The flagship luxury sedan has been completely upgraded and redesigned for 2007. It receives a radical facelift and a new exterior design. Besides, it is also a tad larger than the preceding model (with a stretched wheelbase). Another noteworthy improvement is additional seating area in the rear.

The S-Class strives to redefine luxury by updating its levels of performance, luxury and safety features. State-of-the-art equipment such as the Night View Assist infrared night-vision system and the Distronic Plus cruise control improve ride quality and comfort. It has a basic warranty of 48 months/ 50,000 miles.

The S600 sports a 5.5L 36-valve bi-turbo 510 hp V12 engine with 612 lb-ft worth of torque. It mates with a 5-speed automatic. Shift buttons mounted on the steering wheel facilitate a touch shift gear selection. EPA estimated fuel economy amounts to 12/19 mpg (city/highway).

The S65 AMG version gears up with an AMG-built twin-turbocharged 6.0L 604 hp V12 engine that serves up 738 lb-ft of torque. Like the S600 it teams up with a 5-speed AT as well.

A rear-wheel drive is standard across trims.

Slightly larger than its forerunner; it has a stretched wheelbase (three inches longer) that gives it added space on the inside. Regardless of its height and weight the S-Class is reportedly the most aerodynamic in its class with a 0.26 coefficient of drag.

The new styling cues offer a slicker-upright grille and new headlamps. Sturdy, body-colored horizontal bars run through the new tail lamps; all integrated by the lower body molding. The decklid opening extends out to the side of the body in a more defined stance.

Standard exterior features comprise; a power tilt/sliding tinted glass sunroof, an electrically heated rear window with auto-shutoff, laminated, infrared-reflective glass, dual aero-blade windshield wipers, rain-sensing variable intermittent wipers, dual heated power mirrors with auto-dimming and programmable power side mirrors.

Also included are a variable doorstop, nano-particle paint, bi-xenon high intensity discharge low-/high-beam headlamps, programmable daytime running lamps with auto-on override for the dark and auxiliary LED turn signal indicators integrated into the side mirror housings.

The S65 AMG sports is geared up with AMG sport mufflers with quad exhaust tips and an AMG-designed front air dam with mesh air intakes, side skirts and a rear apron with a mesh air diffuser.

Mercedes' COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) System is simple and has an easy-to-use format. High quality materials, plush leather and burnished wood all move towards adding to its elegance.

The S-Class offers a host of luxury amenities with true Mercedes panache. Optional Dynamic Multi-Contour seats with 11 air chambers mould the seat to the contours of your body and bolster it during aggressive driving or give added support whilst cornering.

Seating space in the rear is comfortable with plenty of legroom as well as shoulder room. A multifunction steering wheel is set with convenient controls for basic audio, voice control, and phone functions, besides operating the multifunction display.

Despite its considerable weight the S-Class feels lithe and sprightly. Steering is agile, responsive and exact. The retuned Airmatic air suspension system gives the S-Class a leaner-sportier attitude. Brake Assist Plus brakes perform exceptionally, especially handy in panic stopping situations.

Instrumentation and controls are simple and user friendly. Sound and noise control technology (includes a patented front floor panel that eliminates both noise and vibration) ensures an absolutely quiet drive.