The 2015 Mercedes S600 celebrated its world premiere at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show this week.

The model, designed to be the “pinnacle of automotive excellence”, is part of the growing S-Class lineup and is available exclusively as a long-wheelbase model equipped with the LED Intelligent Light System.

Top of the range engine

Power comes from a twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 engine that develops 390 kW and 830 Nm of torque. Mercedes confirmed the model has a start/stop system which enables it to average 11.1-litres/100 km.

Additional features in the new S-Class

Mercedes says a touch pad will be available to control the infotainment system and mimic current smartphone controls. Users will also be able to enter text with handwriting gestures in any language available on the screen.

A head-up display will also be introduced, as well as an updated version of the “Collision Prevention Assist” currently packaged in the CLA.

Named “Collision Prevention Assist Plus,” the system is able to brake autonomously at up to 200 km/h. It can also stop the car completely at speeds up to 80 km/h. It can also respond to stationary vehicles at up to 50 km/h and will prevent rear-end collisions at up to 40 km/h.

In addition, there will be an optional heated windshield designed to work in conjunction with the air-conditioning blower and ensures clear forward visibility.

According to Mercedes’ Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Ola Kallenius, “The S-Class has always been the embodiment of our claim to deliver the very best in terms of both technology and design and our flagship model, the S 600, epitomizes the focus of our development work, the ‘Essence of Luxury’, in a way that no other model can.

The S600 will go on sale in March in the US. It is not yet clear when or if the model will be available in South Africa.

2015 Mercedes-Benz S600 gallery