The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes standard with a 449-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V8 engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. The base engine enables quick passing maneuvers, but performance-oriented S63 AMG models have an even stronger 557-horsepower V8 engine that accelerates from zero to 60 mph in less than four seconds. The base S-Class delivers 17 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is average for the class.

This super luxury car has no qualms about making sharp turns. Thanks to a light steering system, making turns requires little effort. The standard adjustable air suspension contributes to a smooth and comfortable ride. Some models even come with Magic Body Control, which identifies bumps in the road and adjusts the suspension to smooth out the ride. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but you might find some models with all-wheel drive (4matic).

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Inside, it’s easy to see why the S-class is the Mercedes flagship sedan. There is seating for five (or four in models with a rear-seat center console) and leather upholstery, handcrafted wood accents, and heated, 12-way power-adjustable front seats. Some models include niceties like massaging seats, heated armrests and doors, heated and cooled cup holders, and a cabin air purification system. There’s plenty of room in the first- and second-row seats. The standard COMAND infotainment system has user-friendly controls and crisp graphics. The S-Class has two sets of car-seat LATCH connectors in the rear outer seats.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes with many standard features. These include push-button start, a 13-speaker Burmester surround sound audio system, two 12.3-inch displays, a navigation system, Bluetooth, HD Radio, satellite radio, two USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. You might even find a model with a 24-speaker Burmester surround sound audio system, four-zone automatic climate control, a rear-seat entertainment system with two displays, or a Splitview front-seat entertainment system, which exclusively allows the passenger to watch DVDs.

The 2014 S550 has spaciousaccommodations, exceptional front seats, easy access for those in back, and a fillip of first-class accoutrement. The S-Class has rarely been the high-water mark of Mercedes design. S Class is more exquisite, more finely observed than ever.