There are luxury sedans, and then there is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. When this latest generation arrived two years ago, it came with very high expectations resting on its fenders. While driving different models of sedans, we can usually rank them according to a preconceived scale of comfort and performance. But once in a while, we get to drive a car that exceeds all the expected boundaries for its class; the new S-Class is that exceptional.
Mercedes’ premiere model since the 1950s, the S-Class has been a barometer of sorts for each era. The circa-1991 S-Class debuted as a perfect symbol of the brash capitalism then prevalent. It seemed indestructible, and movies such as “The Peacemaker” happily depicted it as such. “Ride of the Valkyries” would have been its soundtrack. Unfortunately, it arrived somewhat dated in its concept, as environmental concerns were then gaining ground. As a result, the subsequent model was kinder, gentler—and smaller, both to the eye and to the tape measure. Cue the “Pastoral Symphony.” Awakening of Cheerful Feelings, indeed.
Now, this latest generation returns to the brashness, tempered with a bit of elegance. The sheet metal employs plenty of curves. It confidently uses styling cues like flared wheel wells, an F1-shaped splitter below the front bumper, and angled taillamps similar to the Maybach’s. The S-Class available here is the long-wheelbase model, which checks in at 5.2 meters long. A Kia Picanto would fit within its four wheels. The rather busy styling helps to hide the car’s bulk, and the car looks smaller than its actual dimensions.
Splendid isolation is the prevailing environment within the S-Class. The engine whispers, no matter where the tach needle happens to be pointing. Road noise is all but banished. So are road imperfections such as bumps and potholes. They hardly register, as if the car is riding on a cushion of air.
As befits a car in this price range, the S can be ordered with nearly any conceivable option short of a butler. Wireless cellphone interface, keyless-go system, DVD system, and a refrigerator accessible from the rear seat are on the checklist. Infrared night vision, projected onto the instrument panel (the car’s speedometer is actually a display on a video screen) is standard on the S 500. Our “base” S 350 came with a long list of standard equipment, including seats that are motorized for all movements, including the headrests; a backup camera that displays the car’s target position; a concert-worthy audio system; and power-closing doors and trunk.
The top variant is the S 63 super limousine, which carries 510 hp under its hood. There’s also a discreetly armored version, the S 600 Guard.
On the S 350, Mercedes’ 3.5 liter V6 does a sufficient job of propelling nearly two tons of automobile. It helps that the peak 350 Nm is delivered from as low as 2400 rpm, and subtle prods of the accelerator are all that’s needed to keep up with traffic. When it comes to high-tailing it, the 272 hp is keenly appreciated.
Shifts feel stiff when the gearbox is cold, but once it warms up, the seven-speed automatic is silky and seamless. It’s too bad that Mercedes’ superb V6 and V8 diesels are not yet available, as they would deliver even better in-gear acceleration and fuel economy.
One occupant that the S-Class has not forgotten is the one who sits behind the wheel. Despite its mission to cosset the rear-seat passengers, the driver is richly rewarded. The steering is light but rich with feedback. The car changes direction with an agility that would shame many smaller sports sedans. If Mika Hakkinen had retired to become a bank president, this would be his car. “Ode to Joy” should be playing.
By Jason K. Ang | Photos by Ulysses Ang
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