Mercedes-Benz India have finally brought in the diesel S-Class, which many believe is the last word in oil-burning luxury. Does it live up to that belief? Let’s find out.
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
How does one become the best? Through the pursuit of excellence or unwavering focus? Many, if not all, aim to be better than someone or create something better than what someone else has created. We all know that’s not the answer. However, having a clear focus and improving upon where you’ve reached every step of the way will help you stay away from the crowd, always. When you aim to be better than what you were yesterday, regardless of what the world around you is throwing up or even at you, that’s when true growth takes place. That’s the journey of excellence. Constant improvement. And when you peak with what is physically possible, take on a new base altogether. When you aim to beat the best, you can always be better. When you aim to be the best, you most often end up becoming just that. That’s what the S-Class is. It’s never a new player; it just raises the playing field.
Mercedes launched the W222 S-Class earlier in 2014 and, although it was the S500 L, complete with a big twin-turbo V8 petrol motor, the new car set the benchmark for its segment, and that’s saying something, considering the options you have. There are a slew of changes the new S brings, primarily the one related to construction. Remember, this S-Class, the 222, was created as a long-wheelbase model from the outset. The shorter-wheelbase model, which is not on sale in India, was derived from it. Thus, the entire package just feels, well, perfectly put together. It looks gorgeous, purposeful and every bit the luxury flagship it is, and the proportions offer generous room and allow for the inclusion of several creature comforts which amplify the feel of uncompromised luxury. We tested the S500 L back in January and came away very impressed.
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