Mercedes-Benz’s replacement for the CL-Class, the new S-Class Coupe, made its debut this month at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. Today, we have the first details and photos for the high-performance AMG variant, which will join the regular model in showrooms this fall, as a 2015 model. It's been revealed ahead of its world debut next month at the 2014 New York Auto Show.

The car’s official title is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe. Yes, like its S63 AMG sedan cousin, the new S63 AMG Coupe will be coming with 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard here in the U.S. Other markets will have a rear-wheel-drive version as standard. AMG’s version of 4MATIC features a 33-67 front-rear torque split, offering the rear-biased feel we all love but with the added traction of all-wheel drive when roads get slippery.

Power, meanwhile, will come from AMG’s familiar twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8, which in this application delivers a massive 585 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. For those at home counting, that's the most power we've seen from the engine yet (it's 8 horses more than in the S63 AMG sedan). The engine is paired with AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission and will rocket the svelte coupe to 62 mph from rest in just 3.9 seconds. The rear-wheel-drive model needs about 4.3 seconds to achieve the same feat. Top speed is limited to 186 mph.

Thanks to lightweight design, the car is 140 pounds lighter than its predecessor, the CL63 AMG, though we suspect its performance will still be more akin to a high-speed train than that of an agile sports car--the curb weight is still a hefty 4,400 pounds. Weight-saving measures include the use of a lithium-ion battery, light alloy wheels and carbon ceramic brakes. Furthermore, much of the car (entire skin and front end) is constructed from aluminum.

To aid handling there is a full AIRMATIC air-suspension system with adaptive dampers, stiff anti-roll bars, and a custom frame at the rear axle to help further improve stiffness. The light alloy wheels are an option for the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe and measure 20 inches across. Carbon ceramic brakes are also an option.

The changes to the car’s styling are signature AMG enhancements. The front is dominated by a twin-blade grille, below which sits an aggressive A-wing bumper and splitter. Moving to the sides you’ll notice “V8 BITURBO” badges and a pair of chunky side sills. Meanwhile, at the rear there is an integrated diffuser with a gloss finish and four squared-off exhaust tips.

Inside it’s all luxury. Benefiting from the gorgeous design of the S-Class Coupe's cabin, the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wraparound design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty and exclusive look that is dominated by the AMG bucket seats, embossed AMG logo on the center arm rest, three-spoke sports steering wheel, and AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. Nappa leather is fitted throughout.

Pricing and availability for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe will be announced closer to the car’s sales launch this fall. With the S63 AMG sedan commanding a pricetag of $140,425, including destination, be ready to hand over close to $200k once options are included if you fancy the coupe. There’s a good chance we might also see a V-12-powered S65 AMG Coupe (we already have an S65 AMG sedan), so if money is no option may we suggest keeping an eye out for this beast.

You won't be getting your knee on the ground through every corner, but Mercedes-Benz's latest technology replicates at least one of the sensations of cornering in a motorcycle--leaning into bends.

Active suspension is nothing new, but the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe has a clever function in its Active Body Control suspension system--Dynamic Curve. In turns, special plunger cylinders raise the suspension struts and lower the opposite side, depending on the direction of the bend. This has the result of tilting the carbody slightly towards the inside of the corner, countering centrifugal cornering forces.

Mercedes says it's not designed for increasing cornering speeds, but increasing the pleasure for driver and passengers: lateral forces usually experienced during cornering are now partly translated into vertical forces instead. We're not talking jet-fighter style positive Gs here, more a system that enables you to sit tighter in your seat, rather than sliding across its surface as the car rolls. Active Body Control already counteracts roll, lifting and pitching movements in the suspension; curve tilting just takes the theory a step further.

Mercedes cites two previous concept cars as the inspiration for its tilting coupe--the F300 Life Jet concept from 1997, and 2001's F400 Carving. The former was a three-wheeled vehicle that enclosed occupants in a car-like cabin but tilted up to 30 degrees in bends. The latter was much more car-like, as an open-topped roadster, but featured an alternative take on tilting: its outside wheels tilted up to 20 degrees. The highly-cambered outside wheels paid dividends in roadholding abilities, and reduced the risk of skidding.

Dynamic Curve is just one aspect of an already high-technology suspension system. Available on both the S-Class and S-Class Coupe, Magic Body Control can scan the surface of the road ahead, adjusting the suspension to account for the surface it's about to encounter. Whether short bumps or long undulations, each car should, in theory, deal perfectly with the road you're driving over. With curve tilting, it'll work well in the turns too.

Mercedes' $1 million S-class Pullman upstages Rolls-Royce on price, size

June 26, 2014 11:31 CET

FRANKFURT (Bloomberg) -- The new Mercedes-Benz S-class Pullman will cost more than double the top-of-the-range Rolls-Royce when it goes on sale next year.

The 6400mm (21 feet) Pullmann will also be about 406mm (16 inches) longer than the $474,900 extended wheelbase version of the Rolls-Royce Phantom, making it the biggest series-produced passenger car.

Priced at about $1 million with armor plating and three rows of seats, the vehicle will be reminiscent of past Mercedes models owned by the likes of designer Coco Chanel and former Philippine leader Ferdinand Marcos. The four rear seats will face each other and be separated from a front chauffeur compartment by a partition window to guarantee discretion, according to a person familiar with details of the brand's strategy.

The Pullman will cap an ongoing expansion of Mercedes' high-margin flagship, which was revamped last year, into a line of six models, double the number of variants in the past. The plan includes a sporty coupe that goes on sale this fall.

By increasing its elite offerings, the Daimler unit is challenging BMW Group and Audi to follow as the three vie for the global luxury-car sales lead.

With the new top-end S class, "they are trying to evoke the very famous old 600 Pullman that was used by people from dictators to John Lennon," said Tim Urquhart, a London-based analyst with IHS. "They want to show that Mercedes still stands for an absolute elite, luxury and opulence. There's symbolic value to this kind of car."
CEO Dieter Zetsche is counting on the S class to advance his goal of overtaking BMW and Audi in profit and deliveries by the end of the decade. The CEO reviewed at least a dozen versions of the design and tested the car in Germany's Black Forest, South Africa, Sweden and the United States to find the right balance between comfort and handling.

First bend
"We set out with the ambition to build the best car in the world," Zetsche said in an interview on Wednesday while driving through the rolling countryside of Italy's Tuscany region where Mercedes is showing the S-class coupe to the press. "It's great when you hit that first bend and realize that this is a level the competition can't reach," said the CEO, who cleared the S class for sale only after his 12th test drive.

The 126,000 euro ($172,000) S-class coupe, which will compete with the likes of the Bentley Continental GT, goes on sale in October in the United States. The coupe includes flourishes such as optional LED headlights featuring a total of 94 Swarovski crystals and a rear-view camera that swings out from the Mercedes star in the back. It's the line's third model after the base version and an extended wheelbase variant both hit the market last year.

Maybach version
Mercedes plans to present an extra-long Maybach edition of the S class in November at auto shows in Los Angeles and Guangzhou, China, said the person who asked not to be identified before an official announcement.
The car will resurrect the name of Daimler's ultra-luxury brand that was discontinued in 2012 as it struggled to compete with Rolls-Royce and Bentley. A convertible version of the Mercedes flagship is due late next year, the person said.

"With the S class, we're offering a package of technologies that nobody can compete with and a quality that expresses the highest exclusivity," said Zetsche, who approved the car after a final drive in the Swabian Alps in spring 2012. The route included slopes and curves and rough roads to test the suspension and noise levels. S-class deliveries are forecast to surge 63 percent to 98,600 vehicles this year, beating the combined total of 88,100 for BMW's 7 series and Audi's A8, according to IHS Automotive.


Mercedes' current Pullman, the S600 Guard, was unveiled at the Paris auto show in 2008.


Signature vehicle
"The S class is a decisive signature vehicle for the brand and very profitable at the same time," said Juergen Pieper, a Frankfurt-based analyst with Bankhaus Metzler, who estimates that the car has an operating profit margin of 12 percent to 15 percent. "Its importance goes far beyond its sales figures."

Daimler, which targets a margin of at least 10 percent for Mercedes, declined to release profitability figures on individual models, citing company policy. The automaker also declined to comment on future model plans. By adding more variants at the top end of its lineup, Mercedes is looking to balance out its increasing dependence on compact cars. Sales of models like the A class will make up 30 percent of the brand's global vehicle sales this year, compared with half that in 2011, according to IHS. That push for volume comes with risks to its image.

"The myth of the star might get lost on the way," said Patrick Welter, who publishes the German S-club magazine. "They have to be careful that they don't diversify too much. They're losing part of the exclusivity."

The S 65 AMG Coupé is the new twelve-cylinder top-of-the-range model in the S-Class Coupé series. Unique drive comfort, benchmark performance and exquisite appointments are all hallmarks of this two-door vehicle. The irresistible contours of the V12 Coupé are accentuated by a host of expressive design elements in high-sheen chrome. The AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, with an output of 463 kW (630 hp) and 1000 newton metres of torque, is unique in its segment, as is the AMG sports suspension, based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL with curve tilting function and ROAD SURFACE SCAN.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "There are AMG fans for whom our V12 biturbo engine is the measure of all things. For this clientele we have developed a unique car in the form of the new S 65 AMG Coupé. From driving dynamics to comfort and equipment – our new twelve-cylinder coupé surpasses even the highest of expectations."

Mercedes-AMG's unique range and long V12 tradition

Coupé, Saloon, Roadster and Off-roader: following the S 65 AMG, the SL 65 AMG and the G 65 AMG, the new S 65 AMG Coupé is the fourth AMG high-performance car with a V12 engine. No other car manufacturer in the world offers such a wide portfolio of twelve-cylinder vehicles as Mercedes-AMG. Back in 2003 the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz presented a coupé with a powerful V12 biturbo engine in the form of the CL 65 AMG (C215 model series). Its successor, the CL 65 AMG (C216 model series) was available between 2007 and 2014 and was the direct predecessor to the new S 65 AMG Coupé.

Twelve-cylinder engines are still considered the pinnacle of engine design. Among connoisseurs the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine in particular is seen as an outstanding example of its type. Open the bonnet of the S 65 AMG Coupé, and it is immediately obvious why: the exclusive carbon fibre/aluminium engine cover is synonymous with the exceptional strengths of the V12 engine, built in Affalterbach according to the "one man, one engine" principle. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician's signature is also a clear testament to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

A sensational drive and effortlessly superior performance

The AMG V12 delivers a peak output of 463 kW (630 hp) and a maximum torque of 1000 newton metres – resulting in effortlessly superior performance: the S 65 AMG Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). In other respects too the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine assures a sensational drive: stylish drive comfort, tremendous pulling power and effortless power delivery in all speed ranges are coupled with refined engine running characteristics and the distinctive typical sound of the AMG V12.

A glance at the consumption and emissions figures shows that the AMG V12 is fit for the future: with fuel consumption of 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres as per NEDC combined (equivalent to 279 g/km CO2), the S 65 AMG Coupé is significantly more economical than all of its rivals. Compared with the previous CL 65 AMG model, consumption has been reduced by 2.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). The twelve-cylinder top-of-the-range model complies with the EU6 emissions standard.

Technical highlights of the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine:

Biturbocharging
Aluminium crankcase
Forged crankshaft in high-grade alloy steel
Multi-spark ignition with 12 twin-spark ignition units
Air-to-water intercooler with low-temperature circuit
Alternator management
ECO start/stop function
Power transmission with three individual driving modes

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC is responsible for transmitting power to the rear axle. The transmission offers three individual modes: the driver can choose between Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M) by pushing a button on the centre console. Sport and Manual emphasise the vehicle's dynamism: the ultimate emotional appeal and tangible sportiness are ensured by the brief, precisely defined cutback of ignition and injection when shifting up a gear under full load. This shortens shift times and lends an audibly more emotive tone to gearshifts. The ECO start/stop function is activated in transmission mode "C".

Lithium-ion battery reduces weight by over 20 kg

The S 65 AMG Coupé features a lithium-Ion battery as standard. This innovative technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept: with a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 20 kg.

AMG sports suspension with curve tilting function

The AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL delivers an incomparable driving sensation. The standard combination of Active Body Control (ABC), ROAD SURFACE SCAN and curve tilting function is unique. This function allows the S 65 AMG Coupé to lean into bends in a manner similar to a motorcyclist or skier. The lateral acceleration acting on the occupants is similar to driving in a banked curve. On country roads in particular, the curve tilting function heightens motoring enjoyment and comfort. The object is not to reach higher cornering speeds, but to produce an even more pleasant motoring experience. The curve tilting function can be selected as one of three drive modes using the ABC switch; it is active in the speed range from 15 to 180 km/h.

On bends the vehicle inclines automatically and continuously in fractions of a second – depending on the curve radius and vehicle speed. The innovative suspension system detects curves using both a stereo camera behind the windscreen, registering the curvature of the road up to 15 metres ahead, and an additional lateral acceleration sensor. The curve tilting function is making its debut in the S 63 AMG Coupé and S 65 AMG Coupé.

ROAD SURFACE SCAN is a technology that can detect surface undulations in advance with the help of a stereo camera. MAGIC BODY CONTROL then adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation, effectively compensating for irritating chassis movement. Both suspension modes - "Comfort" and "Sport" - are also available here. In addition the AMG sports suspension on the S 65 AMG Coupé features specific elastokinematics – the driver therefore benefits from more directness with a dynamic driving style.

Speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio

The electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio perfectly complements the sophisticated suspension technology: it optimises vehicle handling and agility while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. In "Comfort" suspension mode, the speed-sensitive sports steering enhances comfort by providing more steering assistance. If the "Sport" suspension setting is selected, on the other hand, the driver feels a sportily stiff level of steering assistance. The pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback from the road surface and steering precision.

Polished forged wheels with fully integrated wheel bolt cover

The S 65 AMG Coupé features forged wheels in a multi-spoke design, size 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tyres. The exclusive forged wheels of the V12 Coupé fascinate with their exceptional design which represents a contemporary interpretation of the classic sports car rims: each of the 16 spokes twists so that the light-catching contours radiate to the centre of the wheel hub. The effect: the wheel gives the impression of being even bigger.

The matchless visual superiority of the ceramically polished, high-sheen AMG forged wheels is the result of an elaborate finishing process: initial polishing is followed by manual grinding of the light-alloy wheels. Two polishing stages using different grinding pellets ensure the desired deep sheen. Having been cleaned, the wheels undergo final treatment, including sealing with clear varnish.

As standard the forged wheels feature a high-quality, screw-on, fully integrated wheel bolt cover in forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a centre lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG lettering is incorporated into the rim as a design element. Three further forged wheels in the same format are available as optional alternatives – one design variant with a matt black finish and high-sheen rim flange.

Optional ceramic high-performance composite brake system

The AMG high-performance composite brake system features brake callipers with a grey finish. Red callipers are available as an option. A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. The design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort.

Design: irresistible contours, lavishly accentuated with chrome

Supreme sportiness combined with the sensual clarity typical of Mercedes-Benz – the irresistible contours of the S 65 AMG Coupé are a captivating sight. V12-specific features include the countless design elements in high-sheen chrome at the front, sides and rear which are particularly effective in conjunction with dark paintwork: the large central Mercedes star on the front apron, the "twin blade" radiator grille, all of the air intake grilles, the trim strip on the "A-wing", the side flics (air deflector elements) and the front splitter are chromed-trimmed. The three-dimensional front splitter reduces lift at the front axle, while the gap above the front splitter ensures an effective flow of air to the separate engine oil cooler behind it.

At the side, the eye is drawn to the "V12 BITURBO" lettering on the wings and the high-sheen chrome inserts in the side skirts – which harmonise perfectly with the high-sheen polished forged wheels. The rear view is also memorable: the AMG sports exhaust system's two chromed twin tailpipes in V12 design are integrated into the rear apron. Above the distinctive diffuser insert, painted in high-gloss black, the trim element forms an effective contrast: It echoes the design of the "A-wings" on the front apron and is finished in high-sheen chrome.

Interior: equipment, quality and ambience of the highest standard

The extraordinary character is also evident on the inside: the S 65 AMG Coupé welcomes its occupants with an incomparably exquisite ambience. This two-door car features the finest materials, the highest manufacturing quality and an extensive range of standard equipment. In visual terms, the interior is dominated by the sports seats. The upholstery in designo AMG Exclusive nappa leather with seat upholstery layout in a diamond-pattern design boasts delineated perforations: the perforations deliberately avoid the areas where stitching features in the nappa leather. The result is exceptionally neat seams and an unrivalled impression of quality.

Exclusively developed AMG sports seats ensure optimal long-distance comfort. Electric adjustment, memory function, seat heating and climate control are standard features. More contoured seat cushions and backrests improve lateral support when cornering at speed. High-quality AMG badges feature as standard on all four backrests, and the AMG logo is embossed on the front centre console.

Other features of the Exclusive package include the nappa leather roof liner, a leather-lined dashboard, door centre panels in a diamond-pattern design, leather-clad roof grab handles, chromed door pins and AMG stainless steel door sill panels, illuminated in white. Customers ordering designo AMG Exclusive nappa leather upholstery are able to choose between black, porcelain/espresso brown, saddle brown/black and crystal grey/black.

New sports steering wheel in three-spoke design

The new three-spoke sports steering wheel allows perfect vehicle control. It features shift paddles, a distinctly contoured rim, trimmed with perforated leather in the grip area, and a metal insert featuring AMG lettering.

Another typical AMG speciality is the AMG instrument cluster: information on the engine speed, vehicle speed and much more appears on two animated round dials on the 31.2 centimetre, high-resolution colour TFT display. The typography, the needles in red/silver, the speedometer with its 360 km/h scale and the "V12 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter all have a specifically AMG look. When the driver's door is opened, an AMG start-up screen appears on the right-hand display, while an animated S 65 AMG Coupé appears in the instrument cluster.

Extensive standard equipment with head-up display and touchpad

The extensive range of standard equipment for the S 65 AMG Coupé includes the head-up display and the touchpad. The head-up display projects key information such as the vehicle speed, speed limits, navigation directions, traffic signs and information from DISTRONIC PLUS onto the windscreen. The visualisation of the engine speed and the current gear is exclusive to AMG. In Manual transmission mode, a coloured upshift bar and the possible gears for a manual gear change are also protected onto the windscreen. The virtual colour display, measuring 21 x 7 centimetres, appears to hover above the bonnet at a distance of around two metres from the driver. The innovative Mercedes-Benz touchpad makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. In contrast to conventional systems, the touchpad can be used to operate all of the infotainment functions. The input area is approximately 6.5 x 4.5 centimetres in size and is integrated into the handrest with a cover for the keypad.

Intelligent Drive: new standards in safety

The S 65 AMG Coupé also sets new standards in terms of active and passive safety: what began with PRE-SAFE® ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have merged into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this Intelligent Drive. New systems make the new S-Class Coupé even more comfortable and safe.

Standard equipment for the S 65 AMG Coupé includes (selection):

- 360° camera
- Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
- Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system
- Driving Assistance package Plus, including DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, PRE-SAFE® Brake, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE® PLUS
- Seat Comfort package for driver and front passenger
- Upholstery in AMG Exclusive nappa leather
- KEYLESS-GO package
- Orders can now be placed for the S 65 AMG Coupé. The market launch at Mercedes-Benz sales outlets and authorised dealerships will take place at the end of September.

S 65 AMG Coupé: €244,009.50
Recommended retail price for Germany, incl. 19% VAT

Mercedes-Benz has updated its range of special protection models with the new S 600 Guard based on the new S-Class. The S 600 Guard provides all-round protection to the level of resistance class VR9 (both in transparent and non-transparent areas). With first-class comfort, an outstanding AIRMATIC suspension, powerful V12 engine, intelligent driver assistance systems and unrestricted day-to-day suitability, the new flagship Guard model sets an unprecedented new standard in this segment, seamlessly continuing the long tradition of armoured special protection models from Mercedes-Benz.

With its Guard models, Mercedes-Benz has the world's widest range of special protection vehicles available ex factory. The Mercedes-Benz Guard range currently has models from the S, E, M and G-Class. The latest member of the Guard family is the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard.

No weak spots – integrated special protection

The armouring of the S 600 Guard follows the principle of integrated protection based on many years of Mercedes-Benz experience in building special protection vehicles. The major advantages are:

Outstanding strength and stability thanks to specific reinforcement of the base structure which is integrated into the bodyshell production stage.

The high level of comfort is maintained by sophisticated integration and intelligent overlapping of all protective elements.

Already at the bodyshell stage, protective components of special steel are integrated into the cavities between the body structure and the outer skin. Special aramide and PE components provide additional splinter protection. Intelligent overlapping systems at particularly critical points ensure comprehensive ballistic protection.

The glass areas are an essential part of the protective concept. They are coated with polycarbonate on the inside for splinter protection, and have outstanding visual characteristics thanks to their laminated structure. Particular attention is devoted to the protective performance of the glass areas, with an appropriate choice of materials and thicknesses.

The interaction between all the components provides the occupants with a highly effective protective space which not only includes ballistic protection, but also comprehensive protection against explosive devices. The occupants are effectively protected by the armouring if a splintering explosive charge is fired at close range on either side.

With its sophisticated and strong protective system, the new S 600 Guard has immediately met all the personal protection requirements of the relevant authorities in Germany, and is the first vehicle to have been comprehensively certificated for highest ballistic protection in resistance class VR9 (according to BRV 2009, version 2).

Where explosive charges are concerned, the new S-Guard has demonstrated its protective capabilities by meeting the requirements of ERV2010 and the Federal Office of Criminal Investigation. Innovative underbody armouring almost entirely covers the underbody for the first time, a unique feature in the civilian special protection segment.

Discretion as a matter of course

Despite the extensive protective measures, the S 600 Guard is externally hardly distinguishable from the standard model. Its exterior has the same emphatic lines that already suggest power and dynamism when at standstill, the same striking design of the LED High Performance headlamps and the same LED rear light clusters inset like gemstones. As the S 600 Guard is hardly recognisable as an armoured saloon, it meets a further important requirement for special protection vehicles: maximum discretion thanks to unobtrusiveness.

Protection without compromises

The S 600 Guard has a generously spacious interior. Like the flagship S-Class model, the S 600 Guard excels with exemplary headroom and elbow room in the rear, and is also in a class by itself in this segment in terms of comfort dimensions such as entry height and door apertures. In addition, for the first time and as the only car in this segment, the new S 600 Guard is available both as a 4-seater and as a fully-fledged 5-seater, and offers unrestricted day-to-day suitability by virtue of a 350-litre boot capacity and high payload.

Thanks to the intelligently integrated armouring, the Guard version retains the first-class ambience of the S-Class Saloon for its occupants, and meets the highest expectations with regard to perceived quality, appointments and comfort. The comfort features of the standard model, and especially its innovations, are also almost without exception available for the S-Guard. These include:

- The Chauffeur package, which has a chauffeur position for the front passenger seat, EASY ADJUST luxury head restraints for the driver and front passenger, folding and removable on the front passenger side, and footrests electrically extendable on the front passenger side.
- The Executive seat in the rear on the front passenger side has a legrest and cushionbag.
- The Rear Seat Comfort package includes multicontour outer rear seats, seat heating Plus and now also the ENERGIZING massage function.
- The Rear PRE-SAFE® package with illuminated belt buckle extenders, PRE-SAFE® belt tensioners and beltbags for the outer rear seats, assisted closing for the doors and boot lid.
- The First-Class rear suite with a continuous Business console transforms the rear into a mobile office with two individual seats.
- Business telephony in the rear features a handset with touchscreen and a separate hands-free zone in the rear.
- The Warmth Comfort package pleasantly warms all surfaces with which the passengers come into contact.
- The AIR-BALANCE package, including ionisation, improved air filtering and fragrancing.
- A rear reading lamp with newly developed LED lights is also optionally available for the S 600 Guard.
- Twelve-cylinder powerpack

The S 600 Guard delivers superior performance thanks to its V12 petrol engine, which now generates 390 kW (530 hp) and therefore has even more pulling power than the engine of the preceding model. Thanks to 830 Nm of torque and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is available with the V12 engine for the first time, the S-Guard combines lower fuel consumption with impressive acceleration for a rapid escape from the danger zone when under threat. For weight reasons the top speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h.

Highly efficient air suspension

The S 600 Guard offers its passengers outstanding ride comfort and excellent driving dynamics to a high Mercedes standard. This is ensured by the AIRMATIC air suspension with variable damper control, as well as reinforced, redimensioned suspension components and adapted control functions such as ESP® or ASR to cope with the increased vehicle weight. The air springs at the front are reinforced, for example, and additional steel springs are used at the rear axle. As in the unarmoured S-Class, all-round level control also maintains a constant vehicle level irrespective of the payload in the S‑Guard. In the S 600 Guard it also compensates the reduced ground clearance caused by the underbody armour.

The brakes of the S-Guard are considerably larger than those of the standard model, so that the extra weight can be safely handled. Larger 6-piston brake callipers and significantly larger brake discs are used at the front axle, for example. The rear brakes are also of larger dimensions than on the standard model.

Standard equipment on the S 600 Guard includes Michelin PAX run-flat tyres with an additional tyre pressure monitoring system which allows an escape from the danger zone up to a distance of 30 km even with damaged tyres.

Intelligent assistance systems

The S 600 Guard is also equipped with the latest technical innovations that make the Mercedes-Benz S-Class a shining example of passenger car development in general and the world's best-selling luxury saloon. As part of Intelligent Drive, these optionally include assistance systems which considerably enhance comfort and safety.

The following options are available:

- the Driver Assistance package PLUS – this includes the assistance systems - DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot, BAS PLUS Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian recognition and ESP®, and an electric parking brake.
- Night View Assist Plus
- LED Intelligent Light System
- 360° camera
- Guard-specific equipment for more comfort and safety

In addition Mercedes-Benz offers further optional extras which were specifically developed for the S-Guard. These include:

- opaque roller blinds all-round in the rear
- heated windscreen and side windows
- easily operated panic alarm system
- fire extinguisher system with automatic activation
- emergency fresh air system protecting occupants from the ingress of smoke or irritant gases
- hydraulic power for the heavy side windows
- gimbal LED reading lamps in the rear
- special cooling compartment in the rear

As in the case of standard production models, the full manufacturer's warranty also applies to the S 600 Guard and the other models in the Guard family. All the Mercedes-Benz service outlets worldwide are also able to service, maintain or carry out any necessary repairs for the Guard models.

The Guard family

The Mercedes-Benz Guard range currently has models from the S, E, M and G-Class. Mercedes-Benz offers the most extensive range of special protection vehicles, with a total of nine models.

Mercedes-Benz E-Guard

The Mercedes-Benz E-Guard models are available in three engine variants. With a six-cylinder diesel engine in the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Guard, a V6 petrol engine in the E 350 Guard and a 5.5.-litre V8 in the E 500 Guard. All E-Guard models provide high protection in resistance class VR4 (according to BRV 2009).

Mercedes-Benz G 500 Guard

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is also available in a special-protection version. The G 500 Guard is equipped with a 5.5-litre V8 engine and highest protection to VR6 or VR7 (according to BRV 2009).

Mercedes-Benz M-Guard

The M-Guard is available as the ML 350 BlueTEC with a V6 diesel engine and as the ML 500 with a powerful V8 petrol engine. 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive is obligatory for these models, ensuring maximum traction and enhanced handling stability. As a special protection vehicle, the M-Guard with its integrated protective components meets all the requirements for resistance class VR7 (according to BRV 2009).

Further information: Protection classes

High-Protection vehicles engineered to the VR4 protection level resist large-calibre revolver ammunition and offer particularly good protection against the increasing threat of drug-related and violent street crime.

Highest-Protection vehicles engineered to protection level VR6/VR7/VR9 provide effective protection against the threat posed by terrorist attacks. Their armour is designed to resist rifle-fire from military weapons, which has a velocity almost twice that of handgun bullets. They also offer resistance to splinters from hand-grenades and explosive charges.

Mercedes-Benz announced pricing for the 2015 S-Class Coupe, a more stylish companion to the high-tech S-Class sedan.

Replacing the CL-Class, the 2015 S-Class Coupe will start at $120,825, including destination. That buys an S550 4Matic model, with a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine producing 449 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque with all-wheel drive.

The only other model available at launch will be the S63 AMG 4Matic Coupe, with a 5.5-lter twin-turbocharged V-8. Its 585 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque channeled to the road through AMG's SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission and, again, all-wheel drive. All of that performance will start at $161,825.

After those two models launch, Mercedes will roll out the S65 AMG Coupe, with a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-12, seven-speed automatic, and rear-wheel drive. The V-12's 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque will cost you $231,825.

The S-Class Coupe takes technology from the S-Class sedan and puts it in a sleeker package. It features an array of driver aids, including Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, and adaptive cruise-control system with semi-autonomous steering that can work at speeds of up to 124 mph.

It's bundled with other features, such as automatic braking and lane-keep assist, that can be found on the sedan, as well the coupe-specific "curve tilting" feature, which allows the car to lean into corners.

On the inside, the S-Class Coupe features the same twin information screen layout as the sedan, along with a touchpad controller allowing tablet-like gesture inputs. Two Burmester audio systems are also available, including surround-sound and 3D surround-sound systems.

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic Coupe and S63 AMG 4Matic Coupe deliveries will begin later this fall, followed by the arrival of the S65 AMG Coupe in December.

Mercedes-Benz has finally confirmed one of the year’s worst-kept secrets: That its Maybach brand is making a return as a new “Mercedes-Maybach” sub-brand specializing in ultra-luxury, similar to how the existing Mercedes-AMG sub-brand specializes in performance. Along with the confirmation, Mercedes released two photos teasing the first Mercedes-Maybach-enhanced model, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, which has been confirmed for separate debuts at auto shows taking place in Los Angeles and Guangzhou, China in the coming week.

The version debuting next week will be a Mercedes-Maybach S600, powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 shared with the regular Mercedes S600. Other variants are likely to be launched, including possibly a plug-in hybrid.

We’ve been spying prototypes for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class for almost a year but now we have our first look at the vehicle’s lavish interior. Mercedes-Maybach likes to boast that the car benefits from the “perfection” of the S-Class as well as a new level of “exclusivity” conveyed by the Maybach tag.

One form of exclusivity that the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class affords is a stretched wheelbase, which boosts interior space in the rear. The stretched wheelbase means that the S-Class family now boasts four separate variants, with the others being the standard size sedan, long-wheelbase model we get as standard here in the U.S. and the stylish coupe. Two more are in the works, though: an upcoming convertible and an extra, extra-long version that’s expected to revive the Pullman name.

Mercedes-Maybach customers will also have more personalization options to choose from, such as unique seats, additional comfort and convenience features, and ultra-luxurious trim elements. Mercedes is keen to stress that Mercedes-Maybach is not an equipment line, but a sub-brand that in future will deliver additional models. One of these is expected to be a version of the GL-Class SUV.