 Luxury Cars: The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 is
definitely more luxurious, definitely sportier, and
definitely more expensive. However, it may be the most
luxurious sedan of its class, which makes that last
"more" more palatable. This front-engine, rear-wheel
drive, five-passenger sedan is loaded with plushy
perks. It has an easy-to-shift seven-speed automatic
transmission backed by a powerful 5.5-liter V-8 engine
with 382 horsepower and dual-overhead cams. The S550
accelerates from zero to 60 in 5.4 seconds. Its
air-suspension system prompts various reviewers to
rate it "best-in-class" for comfort and stability.
The new Mercedes Distronic Adaptive Cruise Control®,
with its two radar frequencies that sweep out 160
yards ahead, sounds a warning beep if it "thinks" the
car is closing in too fast on an upcoming vehicle, and
it is can break the vehicle up to 20 percent. The
COMMAND® controller, which provides easy and
convenient operation of the vehicle's systems, such as
audio, climate control, navigation, multi-contour seat
adjustments, telephone, and most of vehicle settings,
replaces the iDrive® system.
The interior is very plush with hand-fitted leather
upholstery, head restraints, and center armrests. The
steering wheel is trimmed with leather, while the
dashboard, control console and doors are highlighted
by hand-polished burl walnut. For sound control, the
windows are made of double-insulated glass. The
multi-adjustable and, yes, massaging seats have a wide
variety of settings. The front seats have lumbar
control and can be pre-programmed with three options.
And the 600-watt Harman/Kardon surround-sound audio
system defies description.
The S550 is two inches longer this year, measuring 205
inches. It is 58 inches high and tips the scale at
4,270 pounds. The base MSRP is $86,175, but with
options added it can easily exceed $105,000. The S550
has a ton of features, which is indicative from its
Tolstoy-like lengthy 700-page owner's manual. It's a
good thing that it is not required reading before
driving this beauty, right? But it is recommended
reading.
For LxM James Rothaar |
CAR SHOWS
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