Be ahead. The S-Class As in the preceding series, the new S-Class introduces 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. The new S-Class also sets standards in driving dynamics with its agile handling, while offering even more driving pleasure thanks to new, more powerful engines. Dimensions: larger body for outstanding interior comfort The new flagship model by Mercedes-Benz is larger than its predecessor in every respect. - Body length : 5209mm - 43 mm more; 16mm wider and 29mm higher - Wheelbase : 3165mm - increased by 80mm - Boot capacity : increased by 60 litres to 560 litres (VDA measuring method) Performance: over 26 percent more output from the new V8 engine The newly developed engines generate up to 26 percent more output and up to 15 percent more torque. In addition to the 3.5-litre V6 engine with 200kW/272hp, a new eight cylinder unit developing 285kW/388hp and a muscular 530 Newton metres of torque from a mere 2800rpm accelerates the S 500 from standstill to 100km/h in just 5.4 seconds. Suspension: newly configured AIRMATIC air suspension as standard At the touch of a button the driver is able to choose between a comfort-oriented or more sporty configuration. Beyond 120km/h and in Sport mode, the suspension is automatically lowered by up to 20mm to improve the handling dynamics, aerodynamics and fuel consumption even further. Control concept: COMAND system with direct shift buttons and the controller The innovative "Cockpit Management and Data System" - COMAND for short - has been redesigned and now offers even more features. 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. Another new feature which improves operating convenience and allows a thoroughly up-to-date cockpit design is DIRECT SELECT - electronic control of the standard 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission by nudging an attractively styled lever on the right of the steering column. Seats: improved multicontour technology and innovative back massage function The front seats are now equipped with eleven air cushions which enable the seat contours to be individually adjusted. 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 can therefore enjoy a gentle back massage which stimulates the back muscles, assist the blood circulation and therefore helps to prevent permanent fatigue. The massage programme lasts for five minutes and can be restarted at any time once the cycle has finished. Mercedes-Benz development will continue to define the future of safety The integral safety concept - an integrated safety philosophy comprising four successive stages: PERFORM - SAFE 'when comfort also means safety' is based on the Mercedes-Benz belief that driving should be as comfortable and safe as possible comprises all features which relate to safe driving More safety and convenience in stop-and-go traffic... DISTRONIC PLUS This radar-supported system now operates at all speeds between 0 and 200km/h and ensures even greater driver convenience. In stop-and-go traffic DISTRONIC PLUS keeps the new S-Class at the right distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically brakes the Saloon to a standstill if necessary and accelerates it back to the required speed when the traffic starts moving again. Infrared headlamps for improved long-range visibility... Night view assist The system is based on infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye and will therefore not dazzle oncoming traffic. Two infrared headlamps illuminate the road, significantly extending the driver's range of vision when on low beam. An infrared camera mounted on the inside of the windscreen records the reflected image of the road ahead and displays this in the instrument cluster. PRE-SAFE improved occupant protection in critical situations comprises measures which put the occupants and vehicle on standby for a possible impact if a high risk of accident is detected The ESP & BAS sensors identify high-risk situations such as strong oversteer, critical steering movements. PRE-SAFE electronically evaluates this information and if a typical pre-crash situation is identified, precautionary measures are triggered to protect the occupants. PASSIVE-SAFE can provide optimized protection for the passengers if and an accident cannot be avoided they include the newly developed optional luxury head restraint, whose sensor can react with split-second speed to a rear-end impact, causing the head restraint to move forward towards the driver and front passenger. The S-Class of today is equipped with eight airbags, including two windowbags whose protection zone covers the entire area of the side windows. POST-SAFE reduces the secondary effects of an accident comprises all measures which help to raise the level of occupant protection following an accident if necessary, the engine can be turned off automatically and the fuel supply can be cut off. The hazard warning lights and emergency interior lights can be automatically activated, and the side windows can be partially lowered in order to maintain an optimal supply of oxygen. Radar sensors for early accident detection... Brake Assist PLUS This system registers vehicles ahead by radar and gives a warning if the gap is too small or the closing speed is too high. If a collision threatens, Brake Assist PLUS calculates the ideal braking assistance in fractions of a second and makes this available immediately. Effective warning to prevent rear-end collisions... Adaptive brake light Driver reaction times are shortened by up to 0.2 seconds if a flashing read warning signal is given instead of the conventional brake light during emergency braking. Parking by radar... Parking Assist This is available in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS and Brake Assist PLUS. The system uses the four close-range sensors at the front and two radar sensors in the rear bumper to assist the driver when parking or warn him of obstacles when reversing.