Beijing, August 18, 2009 – Having assumed leadership in the top-luxury segment for over 50 years, Mercedes-Benz's S-Class is set to reinforce its reign with the imminent launch of new generation models at the end of August in China. These new generation models are set to continue the successful tradition of the S-Class with even more innovative design and technological breakthroughs that lead the pace in automotive craftsmanship. The new generation S-Class is available for pre-orders starting today, bringing customers one step closer to becoming a part the pinnacle of luxury.

"Our long-term commitment and dedication has positioned China to become the largest S-Class market in the world. The continued development of the Chinese economy has led to the growth of more successful top-elites, who possess the vision and capability to shape the future. The new generation S-Class reflects the very needs of these influential leaders, giving us the confidence for its market success," said Klaus Maier, President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd.

The S-Class has always been the zenith of the top-luxury segment. Now in its ninth generation, the current S-Class has sold over 270,000 units, tallying the total for the entire S-Class lineage to an unprecedented total of 3.3 million cars worldwide. In China, the S-Class has been standing above the rest in the segment for years. Such achievements both domestically and internationally prove that the S-Class is the world's – and China's – most successful top-luxury vehicle.

Since its inception over half a century ago, Mercedes-Benz's flagship S-Class has always come equipped with the automaker's latest and most advanced technology. The new generation S-Class continues this tradition, with an appeal apparent at first sight through its sleek design that exudes serenity, self-assurance and elegance from all angles. The model features an accentuated arrow-shaped grill and an LED lighting package, which produce a more passionate and dynamic effect on the model, Nappa leather multifunctional steering wheel and a folding centre armrest, largely decorated with wood trim, present luxury at its finest. Incorporating Mercedes-Benz newly developed SPLITVIEW technology, drivers and occupants of the new generation S-Class can now simultaneously view navigation information and entertainment programs, such as movies, on the same screen without interfering each other, thus greatly increasing entertainment value without weakening driving safety. Furthermore, three ambient lights are available, allowing customers to set the mood inside the car through the upgraded COMAND system to produce a more luxurious atmosphere.

Apart from the luxury elements, the new generation S-Class is also equipped with superior technology that guarantees first-class comfort. Among the many comfort features, the model is equipped with Active Body Control (ABC) with Crosswind Stabilisation – Mercedes-Benz's active-suspension technology that significantly enhances in-car stability by reducing the effects of crosswind to a minimum. The new generation model also features safety innovations with the highest global standards – such as Night View Assist Plus with pedestrian detection, ATTENTION ASSIST and Adaptive Highbeam Assist – which position the S-Class to be the safest car in the top-luxury segment.

"With the deepest and most celebrated heritage, richest product lineup, and the ultimate combination of dynamic design, first-class comfort and safety innovations, the S-Class has always stood at the heights of the top-luxury saloon segment," said Bjoern Hauber, General Manager of Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd. "With features that once again define new standards in the auto industry, we are confident that the new generation models will further reiterate the S-Class' position as the leader in the market."

The new generation S-Class offers China's top echelon customers with the most diversified product portfolio of luxury models equipped with engine displacements ranging from V6 to V12. With new technological advancements in design, comfort, safety, performance and an unmatched luxury, the new generation S-Class is on the path to once again set the benchmark of the top-luxury saloon segment.