The S600 is powered by a 5,980cc twin-turbo V12 power unit, and is the range topper in an already successful S-Class lineup that is also available exclusively with long wheelbase and with a luxurious package of equipment and appointments. The combined fuel consumption stands at 11.1L/100 km - a 21 percent reduction to its predecessor. 

The 530bhp and 830Nm of torque rated luxury limousine had its formal launch at the ongoing Detroit Auto Show, with the market launch to follow in March.

The comprehensive standard specification fitted to the S600 reinforces its role as a flagship model. The LED Intelligent Light System, the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension with ROAD SURFACE SCAN and the Driving Assistance package Plus, for example, all come as standard.

The latter comprises Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and PRE-SAFE Brake, amongst a library of systems.

Despite being a new car, the S-Class will bring in further refinements from March. All the functions of the head unit can be controlled by fingertip gesture, as with a smartphone, from the new, optional touchpad. In addition, the touchpad allows letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting - in any language that is available on the head unit.

Replacing the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system on the S-Class is the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. The adaptive Brake Assist system, can now autonomously apply braking at speeds of up to 200km/h, 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 50km/h, and is able to prevent rear end collisions at up to 40km/h.