A kind of magic

Singapore — When it comes to advanced technology, luxury limousines are the first ones to get all the cutting-edge features. Radar-based cruise control and infrared cameras — all these have descended from the aerospace industry straight into top-of-the-line cars.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class probably has enough technology to make a fighter jet envious. But how this is presented and put to use is something truly special.

Neo-Classic design

This is the sixth-generation of perhaps the most famous Mercedes around, and it’s got a big reputation to live up to. The new model, code-named W222, takes a firm step ahead of current automotive technology with its design.

Mercedes-Benz has adopted a new design language as of late, one that communicates more emotion through organic curves and sweeping lines. It works better on some models than on others but, with the S-Class, it produces a superb example of a stylish, modern-looking car with classic saloon proportions.

Three models are currently available. The sole petrol variant is the S 500, with a 4.7-litre turbocharged V8. An S 350 with a petrol V6 engine is expected late next year.

Less costly are the S 350 Bluetec, with a V6 turbodiesel engine, and the S 400 L Hybrid, with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, 28bhp electric motor and small lithium-ion battery.

As a hybrid, it adds electric power when going forward and recoups kinetic energy when stopping and braking, although it can’t run on electric power for long because of the small battery.

But the car’s sheer refinement means that’s not an issue. Power is developed smoothly, almost imperceptibly in a widening swell. Along with an ineffable ride quality, superb body control and light, accurate steering, the car rivals a Rolls-Royce for comfort — for less than half the price, if you’re keeping count.

Dominating the front is a massive 31.2cm display area that incorporates infotainment and control on the left, and an active instrument panel on the right. Snazzy graphics create an environment very much like the glass cockpit in a modern jet aircraft.

As driver or passenger, you’ll feel like you’re floating over the road, untroubled by earthly concerns, a sensation supported by the wonderful interior. Again, it’s a blend of classic (wood, leather and metal embellishments) and new (infotainment, LED mood lighting) that fuses together wonderfully.

A New Era In Luxury?

With the vast amount of space and luxurious design, it feels like a yacht or private jet. Again, what the S-Class brings to the segment isn’t new, but it puts these features together in a way that oozes next-generation luxury.

It’s so full of ridiculously thoughtful helper systems that it borders on the ludicrous. There are more than 100 motors and actuators in the car — even the air-conditioning vents are automated. There are systems to massage you with hot stones, purify the air, help against cross winds, and enable you to surf the Internet, watch TV or simply kick your feet up. It even dims the taillights when stopped to avoid blinding drivers behind it.

If we were to nit-pick, the only complaint is that the interface, never a strength of Mercedes, displays occasional lag and the sheer number of systems will bewilder the less tech-savvy. Once in a while, the transmission can slur its downshifts, and there is minor pitching over especially violent bumps.

On the whole, the S-Class is a stand-out car, and raises the bar very high indeed for its segment. It’s almost entirely blip-free.

Science-fiction writer Arthur C Clarke once said: “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”

The time when cars become so high-tech they’re magical isn’t here yet, but that day is coming, and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one big step towards it.

Mercedes-Benz S 400 L Hybrid

Engine: 3,498cc V6, 306bhp & 370Nm

Electric Motor: 28bhp, 250Nm

Battery: Lithium-Ion

Performance: 250kmh, 0-100kmh 6.8s, 6.3L/100km, 147g/km CO2

System Total: 330bhp

Price: S$484,888 with COE

+: Extremely refined, a great blend of old and new

- : Those less tech-savvy might get confused

Also Consider: Audi A8 3.0 TDI, BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Series, Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid