The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an icon for the Mercedes brand and serves as the benchmark by which all other large luxury sedans are measured. The model range is vast ranging from $90,000 on the lower end to $200,000 on the upper end. The S-Class is a handsomely styled vehicle with a complex combination of smooth and angular surfaces. Prominent wheel arches make the new S-Class appear more muscular than its predecessor. Interior trim materials include wood, chrome, leather, and aluminum. The S-Class uses the COMAND system to manage secondary controls via a multi-function LCD panel, and a center console-mounted rotary "mouse". All S-Class sedans feature a standard navigation system. Audio is provided by a harman/kardon LOGIC 7 system with 600-watts and 14-speakers. Navigation, audio, and telephone systems can be voice-controlled via the COMAND interface. As expected, the new S-Class is packed with new safety features. Examples include a radar-based Distronic-Plus cruise control, and active infrared night vision system. The PRE-SAFE system activates the passive and active safety systems if it determines a collision is imminent. There is no doubt that the ninth-generation S-Class will continue to please its loyal customers. What is more uncertain is if new buyers will be swayed instead by the more sporty BMW 7-Series, the understated style of the Audi A8, or the utterly reliable reputation of the Lexus LS 460. With a huge price spread, the S-Class also draws newer more exclusive competitors like the Maserati Quattroporte and Bentley Flying Spur.

What Changed:

The S-Class adds a gas/electric model dubbed S400 BlueHYBRID. The electric hybrid system is added to the 3.5L V6 engine and 7-speed automatic from the S350. The hybrid system is composed of a 15kW electric motor hybrid motor and a lithium-ion battery pack.