The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is Still the Benchmark for Luxury Cars - Reviewing a 2015 S 550 W222

For six generations, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has set the standard for what a luxury car should be. With every incarnation, the German maker pushed the bar forward on safety and luxury, unveiling technology and features that ultimately trickles down to other cars. The first SRS airbag system, the first anti-lock brakes, the first CAN Bus electronics package, the first pre-tensioned seat belts, and so on and so forth. Also, the technology has moves from nuts and bolts German engineering to a far more mass and machine produced feel, which has both benefits and drawbacks. But all-in-all, the S-Class is where it's at, luxury car-wise.

This W222 S-Class continues that legacy. As much as I want to complain about the autonomous features, and continuing disconnect between driver and machine, that technology somehow feels more appropriate on this car. In fact, it's the first S-Class that gives as much thought to the back seat passengers as it does those in front, primarily to gear up for the Chinese market (heavy on chauffeured services). This car can drive itself, park itself, and pamper the occupants in an opulence heretofore unheard of in a mass produced car. In many ways, it feels like Mercedes-Benz has its sights set more on Bentley and Rolls Royce than the standard BMW and Audi competition.

With technology and features too plentiful to list, this W222 has not lost sight of what it has to be before it can be anything else - the best mass produced luxury car made today.

Full review and test drive by Bill. Car supplied by private owner.