S stands for special with new 2015 Mercedes V12 S600

The all-new S-Class launch has already been very successful around the globe, but the unveiling of the new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S600 takes the S to another level. S stands for “special” and the new S600 is a very special car indeed. This is the top model of the entire Mercedes lineup and it just made its global premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Mercedes has a mission and the new S600 is the complete embodiment of that mission in one car. Mercedes says it's their “ultimate expression of our mission to deliver the very best of technology and design.” And this car certainly delivers in both areas. But it goes beyond just design and technology. This 2015 S600 comes with an incredible amount of power.

The new luxury saloon features a a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 producing a “silken” 523 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. It's needed to power this long wheelbase sedan with all its luxury and technology. The V12 engine package will only be available to the U.S. and Asian markets and the flagship model will be launched this spring. And it comes with some new technology.

This new V12 powerplant gets some upgrades for the 2015 model. The new V12 gets more power than its predecessor that came with 510 hp. Mercedes increased the displacement of the engine from 5.5L to 6.0L. The maximum torque of 612 lb-ft is available from 1,900 rpm. The S600 also features for the first time features the ECO start/stop function as standard.

Other high-tech engine features worth noting are its all-aluminum crankcase, one-piece chain drive, forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel, modified forged pistons, new dedicated ignition coil with twin-spark ignition, two intake and one outlet valves (three-valve technology), hollow-stem outlet valves, filled with sodium and low-temperature cooling-water circulation with separate expansion reservoir.

Additional features in the new S600 include a plethora of new technology inside. Mercedes says all the functions of the head unit can be controlled at the touch of a finger. This includes the use of a smartphone, from the new touchpad. In addition, the touchpad allows letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting, in any language. The touchpad offers an additional, full-function input option over and above the existing Voice Control System.

Another new standard feature includes a head-up display on the S600. All the important information is displayed directly in the driver's field of view on the windshield. The system provides information on speed, speed limits and navigation instructions without the driver ever taking their eyes off the road.

The all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz V12 S600 has just made its global debut at the NAIAS in Detroit, Michigan. The all-new flagship luxury saloon is very special indeed and sits at the top of the Mercedes lineup. Pricing will be announced closer to its North american and Asian launch this spring, 2014.