MAGIC BODY CONTROL, the first "suspension with eyes", had its world première in the S-Class. With the curve tilting function the Coupé introduces a further world first for series-production cars: The Coupé leans into bends in a manner similar to a motorcyclist or skier. The lateral acceleration acting upon occupants is reduced in a way akin to when driving in a steep curve, and passengers sit more firmly. On country roads in particular, the new curve tilting function enhances motoring enjoyment and comfort.
Like the S-Class Saloon, the new Coupé is available with numerous new assistance systems that make driving even more comfortable and safer. The "Intelligent Drive" systems include, among other things the PRE-SAFE® brake with pedestrian detection, DISTRONIC PLUS with Steer Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, BAS PLUS with junction assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive High-beam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS features an additional function apart from the adaptive brake assistant, which provides collision protection from a speed of 7 km/h: if there remains a danger of collision and the driver fails to respond, the system can carry out an autonomous braking manoeuvre at speeds of up to 105 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 50 km/h, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at up to 40 km/h.
As in the saloon, the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system has been expanded through the inclusion of PRE-SAFE® PLUS. PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision and warn following traffic by flashing the rear hazard warning lights at a high frequency. If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also firmly apply the parking brake on the vehicle stationary and thus minimise the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by an impact from the rear.
Numerous optional equipment features are available to make the interior of the S-Class Coupé exceptionally luxurious and comfortable. For example, the AIR‑BALANCE package including the components "fragrancing" and "ionisation" is available, as is the electric armrest heating as a component of the Warmth Comfort package. If the vehicle is equipped with the optional Seat Comfort package, the front seats feature the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle.
In cooperation with high-end audio specialists Burmester, two especially high-value audio systems have been developed: the Burmester® surround sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D surround sound system.
A long tradition: large coupés from Mercedes-Benz
The history of the large post-war Mercedes coupés dates back to the year 1952, when Mercedes-Benz launched the legendary 300 S Coupé - a "car for the world's elite" as the automotive press of the time judged. It was followed in 1956 by the 220 S Coupé of model series W 180, which created a sensation in particular due to its self-supporting pontoon body. From 1961 to 1971 the long-drawn out elegant Coupé of model series W111/W112 enthralled no less than 29,918 highly discerning customers, who were able to choose between the Type 220 SEb Coupé six-cylinder models and the Type 280 SE 3.5 Coupé eight-cylinder models.
The SEC coupés of model series C 216, which remained in the programme of the Stuttgart-based automotive brand for ten years and of which over 74,000 were sold, were based on the S-Class of 1981. In 1992 the successor model (model series C 140) was presented at the Geneva Motor Show, also featuring for the first time as a S 600 Coupé with a 290 kW (394 hp) twelve-cylinder engine. It was to be the car in which the Electronic Stability Program ESP® had its world première in 1995. Later on this coupé was renamed "CL-Class". Another forefather of the new S-Class Coupé celebrated its world première under this name in March 1999. With pioneering innovations such as active ABC suspension (Active Body Control) and bi-xenon headlamps this two-door car set new standards.
Supreme exclusivity and sophisticated design combined with trend-setting state-of-the-art technology were combined in the last CL-Class (2006). This luxury coupé opened up a new dimension of vehicle safety with the introduction of the PRE-SAFE® brakes. Beyond this, Mercedes innovations such as the Intelligent Light System with five light functions and PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant safety were also part of the vehicle's standard equipment.
The new S-Class Coupé and its innovations seamlessly continue the tradition of large coupés into the future.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
(Feb 11, 2014)