Luxury class

MERCEDES-Benz refers to its current S-Class as "the essence of luxury" and even those who are not fans of the brand with the three-pointed star may find it hard to disagree with this statement. Since the 1960s, the S-Class has gained a reputation for being one of the most comfortable full-size limousines on the market. Add to that the fact that it always debuts with the latest safety innovations and it is little wonder the S-Class has become synonymous with the luxury saloon.

But as it continues to raise the luxury stakes with the latest model, the icon itself is starting to look very different. Over the years, the strong and square styling of the S-Class has given way to smoother, flowing lines, culminating in this unusually curvaceous sixth-generation sedan. And for the first time in the S-Class's history, the development focus was on the long-wheelbase version, unlike in previous generations when it was derived from the standard-wheelbase car.

This emphasis on the rear of the cabin is clear - the current model is wider with a 14 mm increase in rear kneeroom over its predecessor. So on the 5.25-metre-long car with an extended 3,165 mm wheelbase, it translates into an extra 130 mm over the standard saloon. Sitting in the back of the S400L with the rear and side window blinds up is like lounging on a La-Z-Boy in a small living room. Except that the Merc is funkier and the leather a lot softer. There is a pillowy headrest and generous legroom, even when the pair of electrically operated rear seats are fully reclined.