The car goes down the road so quietly that we have the impression that we're puttering along, and yet, we're cruising at 120 km/h. So we get off the highway without really slowing down, and the next thing we realize is that on the off-ramp, we're still going 90 clicks when we should be doing 45. But the car stays planted and keeps its cool, hunkers down and takes that curve with a squeal. The ride is smooth, despite the presence of the Sport package; the similar package on the BMW 7-Series gives the car is much-stiffer suspension setup.
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive goes pretty much unnoticed. I am driving this car in the summer, so trying out this system isn't quite easy, unless I push to the car to its threshold down twisty roads, which isn't really recommended in a $130,000 car that's not yours.
In normal driving conditions, 4MATIC splits 55% of power to the rear wheels, and 45% to the front. If wheel slippage occurs, the system will react by sending power to the wheels that have the most grip. I'd gladly skip it, since the car is already loaded with traction and stability control devices, but all S550 models will be equipped with 4MATIC in 2008.
A beauty
I really like the new designs coming out of Benz's studios. Their cars have fluid and soft lines, but with creased muscular traits at the same time; I especially like the bulging front and rear fenders. The optional AMG Sport group adds more-aggressive bumpers, side skirts as well as magnificent 19-inch alloys.
Inside, the appearance is more subtle. However, the dashboard is nicely highlighted with wood trim and chrome switchgear. Fit and finish is obviously irreproachable.
Competition
The S550 4MATIC costs $122,000 or $2,500 more than the rear-wheel drive model. As for options, this test car also carries the aforementioned AMG Sport group ($7,000) and night vision ($2,500), for a total of $131,500.
The BMW 750iL remains the main rival, and similarly-equipped as this Mercedes, it costs $121,100.
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| The 4MATIC system works seamlessly. |
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive goes pretty much unnoticed. I am driving this car in the summer, so trying out this system isn't quite easy, unless I push to the car to its threshold down twisty roads, which isn't really recommended in a $130,000 car that's not yours.
In normal driving conditions, 4MATIC splits 55% of power to the rear wheels, and 45% to the front. If wheel slippage occurs, the system will react by sending power to the wheels that have the most grip. I'd gladly skip it, since the car is already loaded with traction and stability control devices, but all S550 models will be equipped with 4MATIC in 2008.
A beauty
I really like the new designs coming out of Benz's studios. Their cars have fluid and soft lines, but with creased muscular traits at the same time; I especially like the bulging front and rear fenders. The optional AMG Sport group adds more-aggressive bumpers, side skirts as well as magnificent 19-inch alloys.
Inside, the appearance is more subtle. However, the dashboard is nicely highlighted with wood trim and chrome switchgear. Fit and finish is obviously irreproachable.
Competition
The S550 4MATIC costs $122,000 or $2,500 more than the rear-wheel drive model. As for options, this test car also carries the aforementioned AMG Sport group ($7,000) and night vision ($2,500), for a total of $131,500.
The BMW 750iL remains the main rival, and similarly-equipped as this Mercedes, it costs $121,100.
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| The three-pointed star is one of the world's most recognizable emblem. |