Today at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show->ke222, Mercedes ->ke187 unveiled the most powerful version of the new S-Class lineup: the new S600->ke359. With a history that spans more than half a century, the S600 became one of the most successful model in the S-Class lineup, thanks to its more powerful engine and its incredible level of equipment.

The first S600 debuted back in 1963 and was powered by a fuel-injected V-8, but the model launched today adopted a more powerful V-12 biturbo engine that sounds more suitable for a model offered exclusively with a long wheelbase and a luxurious equipment package.

Next to this powerful engine, the new S600 will also be offered with lots of safety features and additional features that are not offered in the other S-Class models.

The new Mercedes S600 will be put on sale in the spring of 2014. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Click past the jump to read more about the new Mercedes-Benz S600.

2015 Mercedes-Benz S600

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 Mercedes-Benz S600
  • Engine/Motor: V12
  • Horsepower: 523
  • Torque: 612 @ 1900
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The new Mercedes S600 -- the flagship of the new S-Class -- will be offered with the same design language we've seen in all the other models in the lineup. Distinguishing it from the rest of the S-Class models are larger air intakes, headlights with LED Intelligent Light System, special "V12" logos placed on the front fenders and a "S600" logo placed at the rear. The model will be offered exclusively in a long wheelbase configuration.

Interior

As the new S600 is placed on the top of the S-Class lineup, Mercedes equipped it with lots of cool features, like a head unit that can be controlled at the touch of a finger from the new touchpad and a head-up display inspired by a jet fighter that offers details on the speed, speed limits and navigation instructions directly in the driver's field of view on the front windscreen.

Other features include: Magic Body Control and a Driving Assistance Plus package that includes Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist.

Drivetrain

Under its hood, Mercedes installed a new 6.0-liter, V-12 engine that delivers a total of 523 horsepower -- an increase of 13 horsepower over the previous generation -- and 612 pound-feet of torque available from 1,900 rpm. For the first time, this V-12 engine can be equipped with an ECO start/stop function for increased fuel economy

Prices

The new Mercedes S600 will be put on sale in the spring of 2014. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Competition

Audi A8 L W12

The A8 L W12 is powered by a 6.3-liter, W-12 engine that delivers a total of 500 horsepower and 463 pound-feet of torque. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph.

BMW 760i

The BMW 760i is powered by a 6.0-liter , V-12 engine that delivers a total of 544 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque available as low down as 1,500 rpm. As a result, the 760i will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Fuel economy for this model is 22.1 mpg.

Conclusion

The new Mercedes S600 is the perfect ride for those looking for a high-end luxury sedan. The model got more powerful than the model it replaces, is highly equipped and if Mercedes can keep the weight down, it can easily become a leader on the market.