| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| Quality, style and luxury are S Class hallmarks. Refinement is almost unrivalled comfort is not at issue. This prestigious, quiet, sophisticated and technologically advanced large car is hard to fault. |
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| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Best Models |
| S320 CDi, S55 AMG |
| Worst Models |
| S280 |
| Replacement |
| by current S Class in 2006 |
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| Road Test |
| In recent years S Class has seen mounting competition in the luxury car market; and it has pretty much seen off claimants to its throne. When it comes to price and ability, S Class is hard to beat because of its strong image and world famous badge. The smaller-engined, less expensive models are great value. There's everything from frugal diesel engines to high performance V12s. What they have in common is smooth, effortless, whispering progress. The automatic gearboxes work so seamlessly that they're almost unnoticeable. That's great for those inside, comfortably cocooned in the finely adjustable seats. If rear space is an issue there are also Limousine models, which are even longer. Standard specification is very comprehensive. Fit and finish are (naturally) excellent, but the interior feels Teutonically efficient rather than opulent. Running costs are very high, as is depreciation, but that's not an issue for most S Class buyers. |
| Positive Points |
- Presence, prestige and performance
- An excellent drive despite its imposing size
- Comfort and refinement have few rivals
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| Negative Points |
- High servicing and insurance costs on V8s and V12
- Higher depreciation than smaller Mercedes models
- Options push prices even higher
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