Mercedes-Benz S-Class driven - Performance

The diesel engine is smooth and punchy, too, so it's hard to see why you'd choose anything else. However, petrol fans can have a 3.5 V6 (S350) a 5.5 V8 (S500) or a twin-turbo 5.5 V12 (S600).

Mercedes has also developed a hybrid S-Class, it combines the 3.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and emits just 186g/km of CO2. Practicality isn't compromised as it is in the rival Lexus LS600h, because the batteries are under the bonnet instead of in the boot. Unfortunately, Mercedes has no plans to offer this version in the UK at the moment.