Kuala Lumpur, 18 November 2008 -Mercedes-Benz-Malaysia presents its new top-of-the-range model the first locally assembled Car with a high capacity V8 Engine: The new   S 500 L.

As in the preceding series, the new S 500 L will introduce technical innovations which make the flagship Mercedes model an example for others to follow. Pioneering safety features and exemplary comfort are once again the outstanding attributes of the S 500 L. The new S 500 L also sets standards with its agile handling, while offering an even more effortless driving experience thanks to the new, more powerful V8 engine. It is replacing a model series which is the world No. 1 in the luxury class, with around 500,000 units sold.

For more than five decades, the letter "S" in the model designation of Mercedes cars has signified a special aura, intelligent technology and the highest quality. The new S 500 L not only continues this tradition, but lends a new meaning to it. A dozen technical innovations are entering series production for the first time on board the new S-Class DISTRONIC PLUS– from Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensors to dynamic multicontour seats with an extended massage function, from night view assist with the latest infra-red technology to the new COMAND system, and from anticipatory PRE-SAFE® occupant protection to the suspension system.

The engines for the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class are new or further developments which offer up to 26 percent more output and up to 15 percent more torque compared to the preceding series. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 9 percent. 

The new 5.5-litre eight-cylinder generates 285 kW/388 hp and is among the most powerful engines in its displacement class. Maximum torque is also significantly improved compared with the previous V8 engine; it has increased to 530 Newton metres, and is available within a wide engine speed range between 2800 and 4800 rpm. As a result the eight-cylinder powerplant offers driving pleasure more typical of a sports car. The new S 500 L accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. Despite the 26 percent increase in output, the NEDC (combined) fuel consumption of 11.8 to 12.0 litres per 100 kilometres.

The running gear with its standard, improved air suspension system AIRMATIC likewise makes a major contribution to the high level of ride comfort in the new S 500 L. Mercedes-Benz combines this with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), which continuously regulates the shock absorber characteristics and takes the road conditions, driving style and vehicle load into account. The system adapts the damping forces for each individual wheel to the current situation within just 50 milliseconds.

The Adaptive Damping System was further improved by means of degressive shock absorber characteristics. This provides a greater ratio between the compression and rebound damping forces, thereby contributing greatly to the agile handling characteristics of the saloon.

The "S/C/M" key in the centre console is another special feature of the S 500 L. This enables the driver to alter the characteristics of the saloon from "comfortable" to "sporty", and to adjust the suspension, vehicle level and transmission mode individually. From 120 km/h and in the Sport mode, the suspension is automatically lowered by up to 20 millimetres to further improve the handling, aerodynamics and fuel consumption.

Brake Assist PLUS is available in combination with the likewise improved DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system. This radar-supported system now operates at all speeds between zero and 200 km/h, and ensures even greater driver convenience. In stop-and-go traffic DISTRONIC PLUS keeps the S 500 L at the desired distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically brakes the Saloon to a standstill if necessary and accelerates it back to the programmed speed when the traffic starts moving again. In this way the assistance system reduces the driver’s workload and provides considerable benefits in driver-fitness safety.
 
The equipment package consisting of Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS also includes park assist, which is based on radar technology. This system provides early warning of an impending collision when reversing.

Getting in, driving and feeling at ease - this is the unique experience offered by the S-Class. From the very first moment, man and machine enter into a harmonious relationship in the new S 500 L.

The innovative "Cockpit Management and Data System" -- COMAND for short – in the new S 500 L is equipped with a hard-disc-based navigation system featuring a 3D map function with an 8" colour display. It provides a central control interface for all the telematics components as well as additional individual functions. The Maps of Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are stored on the high storage capacity hard disc. COMAND APS is also equipped with a high-end TV Tuner, the exclusive Harman/Kardon Logic7 surround system to get an optimal loudspeaker configuration for the vehicle interior and the 6-disc DVD-changer, capable of reading MP3 CD/DVD and Video CD/DVD.
 
The Rear-seat Entertainment System offers all rear passengers entertainment of a high technical standard. During the journey, rear passengers can independently watch DVDs or watch TV as well as use external entertainment devices such as game consoles, without distracting the driver.

The new Mercedes-Benz S 500 L is priced at RM998,888.00.