Mercedes-Benz S Class

Mercedes Benz S Class

The letter ‘S’ stands for superior; it also stands for S-Class, the premium flagship saloon from Mercedes Benz. Purchased new or used, this desirable car is simply loaded with the very latest automotive technology and comes in entry-level mode, the very popular AMG-Line and other Premium versions., all adding further options. There’s even a prestigious Maybach version if regular luxury just isn’t enough.

The Exterior

As befits a classically proportioned saloon car design there’s a choice of four-or five-seat configurations. The exterior of the S-Class is perfectly balanced with a short front overhang, a long wheelbase and a balanced rear overhang. The wide track and flush-mounted wheels work with character lines along the sides for a sculptured look all the way round to the high-status radiator grille.

The LED headlamps have the three-point daytime driving light signature that is typical of the S-Class, although flatter and somewhat smaller overall. Flush-mounted door handles are a completely new development on the latest version, but are optional, appearing when they are electrically extended as the driver approaches, thanks to keyless access. The S-Class is unmistakably Mercedes Benz. New or used models can be imported from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other global destinations through the comprehensive MHH International service. Please check for availability.

The Interior

The latest model S-Class features the next-generation of Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX). This now has a 12.8” OLED touchscreen central display coupled with a 12.3” digital driver display and a MBUX tablet, usable away from the vehicle. The driver display is also optionally available with 3D technology, including facial recognition which can monitor driver drowsiness and exterior mirror settings. This may be available in recent used models. Some versions also have the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice recognition and all the latest variants now have the driver assistance pack as standard, for added safety.

This is ‘chauffeur-driven’ luxury motoring with rich materials, including leather, naturally. The Mercedes Benz S-Class gets an electrically adjustable driver’s seat as standard that includes four-way lumbar adjustment. The steering wheel powers in and out, as well as up and down. Throughout, the seats are superbly cushioning and extremely supportive, so it's easy for to get super-comfortable. Door and centre armrests make for a relaxing drive.

This car is big certainly, but less daunting to drive than might be expected. Even the entry-level AMG Line trim gets front and rear parking sensors plus a rear-view camera as standard. Semi-autonomous parking and a 360° camera are standard on all other trim levels. Infotainment and navigation systems are second-to-none.

Driving The Mercedes Benz S-Class

As ever, there’s a choice of engines including a plug-in hybrid. The 2.9 litre six-cylinder S350d diesel has 282bhp offering brisk acceleration. Try the 326bhp S400d, for more power still. There’s also the S500,with a 3.0 litre six-cylinder petrol engine developing a huge 429bhp. Mild hybrid electrical assistance sharpens up the standard nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Big does not mean slow and, a note for long-distance drivers, the diesels are perhaps the engines to choose to minimise fuel consumption, but, with new advances, the difference in consumption over the petrol engine is not that great.

The ride, as will be expected, is exemplary, travelling as it does on air suspension that lowers itself automatically at speed while giving a magic-carpet ride for passengers. 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and even rear-wheel steering appear on some versions. The steering has plenty of reassuring heft and precision, so positioning on the road is easy. The boot (trunk) is ample for all the luggage.

There is one advanced and quite astonishing option which is a fabulous advance in technology. It’s called the E-Active Body Control system, which allows the new S-Class to tilt into corners, countering lean. Further, this technology also raises the ride height by when sensors detect a side impact is imminent, positioning the chassis to take the brunt of the crash via the door sills.

Should You Buy One?

If luxury motoring is desired then yes. The Mercedes Benz S-Class may cost more but this is a vehicle that has been described by some as the ‘best car in the world’ and it certainly sets the benchmark in the luxury segment. With more technology, greater comfort, better driving ability, safety and efficiency than any previous model it is hard to find any more superlatives.