Mercedes recently redesigned its SUV M, small C and mid-size E classes with new lines to create a wonderful series of mod, streamlined profiles. Now the German carmaker has touched up its full-size S, which needed a facelift more than the other three combined. The ninth-incarnation S boasts a complete exterior overhaul, with the most noticeable change being new, slightly flared fenders that endow the S's shape with a real sense of solidity. Taller and longer than before, its bigger grill fits well on those increased dimensions. We could do without the busy "taillamps with integrated body-paint," but other than that Benz has miraculously resuscitated a sedan that was basically lifeless.
One caveat about the new S: If you buy one, don't ever sit in the back seats. They are so insanely roomy -- almost Maybach-ian, with incredibly cushy reclining seats and lighted vanity mirrors -- that you'll want to hire a driver the next day and never get behind the wheel again. Our tester had the optional extra-large rear sunroof, which made it even harder to leave. Which certainly doesn't mean the driver and co-pilot are lacking for amenities. The coolest option up front is the padded flip-top phone built into the center armrest. It doubles as a palm pillow, so you can relax your hand after a long day of signing huge checks on your CEO day job.
In these heady days of huge horsepower in luxe level sedans, the S 550's 382-horse V8 may seem a bit underwhelming. (FYI: Expect to cough up about $50K more for the badass 510-horse, V12 S600.) Even so, we were impressed with its power and pop, and pleasantly surprised by its sprightly 5.4-second 0-to-60 quickness. Overall, the car handles well for its mammoth Olds Delta 88 size, but we've saved the best performance feature for last. Our tester had the optional front seats with pneumatic chambers that inflate to keep you rock solid in your seat as you turn. Does it really help you drive any better? Maybe. Is it over-the-top cool? Definitely.
The new S doesn't announce to women that you have arrived; it bellows that you got there and settled in a while ago.
