The company is counting on the iconic model to maintain its lead in China's luxury-car segment.
The ninth-generation S-Class range in China includes nine models, with engine capacities ranging from 3.0 liters to 6.0 liters. The new S-Class will sell for $136,000 to $379,000 in China.
In order to meet the growing demand for energy-saving and eco-friendly vehicles, the new S-Class family has added the S400 Hybrid.
Officials said the S-Class accounted for 44 percent of China's luxury-car market in the first seven months, leading against such rivals as the BMW 7 Series and the Audi A8.
"The S-Class is so popular because the Mercedes-Benz brand is the most recognized nameplate in China's top luxury vehicle segment, whose customers are most brand-sensitive," said Lang Xuehong, director of the automotive division of research and consulting firm Sinotrust.
Mercedes-Benz said its vehicle sales in China posted a 49-percent increase for the first seven months, totaling 31,711 cars. That tally includes 7,300 S-Class models, making China the largest S-Class market in the world.
In addition to the new S-Class, the company has introduced such new models as the B-Class, the new E-Class and the Smart in China so far this year.
Inside Line says: In the coming months, Mercedes-Benz plans to launch another 10 new models, demonstrating its confidence in China's luxury-car market. — Vivian Jin, Correspondent
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