2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

First Drive: 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550

10/06/2006

Shahed Hussain

A new S-Class is a major event for Mercedes-Benz and its loyal customers. The latest generation sedan was introduced at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show, after much anticipation from the media and customers. The previous model was available as the S430, S500 and S600 in the US. Currently, Mercedes offers the S550 (also with 4MATIC AWD), the S600 V-12 sedan, and the staggeringly powerful S65 AMG with 604-bhp 6.0L twin turbo V-12. The S550 starts around $86K and rises quickly, depending on the vast array of options chosen. The range-topping S65 AMG begins at about $182K, and a loaded model can exceed a breathtaking $200K. Obviously, the S550 will be the most popular of the S-Class models, although it carries a $10-20K price premium over the BMW 750i and Audi A8L. Then again, Mercedes buyers are accustomed to paying more for an S-Class.

If the pre-2006 S-Class had one weakness, it was probably the somewhat undistinguished exterior styling. Yes, it looked like a Mercedes-Benz, but in a nondescript, vague stodgy sort of way. What the new S-Class needed was more dynamic styling to better differentiate itself from competitors. Without squinting too hard, you can see elements of the Maybach super luxury sedan, but without the awkward lines or unattractive paint schemes. A comprehensive set of standard and optional features, which include a choice of three special designo packages ($11,120 each), allow each buyer to customize the S550 to their desires.

Inside the S550 can best be described as a luxurious living room. Soft leather and deep brown wood are everywhere. Polished metal accents contrast to the dark interior color scheme. As expected, expansive room for four or five adults ensures fatigue-free traveling. The front seats have just the right amount of support, but yet are not too soft. Lateral support is minimal, but with 14-way power adjustments, most people will find just the right seat settings for their comfort. Even the steering wheel has 4-way power adjustments for reach and rake. With such comprehensive seat and steering adjustability, the S550 can comfortably accommodate nearly anyone.

A German luxury sedan would not be complete without some technological wizardry, and the S550 is no exception. The instrument panel is a typical example of technology for its own sake. Look closely and you will see that the speedometer is actually an electronic display of a virtual gauge and needle. The tachometer and fuel gauge are conventional electroluminescent instruments, but appear nearly identical to the speedometer. While the electronic speedometer is a cool feature, it seems like a gimmick. Will customers appreciate (or even notice) the difference? Or is this just an example of engineering overkill? We tend to think the latter is true; but then again we don't fit the S-Class demographics either.

Mercedes uses its COMAND interface to control climate control, audio, navigation, and the integrated mobile phone. We advise a few minutes of familiarization with the COMAND settings to prevent confusion and frustration, especially while driving. Although the COMAND system manages the radio, the interface is surprisingly intuitive. To tune a station, all you have to do is rotate the center COMAND dial, and the tuning "needle" slides to the next station. Our preference would be to use conventional buttons and knobs for radio and climate controls, but the COMAND system is certainly a viable alternative.

Since the S550 is a luxury sedan, low steering effort and isolated feel are the order of the day. The steering does tighten up at speed so that the S550 tracks straight on the highway, but reverts to almost fingertip effort at parking lot speeds. The consequences of the almost numb steering are that no kickback or road texture makes it way to the driver's fingertips. While the steering isolation is ideal for cruising down the highway, around curves the minimal feedback, and noticeable body roll encourages restraint. You are always aware that this massive car demands respect. We doubt that most customers will tear around their local back roads in the S550, so ultimate handling and grip is not a high priority.

Some customers may find the standard S550 is too tame for their tastes. If so, consider the $5,600 AMG Sport Package that adds aggressive 5-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, performance tires (255/40R19 front, 275/40R19 rear), plus a special air dam, side sills, and rear valance. Mercedes-Benz warns that the sport tires will degrade ride comfort, but you knew that, right? Although, we did not have the opportunity to drive an S550 with the AMG Sport Package, we suspect that some buyers may find the style and handling more to their liking.

A new 382-bhp 5.5L V-8 is a vast improvement over the 302-bhp 5.0L V-8 it replaces. This powerplant is smooth, refined, and nearly inaudible. A seamless 7-speed automatic has the right ratio for any speed. Mercedes claims 0-60 MPH in 5.4 seconds, which is sports car territory. Cruising at 70-90 MPH, the S550 is calm and relaxed. This sedan was bred for the autobahn, so typical highway speeds in the USA are no challenge at all. Dip into the throttle, and the intoxicating power and acceleration will make that tailgating SUV recede from your rear view mirror. When it comes time to slow down, the powerful 4-wheel vented discs, with 4-piston front calipers haul down the S550 with ease. Noticeable brake dive occurs due to the compliant suspension tuning, but that is the price of the superb ride comfort.

Ultimately, the S550 is an uninvolving automobile to drive. Although perfectly suited to cruise at illegal speeds, this Benz is reluctant to attack a curving road. For driving enthusiasts who may be put off by the standard suspension tuning, the AMG Sport Package should sharpen the reflexes of the S550. Of course, if money is no object, the blindingly fast S65 AMG is your chariot. Or you could consider the BMW 750iL or Audi A8L for a more sporting (and less expensive) experience.

For pure luxury, the new S-Class remains the standard by which other premium sedans are judged. Mercedes-Benz methodically improved every aspect of their flagship to take on all competitors. The new Lexus LS460 is probably the strongest rival to the S-Class, at a significantly lower price. Value-oriented buyers might be swayed by the impeccably reliable Lexus, a superb value among luxury sedans. Nevertheless, for many traditionalists, there is no substitute for a Benz, and the new S550 demonstrates that these customers need make no apologies for their choice.