MERCEDES BENZ S-Klasse (W221) 2009-2013 Photos, engines & full specs

After four years on the market, the fifth generation of the S-Class received an update for the 2009 model-year and became even more attractive to its buyers.

Europe was still struggling with the financial crisis that hit the automakers, but Mercedes-Benz had its agenda, and, as usual for the Germans, it had to stick to it. Moreover, starting with 2009, Europe was switching to Euro 5 emission standards, so, besides the need for a visual update, the drivetrains had to be upgraded as well.

One of the most striking visual differences between the 2009 and the 2005 model years was in the lights department, where the facelifted version received LED DRLs. Moreover, the blinkers and the taillights received the same technology, depending on the engine version. In addition, the front bumper got a new styling with horizontal light strips placed on the lower outer scoops, where the 2005 S-Class featured fog lamps.

The interior was, like in any S-Class before, a luxurious place. Mercedes-Benz added new materials to the list and offered a unique experience with heated and vented seats, massage functions, individual infotainment units for the rear passengers, and a reclining bench for the long wheelbase version. In addition, the car was upgraded with a new pneumatic system that transformed every ride into a floating-over-the-road experience.

Under the hood, the most significant change was the introduction of the hybrid system that not only increased fuel efficiency but also lowered CO2 emissions. In addition, the entire range benefited from the newly developed 7G-Tronic gearbox that sent the power to the rear wheels or in all corners, depending on the version.