the Year Awards for Best Seat.