Mercedes Benz

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Shanghai, China, Apr 20, 2009

Specific enhancements to the S 65 AMG - Exclusive top-of-the-line AMG S-Class model now boasts even greater appeal

The Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG, the powerful top-of-the-line S-Class model, is now even more appealing: thanks to a series of subtle yet extremely effective fine-tuning measures, the performance saloon is even more striking and priceless than ever before. The updated technology is aimed at ensuring a more dynamic driving experience as well as optimum active and passive safety.


Exclusivity and dynamism combined with effortless superiority and state-of-the-art technology - the top S-Class model from Mercedes-AMG embodies all of these characteristics and more: The AMG 6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine of the S 65 AMGdelivers maximum power of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 newton metres, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. The saloon is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Despite no changes having been made to the engine data and performance values, it has still been possible to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 3 percent.

Contributing to the even more exceptional status of the model is the new, more pronounced arrow-shaped radiator grille, featuring twin chrome-plated louvres. The new front apron incorporates striking, AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights and two transverse air outlets on each side. Further striking features include "V12 Biturbo" lettering on the front wings and redesigned exterior mirrors.

Side sill panels emphasize the elegant line of the front apron through to the rear of the vehicle, where the new rear apron features yet another highlight: the centre section of the diffuser insert is now painted in the same colour as the vehicle body. New rear lamps with 52 LED's in the form of a double "C" also give the S-Class an unmistakable appearance from behind. A distinctive element comes in the guise of the sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes, featuring a V12 design. The S 65 AMG comes with 20-inch forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a mirror finish and fitted with 255/35 (front) and 275/35 (rear) tyres.

Crosswind stabilisation, Torque Vectoring Brake and Direct-Steer system

The AMGsports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) provides crosswind stabilisation as standard equipment for the first time: thanks to this function, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or - in the case of strong gusts - reduced to a minimum. ABC compensates against the effect of crosswinds by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds, using the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors of the ESP® Electronic Stability Program.

Also making up the standard equipment is the new Torque Vectoring Brake: when cornering, brief direct application of the brakes has an effect on the vehicle's inner rear wheel so that the saloon corners precisely and under control at all times. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of the ESP® Electronic Stability Program and not only improves responsiveness but also active handling safety, which is particularly noticeable in critical conditions. The driving experience is further heightened thanks to the Direct-Steer system: with its variable ratio depending on steering angle, it helps to ensure a more direct response when cornering, and therefore more responsive handling - in brief: enhanced driving pleasure at the wheel of the Mercedes-AMG S-Class.

Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, the high-performance braking system continues to provide optimum creep strength, deceleration and sensitivity. The front axle features a double floating brake calliper. This exclusive technology combines the advantages of a sliding-calliper disc brake - reduced heat transfer to the brake fluid and clear advantages in terms of comfort thanks to the brake lining guide mechanism - with the efficiency of an extra large fixed calliper brake.

Extensive range of standard equipment with exclusive flair

The interior appointments are every bit as exclusive as the high-tech package:
as soon as its door is opened, the S 65 AMG welcomes the driver with large, animated "AMG V12 BITURBO" lettering in the instrument cluster's central display. The main menu provides the driver with information about engine oil temperature, current gear range, battery voltage, and the RACETIMER, which displays lap times when on the race track. The Exclusive PASSION leather upholstery in the S 65 AMG, with its AMG V12 diamond pattern design, exudes an air of refinement. Ample use of burr walnut trim elements and the AMG-specific analogue clock, featuring an IWC design, is a given. The five-speed automatic SPEEDSHIFT transmission is fitted with DIRECT SELECT gearshift. Gear changes are carried out by means of aluminium shift paddles on the new AMG sports steering wheel.

New standards in active and passive safety

In addition, the top-of-the-line model sets new standards when it comes to active and passive safety through a combination of innovative camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. These include the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and the PRE-SAFE®Brakes, which are linked to the proximity regulating radar and intervene independently in the event of an impending accident to act like an invisible crumple zone. The Night View Assist with infrared camera also features a novel pedestrian detection system. The pictures from the windscreen camera are also used by the new Speed Limit Assist, available as an option. The Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control support the driver in the event of emergency braking. The PRE-SAFE® positioning function and NECK-PRO luxury head restraints are now also included as standard.

New infotainment systems, including COMAND APS with new SPLITVIEW display, which shows different images for driver and front passenger simultaneously, enhance occupant comfort even further.

Exclusive optional extras are also available from the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO:

- AMG 20-inch double-spoke forged wheels, painted in titanium grey with a mirror finish and fitted with 255/35 R 20 front and 275/30 R 20 rear tyres
- AMG trim elements in carbon/piano lacquer
- AMG floor mats

The S 65 AMG is only available as a long-wheelbase version and will be available from June 2009.