Mercedes-Benz S-Class review

• For: Quality, refinement, comfort
• Against: Huge price, depreciation, running costs
• Verdict: Arguably the best saloon car in the world – but it retires soon

Whether you’re relaxing in the back or at the wheel, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one of the most comfortable and relaxing cars on sale.

Not that the current S-Class is long for this world. Later in 2020, it will be replaced by a new hybrid-only model, a sign the luxury saloon might be developing a conscience.

For now, though, there are three flavours of S-Class available: Saloon, Coupe and Cabriolet, with rorty AMG S 63 versions available for each body style.

Prices start from £76,000, but the Coupe costs £113,000, while the Cabriolet weighs in at £132,000.

Still, few cars offer such a delightful blend of quality, sophistication and dazzling technology. Long wheelbase and plug-in hybrid versions are also offered, along with an utterly unhinged S 63L, which is powered by a twin-turbocharged petrol V8.

It’s like strapping a pair of rockets to a five-star hotel room.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2013
• Facelifted: 2017
• Due for replacement: 2020
• Warranty: 3 years / unlimited miles