Refined motoring pleasure and responsible handling of the resource "fuel" were the challenges faced by the engineers at Mercedes-Benz when developing efficient drive concepts for the S-Class. The result: the engines are significantly more efficient than those of the previous model. The most prominent innovation is the entirely newly-developed hybrid drive concept with lithium-ion batteries in the S 400 HYBRID, comprising extensive measures for energy savings. This new model, in particular demonstrates impressively, that luxury class driving refinement can be consistently combined with economically-efficient consumption and low emission levels.

But it is not only the drive system that makes the S-Class dynamic. The suspension technology with the electronically-controlled AIRMATIC suspension system and the optional Active Body Control (ABC) active suspension system with crosswind stabilisation, assist the driver and ensure comfortable road holding.

In addition, the Direct-Steer system provides a more direct steering ratio with increasing steering angle and reduces the required steering for very large angles, for example when parking or in very tight curves.