Setra TopClass touring coach on an open country road at sunset, surrounded by blue light waves

TopClass 500

Setra TopClass: upgrade for the First Class.

Long-distance travel at the highest level.

The exclusive HDH models of the TopClass take bus travel to a new level. Maximum long-distance comfort, individual luxury and technical excellence combine in them to create a travel experience that couldn't be greater. The exciting design and the latest assistance systems make the Setra TopClass the flagship of any fleet.

With a new engine generation and improved safety features, Daimler Buses has further refined the exclusive touring coaches of the Setra TopClass and optimised service, safety and ride comfort.

Highlights

For those who expect more.

The benefits to you at a glance:

Unmatched travel comfort.

The TopClass impresses with high-quality seating, a sophisticated lighting concept and exemplary climate comfort. Feel-good comfort for the passengers included.

Enhanced security.

The integral safety concept of the TopClass helps to prevent accidents proactively. It protects both passengers and the driver and also includes vulnerable road users.

Versatility for every application.

Due to its versatility and exclusivity, the TopClass is always the right choice for every demanding bus operator.

Modern workplace.

The Multimedia Cockpit Interactive creates an attractive workplace with a multifunction steering wheel, smart instruments and new digital services.

Acknowledgements

Coach of the Year 2026

The Setra TopClass received the “Coach of the Year” award within the framework of Busworld Europe 2025.

Every year, the “Coach of the Year” award recognises top achievements in areas such as technology, innovation and passenger comfort - selected by a jury consisting of journalists from 24 countries.

COACH OF THE YEAR 2026 logo with green bus symbol on round badge
Green Setra TopClass 500 touring coach on a country road in front of a mountainous panorama and coastal landscape

Economy

Luxury that pays off.

The TopClass impresses with its high overall economy.

A Setra from the TopClass pays off for you. The perfectly tuned drivetrain, advanced assistance systems and its unmatched aerodynamics minimise fuel consumption. Long service intervals, a dense service network and a highly professional spare parts supply ensure operational readiness. The TopClass also impresses when you look at its cost balance over the entire life cycle.

Setra TopClass touring coach driving on test track, front view with lights switched on on wide asphalt bend
Setra TopClass touring coach, rear view with open engine compartment flap and visible engine compartment in front of modern building
Digital cockpit in the Daimler Buses touring coach with speedometer display, reservoir pressure and ECO Support display behind the steering wheel
Touch display in the Daimler Buses touring coach with “Predictive Powertrain Control” menu and switches for curves, junctions and speed
Setra TopClass touring coach driving on test track, front view with lights switched on on wide asphalt bend

What your Setra costs is not just a question of the purchase price. That’s why we at Setra always see the whole picture when we develop a bus. We optimise all TCO factors and thus achieve the best possible overall economy. These factors include investment costs, energy costs, maintenance and repair costs as well as the residual value when selling your bus.

Setra TopClass touring coach, rear view with open engine compartment flap and visible engine compartment in front of modern building

Thanks to numerous vehicle-specific individual measures, the Setra TopClass offers exceptionally favourable fuel consumption. On the one hand, this is due to the advanced drivetrain from Mercedes-Benz. On the other hand, intelligent energy and consumption management makes a significant contribution to favourable consumption. Maintenance costs are also surprisingly low. Positively influenced by long service intervals, good accessibility and a sophisticated cleaning and replacement system for exhaust gas aftertreatment.

Digital cockpit in the Daimler Buses touring coach with speedometer display, reservoir pressure and ECO Support display behind the steering wheel

The Driver Score assistance system supports economical driving. Practical messages on the display enable the driving style to be continuously optimised. The system evaluates acceleration, braking, uniformity and coasting.

Touch display in the Daimler Buses touring coach with “Predictive Powertrain Control” menu and switches for curves, junctions and speed

The further developed and anticipatory cruise control system PPC integrates a driving style adapted to the topography into the automatic gearshift system and, in combination with the precisely tuned gearshift strategy, enables noticeable fuel savings. With the new, optimised generation, the system is now even more powerful. PPC drives on country roads, takes junctions and roundabouts into account and is networked with the adaptive cruise control. It can be used from a speed of 15 km/h.

Red Setra TopClass touring coach driving on a coastal road in front of the sea and a cloudy panorama at sunset

Technology

Innovative technology for the highest demands.

Comprehensive optimisation of the drivetrain and vehicle architecture.

With their innovative technology, the touring coaches from Daimler Buses meet the highest standards. As part of a comprehensive update, the entire vehicle was systematically further developed. The efficiency of the engines is further increased, the drivetrain is improved and an optimised electronics architecture creates the fundamentals for new digital services. With this complete package, your touring coaches are more economical than ever.

Graphic: Detailed view of a Daimler Buses diesel engine with turbocharger and exhaust routing

One of the greatest advantages of the OM471 is its excellent fuel efficiency. In combination with the robustness and longevity of the six-cylinder in-line engine, the new generation of the OM471 increases the already excellent profitability of Daimler Buses touring coaches.

Graphic: Bus transmission unit with control unit and cooling connections

The technical update of the diesel buses from Daimler Buses focused on the complete drivetrain. The ZF TraXon 2 Coach contributes to improved fuel savings. In combination with the new engine generation, the modern transmission sets new standards in terms of profitability.

Graphic: Automatic transmission for touring coaches with integrated oil pan and connections

With the ZF EcoLife CoachLine, Daimler Buses’ touring coaches use an automatic transmission that combines driving experience and efficiency. Extended maintenance intervals and a long service life increase the uptime of your fleet. New torsional dampers additionally reduce vibration and thus the noise level: a real added value for the ride comfort of your passengers.

Faster updates, safer driving.

The update to an optimised electronics architecture opens up new possibilities for fleet operators of Daimler Buses touring coaches. With over-the-air updates, software updates are transferred wirelessly to the system of your buses - without any time delay and without a workshop visit. And you not only benefit from greater service convenience, the update also includes new assistance and safety systems.

The digital services from OMNIplus ON expand the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive to include intelligent and networked navigation functions. The Navigation Services Package is made available via the OMNIplus ON Portal after activation.

Green Setra TopClass touring coach driving on a narrow shore road along a lake in front of steep rock walls

Safety

Safety with a system.

All-round good protection thanks to the latest assistance systems.

The TopClass sets new standards when it comes to safety. It further expands its safety advantage with unique equipment features.

Emergency Brake Assist ABA 6 Plus assists the driver by automatically initiating emergency braking if there is a risk of a rear-end collision with vehicles in front or stationary obstacles. It can also detect moving or stationary pedestrians and cyclists in front of the vehicle. The system can respond with an audible and visual warning as well as automatic partial or maximum full-stop braking.

The modern MirrorCam system enables a clear and comprehensive view of the road traffic. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, driving safety and the risk of accidents are minimised. The extended field of vision enables the driver to detect pedestrians, cyclists and other road users in the vicinity. This eliminates the blind spot when turning right.

Central display in the touring coach with “Assistance systems” menu and settings for lane keeping functions

Active Drive Assist 2 actively supports the driver in maintaining distance and lane by combining various assistance systems. The system can brake and accelerate the vehicle and keep it in lane by means of active steering movements. To this end, it combines the functions of the individual systems in a unique way and thus already enables partially automated driving in all speed ranges.

Active Sideguard Assist 3 monitors the front and side areas of the vehicle and assists in critical turning and lane-changing situations. When turning left, the system detects oncoming traffic and warns of collisions in good time; when turning right, the focus is on objects at the side. If the driver continues to turn despite danger, a stepped warning is issued with active brake application to reduce the danger.

Active Cross Traffic Assist supports the driver with automatic brake applications for crossing vehicles in the angle range of 65° to 115°. The system works over the entire speed range and supplements existing assistance systems by reacting specifically to crossing vehicles.

Graphic: Bus detects speed limit 100 sign via camera system, display automatically adjusts speed

The innovative Traffic Sign Assist offers maximum safety and comfort on the road. Thanks to GPS and camera support, the vehicle speed is continuously compared with the valid traffic rules.

Touch display in the Daimler Buses touring coach with assistance systems, including Active Brake Assist 6, Frontguard Assist and Sideguard Assist

Frontguard Assist is an advanced system that has been specially developed to inform the driver about people in the immediate vicinity of the front of the vehicle and to warn of an imminent accident. Whether moving off or driving slowly (up to 15 km/h), the intelligent assistant can detect potential collisions with unprotected road users.

Setra TopClass touring coach driving through a tree-lined city street, red coach in front of historic buildings in the evening light

Design & Comfort

Travel more beautifully and comfortably.

First-class - the design and comfort of the Setra TopClass.

The striking design of the Setra TopClass combines exclusivity, elegance and self-confidence in an exciting way. Enjoy the view!

Comfortable seats, the best view, perfect climate comfort: the Setra TopClass offers your passengers exclusive pampering comfort - for unforgettable travel experiences.

Close-up of the SETRA lettering on the front of a red Setra touring coach, sun reflection in the windscreen

Design

Striking appearance. Assertively demanding.

Design that impresses and fascinates.

The Setra TopClass is an eye-catcher in any fleet. Its design conveys all the values that the TopClass stands for. The distinctive lines suggest safety and reliability. The stylish design elements convey exclusivity and desire. And the redesigned, striking front end exudes dynamism and confidence. Discover all the details now!

Passenger comfort

Welcome aboard!

Lean back and relax: passenger comfort in the Setra TopClass.

Setra TopClass touring coach interior with row seating, view of two seat rows with red-grey seats and Setra emblem
Setra coach on-board toilet with toilet, washbasin, soap dispenser and toilet paper
Setra TopClass touring coach interior with seat rows and large panoramic glass roof, view forward through the center aisle
Interior of a Setra TopClass touring coach with seat rows, center aisle, luggage shelves and LED light strips along the ceiling
Setra TopClass touring coach interior with row seating, view of two seat rows with red-grey seats and Setra emblem

Seating comfort is of particular importance, especially on long journeys. Setra seating manufactured in-house is available in numerous variants. All are characterised by their legendary processing and convenience. Especially in combination with the optional, multi-adjustable head restraints. The seat covers are a feast for the eyes, as the selection of fabrics and their combinations is almost inexhaustible. Offer your passengers something special by combining upholstery and outer covers to create a unique feel-good atmosphere on board.

Setra coach on-board toilet with toilet, washbasin, soap dispenser and toilet paper

The on-board toilet offers passengers pleasant travel comfort - thanks to high quality standards and convenient access. Integrated directly into the entrance area, the on-board toilet meets the requirement for a maximum number of seats. With the optional equipment variants such as sustainable water flushing instead of chemical flushing and smoke detectors, the on-board toilet has further advantages.

Setra TopClass touring coach interior with seat rows and large panoramic glass roof, view forward through the center aisle

The large, tinted Top Sky Panorama glass roof also provides passengers with the best views. Specifically, this is a double window above the bus’s center aisle. It is tinted and has an energy transmission of 21 percent and a light transmission of about three percent.

Interior of a Setra TopClass touring coach with seat rows, center aisle, luggage shelves and LED light strips along the ceiling

Thanks to the stylish ambient lighting, passengers can expect an exceptional sense of space even in dark lighting conditions. With the security of being able to move freely and find your way around at all times. The ambient lighting supplements the main lighting on the service sets and illuminates the entire length of the passenger compartment with pleasant light effects.

Setra cockpit with driver cockpit, steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and central infotainment display

Driver comfort

First-class workplace.

All information is bundled in the new coach cockpit.

With the product update, Daimler Buses is consistently driving forward the digitization of touring coaches. Numerous physical switches are replaced by intelligent digital control elements. Many functions can be controlled intuitively via the optimised touchscreen - just as naturally as on a smartphone or tablet. Frequently used functions can still be assigned as buttons, selected features can even be conveniently activated by voice command. All relevant information is centrally bundled on two displays, the main screen and the touchscreen. Trip data, fuel consumption and other important vehicle data are clearly structured and available at a glance at all times. This relieves the driver in their daily work and creates the fundamentals for an anticipatory, efficient and economical driving style.

Yellow Setra touring coach drives in front of modern architecture in daylight

Variants

Luxury made to measure.

Which TopClass is right for you?

The Setra TopClass is particularly economical because it is tailored precisely to your applications. Choose from three lengths for your tailor-made touring coach of the extra class.

Side view of Setra TopClass touring coach, yellow-gold design with three axles.

S 515 HDH

Full control, stability and safety even in tight bends? With a turning circle of almost 20 metres, the S 515 HDH always remains superior even on demanding topography. The 12-metre long touring coach combines impressive size with agile handling and unparalleled comfort. Thanks to its high payload, the S 515 HDH also offers plenty of scope for individual equipment requirements.

Side view of Setra TopClass touring coach, yellow-gold design with three axles.

S 516 HDH

The S 516 HDH offers greater variability in everyday use and perfect suitability for medium- and long-distance operations. The 13.3-metre-long three-axle vehicle embodies the golden centre, but is anything but average. On the contrary, it always shows its true size when it comes to implementing exclusive bus travel concepts.

Side view of Setra TopClass touring coach, yellow-gold design with three axles.

S 517 HDH

Would you like a little more of everything? With a length of 14.2 metres, the S 517 HDH has the largest trunk in its class. With up to 59 seats, it also offers space for large travel groups in a luxurious ambience. And with its fascinating range of equipment, this majestic super-high-decker has made it a unique selling point for premium bus travel for your enterprise.

Green Setra TopClass touring coach driving on a country road at dusk, symbols for digital services and connectivity above it

OMNIplus Service

Discover our Premium Service for your Setra.

With bus-specific provision, individual solutions and an extensive range, OMNIplus ensures your vehicles are always ready for deployment and your company remains operational.

Find out more about OMNIplus
Red Setra Topclass touring coach standing in front of glass facade, side view and SETRA front lettering

Technical data

All technical data and equipment at a glance.

Setra offers you the individual dream bus for your business. Whether the surprisingly manoeuvrable S 515 HDH, the versatile S 516 HDH or the powerful S 517 HDH. The Setra TopClass adapts even better to your wishes and your business. With three model variants from 12.5 to 14.2 metres in length. With plenty of space for passengers and luggage. And thanks to three axles with plenty of payload reserves.

Download technical data & equipment

Contact

Any questions left?

Do you have any questions or need more information? We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Please contact us for further details.

Contact us now

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FAQs

The Setra TopClass is Setra’s premium model series for demanding touring coach companies. It combines maximum passenger comfort, exclusive design, state-of-the-art safety systems and a particularly economical vehicle architecture for luxurious bus trips on medium and long distances.

The Setra TopClass was specially developed for premium tourist transport. It is suitable for exclusive group travel, long-distance travel, VIP transport, event traffic and high-quality tourism offers where comfort, safety and a representative appearance are crucial.

The six-cylinder in-line engine OM 471 from Mercedes-Benz is available for the Setra TopClass. The engine impresses with high efficiency, reliability, durability and optimised fuel consumption.

The model series comprises three premium touring coaches: the S 515 HDH, which is compact and particularly manoeuvrable; the S 516 HDH, the versatile all-rounder for medium- and long-distance journeys and the S 517 HDH, which offers the largest possible passenger and luggage compartment for exclusive travel concepts. All models offer the typical TopClass level in terms of comfort, safety and profitability.

The difference lies mainly in the vehicle length, passenger capacity and luggage volume. The S 515 HDH is suitable for particularly flexible applications, the S 516 HDH offers a balanced combination of capacity and manoeuvrability, while the S 517 HDH as a super-high-decker offers maximum space for passengers and luggage.

The Setra TopClass models feature modern assistance and safety systems such as Active Brake Assist 6 Plus, Active Drive Assist 2, Active Sideguard Assist 3, Cross Traffic Assist and the MirrorCam. They actively support the driver in avoiding accidents and increase safety for passengers and other road users.

Assistance systems can only support drivers. Drivers are always fully responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle.