Mercedes-Benz introduced its new-generation S-Class in SA a year ago but Covid-19 put the brakes on the media launch, so our first chance to drive the car was last week at a media event in Cape Town.
Coinciding with the unveiling of the new ultraluxury Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, which we were able to view but not drive, Mercedes had its two regular S-Class models available for wafting through the winelands: the S350 diesel and the S500 4Matic.
What stands out most about the car is its velvety ride, with adaptive air suspension ironing out the vagaries of scarred roads. Its silence also impresses, and apart from the not-unpleasant engine song when you urge the throttle, this big sedan cruises serenely.V6 petrol with a 48V electrical system, and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
The W223, as the seventh-generation S-Class is called in-house by Mercedes, is safer than before and more luxurious and technically advanced. It’s considerably larger than the previous S-Class, allowing passengers to enjoy its many amenities with even moreThe cabin is the expected lap of luxury, blending comfort with high-class finishes and hi-tech digital interfaces. The latest MBUX operating system has 50% more processing power than before and runs on a 12.