The Mercedes-Benz flagship is a showcase of luxury, comfort and technology. Each new model continues this tradition. In almost every important attribute for a luxury car, every iteration of the S-Class has been a benchmark of excellence.
This version brought a host of advanced technology, while upping the luxury ante on many levels. The driving experience is first class, with an extremely hushed cabin, a supremely comfortable ride and effortless power delivery. If you prefer to drive yourself, you'll be happy to know this 5,000-pound super sedan behaves like a ballerina in the corners. And, if the complicated controls distract you, the Mercedes will nudge you back into your lane and even stop itself in an emergency.
S-Class models have the distinction of being the best-riding cars we've ever tested. Supremely quiet, the big Benz always provides a relaxed and fatigue-free driving environment, with responsive and enjoyable handling. Unlike most competitors, when corners become demanding the S550 becomes an agile sports sedan.
Cutting edge technology includes a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience features employing a battery of radar sensors and cameras. The active cruise control, called Distronic Plus with Steering Assist, keeps a set distance from a vehicle in front, regardless of changing speeds. It also follows the lane you're driving in automatically. The steering wheel actually moves by itself to track the lane -- though it does not permit operation with your hands off the wheel. These convenience features can help ease stress, but drivers must remain fully engaged with the driving process to remain safe.
The rear seat belts are inflatable, acting as mini airbags to prevent rib-cage injuries. The Pre-Safe system identifies a car, or a pedestrian in your path of travel will bring the car to a complete stop if required, even if you fail to do so.
Cabin ambiance is sumptuous, with huge swaths of polished wood and soft stitched leather. New-school features make things snazzy with mood lighting in your choice of colors and an optional fragrance dispenser. Two huge digital screens comprise the instrument panel. With that said, all of these features and displays do hold the potential to be somewhat distracting.
Seat comfort is terrific. Active seat bolsters inflate as needed to hug you in corners. The seat can also give you a massage to break up long-trip tedium. Annoyingly, the lumbar support adjustment is done through the infotainment screen, using the center controller. Rear passengers enjoy living-room-caliber accommodations with copious amounts of legroom, as well as power recline- and cushion adjustments.