Europeans automakers have, for the most part of time, adhered to a particular styling typeset for a more distinctive 'family look'. BMW has had the twin-grille snout for as long as we can remember, while Audis now bear the signature single frame front grille.
And Mercedes is no exception. The latest S-Class can be recognised as a 'star-bearer' from a distance, with a majestic stance that only the flagship is capable of pulling off.
While the skin is closely linked to the brand's heritage and identity, we can't say the same for its powerplant.
Judging from the number of diesel cars on our roads, oil burners are certainly the more neglected option when it comes to passenger cars.
The S-Class, undoubtedly, is the cream of crop for Mercedes. Still, Merc is convinced that this alternative fuel choice deserves a second chance, with the S350L BlueTEC filling in one of the three initial spots (the others being the S400L Hybrid and the S500L).
And Mercedes is no exception. The latest S-Class can be recognised as a 'star-bearer' from a distance, with a majestic stance that only the flagship is capable of pulling off.
While the skin is closely linked to the brand's heritage and identity, we can't say the same for its powerplant.
Judging from the number of diesel cars on our roads, oil burners are certainly the more neglected option when it comes to passenger cars.
The S-Class, undoubtedly, is the cream of crop for Mercedes. Still, Merc is convinced that this alternative fuel choice deserves a second chance, with the S350L BlueTEC filling in one of the three initial spots (the others being the S400L Hybrid and the S500L).
Up close and Personal
While the exterior is an organic, progressive improvement over the predecessor, the S-Class' cabin is a huge leap. That is not to say the previous was ill-equipped by any standard, but the latest flagship is simply astonishing.
It is hard not to fall for the instrinsic attention to details, such as the LED ambient lighting and tactile switches that have been tastefully blended into the console's styling.
All-round allowances are more generous than you would have expected too. And such is the wealth of cabin space that you will find even the biggish 12.3-inch multimedia display to be small.
The Drive
Despite being caught occasionally in start stop traffic during our test drive, the diesel managed to put out a more earthly consumption figure of 10.5km/L - compared to just 6km/L on the hybrid we tested earlier.
The oil burner's monumental 620Nm of torque also proves to be more than mere figures. While both the diesel and hybrid boast a century sprint timing of 6.8 seconds, it is in the diesel where the oomph is more obvious, catapulting the near-two-tonne flagship between lights like a stroll in the park.
Least to anyone's surprise, the S-Class isn't exactly made for the keen driver. In fact, with the steering wheel slightly offset to the left, the driving position is not the best in class.
What it does hand out, however, is an effortless driving experience that is like no others. Part credit goes to the variable ratio steering that allows you to manoeuvre the 5.2-metre flagship without breaking a sweat.
Despite being caught occasionally in start stop traffic during our test drive, the diesel managed to put out a more earthly consumption figure of 10.5km/L - compared to just 6km/L on the hybrid we tested earlier.
The oil burner's monumental 620Nm of torque also proves to be more than mere figures. While both the diesel and hybrid boast a century sprint timing of 6.8 seconds, it is in the diesel where the oomph is more obvious, catapulting the near-two-tonne flagship between lights like a stroll in the park.
Least to anyone's surprise, the S-Class isn't exactly made for the keen driver. In fact, with the steering wheel slightly offset to the left, the driving position is not the best in class.
What it does hand out, however, is an effortless driving experience that is like no others. Part credit goes to the variable ratio steering that allows you to manoeuvre the 5.2-metre flagship without breaking a sweat.
And if you think the driver has it good in the S-Class, the passengers will have it better. Besides the sumptuous buffet of room at the rear, the air suspension is proficient in taking out any imperfection on the tarmac - like a ride on the magic carpet.
In short, the experience is nothing short of business class - although it does without the kebaya-clad waitresses at your service.
Conclusion
Opting for the S350L BlueTEC will save you a handsome $37,000 over its hybrid equivalent, athough it means that you get smaller, more inert looking rims and hidden rear exhaust. Arguably, the latter is much easier to make do with as it gives the S-Class a more refined look.
While the savings and fewer stops at the petrol kiosk may not be enticing enough to S-Class owners, we reckon the more potent performance will - especially to those who self drive their limos.
In short, the experience is nothing short of business class - although it does without the kebaya-clad waitresses at your service.
Conclusion
Opting for the S350L BlueTEC will save you a handsome $37,000 over its hybrid equivalent, athough it means that you get smaller, more inert looking rims and hidden rear exhaust. Arguably, the latter is much easier to make do with as it gives the S-Class a more refined look.
While the savings and fewer stops at the petrol kiosk may not be enticing enough to S-Class owners, we reckon the more potent performance will - especially to those who self drive their limos.
