With the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a very sensitive feel for the attention level of its driver, and warns him in good time when he becomes drowsy. This innovative technology continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters. Once the high-resolution steering angle sensor recognises the steering behaviour that typically indicates the onset of drowsiness, a warning signal is sounded and "ATTENTION ASSIST. Break!" appears in the instrument cluster.

Mercedes-Benz has also improved the long and medium-range radar used by Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control. Both systems assist the driver during emergency braking. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognise the immediate danger of a rear-end collision, the PRE-SAFE®Brake is able to intervene and brake the vehicle independently. The new generation of the system offers even greater safety: if the driver fails to react even after receiving a visual and acoustic warning, the PRE - SAFE ® Brake is able to activate the maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before an accident which is identified by the system as being unavoidable -- an emergency braking action that significantly mitigates the severity of the impact. The system therefore acts as an "electronic crumple zone", as it were.

Detailed fine-tuning has also given the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class better driving dynamics and agility. This is in large measure due to the new Direct-Steer system, where the ratio varies with the steering angle.