New 2014 Mercedes S-class review, test drive

Under the hood of the S500 there’s a new refined 448bhp turbocharged V8 with a velvety shift quality. When you are cruising, the gearbox upshifts quickly and revs drop down below 2000rpm for truly tranquil fast-lane progress. It is also capable of incredible bursts of acceleration with 100kph coming up in 4.8 seconds from standstill, very quick for a car of this size. The long gearing and fantastic stability also allow it to cross massive distances effortlessly, all the while pampering its occupants with low levels of noise and fantastic ride comfort. The S-class uses a new system known as Magic Body Control that features twin-cameras that look at the road ahead and adjust the suspension before the car actually gets to the bump. The new S also gets an active suspension system known as Active Body Control (ABC) that keeps body roll in check with the help of sensors mounted in the wheel arches.  

Ride quality is also helped by the greater rigidity of the chassis. The new body shell of the S-class now features an outer skin made from aluminium and the internal structure uses aluminium in combination with hot-formed high-strength steel. Offsetting the slight increase in weight is a dramatic increase in rigidity, which goes a long way to smoothen out the ride.