New 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

One thing about Mercedes-Benz sedans is that they get a rap for being strictly luxury-oriented, with refinement the ultimate goal. In the case of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, refinement and sophistication take a back seat to raw, brute power.

Five different models feature four different, powerful engines. The S550 sedan and S550 4MATIC boast a 5.5-liter, 32-valve, 382-horsepower V-8 engine that can blast-off from 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds. Fuel efficiency for both styles checks in at 14 mpg in the city and 20-21 mpg on the highway. The S550 receives newly styled 18-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, a wood and leather steering wheel, trunk closer, and shifts effortlessly through its seven-speed automatic transmission.

If 382 horses aren’t enough to haul your luxury carriage, opt for the S600 and its 5.5-liter, 36-valve 510-horsepower V-12 beast mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. This beast goes 0 to 60 in a lightning-quick 4.5 seconds, but is thirsty. The S600 gets 11 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.

Now, how can Mercedes top the S550 and S600? The S63 has an AMG-built 6.3-liter DOHC 32-valve V-8 with 518-horsepower. The S65 is the king of the hill and for good reason. An AMG-built 6.0 SOHC 36-valve biturbo engine cranks out a whopping 604-horsepower and goes 0-60 in 4.2 seconds. Fuel economy is decent with 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

When it comes to cutting-edge technology and un-paralleled sophistication, it’s hard to beat the S-Class. The advanced COMAND system allows for precise control of the audio, climate, telephone and Navigation systems, front-seat adjustments and many other settings on an 8-inch color-LCD widescreen. Use the COMAND system to control the 6-disc DVD/CD Harmon/Kardon LOGIC7 digital surround-sound system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and memory card input. The optional Night View Assist uses infrared technology to detect images 500 feet ahead in total darkness, and displays them on a black-and-white screen in the instrument cluster. An iPod integration kit, panorama sunroof and Drive-Dynamic multicontour front seats with 4-stage massage function round are just some of the fun, luxurious options.

When it comes to safety, Mercedes-Benz offers its landmark PRE-SAFE system as a standard feature.  PRE-SAFE uses sensors to detect certain vehicle movements that indicate a potential accident, and tightens seatbelts and takes other measures to ensure maximum safety. Other safety features include a standard 4-wheel Electronic Traction System and an Electronic Stability Program. Standard dual front airbags and front/rear window curtain airbags with an integrated rollover sensor protect both rows of passengers in a collision. Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with an Antilock Braking System, Parking Guidance System, Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake Force Distribution increase stopping power, help maintain steering ability, and prevent wheel lockup.

With all its power, technology and safety features, under the umbrella of world-class luxury, it’s hard to find a weakness in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.