The S350 CDI L we have here is the more sensible model for India. Yes, a big V8 is a great thing to have, but for those to whom power isn’t everything and practicality and luxury are the highest priority, the CDI fits the bill perfectly. It’s not like you’re losing out on much either, it packs in almost identical amounts of equipment.
You have the same luxury interior, swathed in leather with all the electronic goodies at your fingertips, whether you take the front seat or occupy the rear. The panoramic sunroof adds more airiness to the already plush cabin which delivers living room-like comfort. The doors and the boot are of the soft-closing variety and the LED-laden headlamps provide a distinct identity during the day, while providing optimised illumination after dark.
The COMAND Online system packs satellite navigation, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a six-DVD changer, hard drive, USB and Aux connectors, apart from offering settings for every electronically-controlled vehicle function there is, including the cool ambient lighting. A pair of remote controls at the rear allow similar information to be delivered to the twin rear LCD screens. Of course, you wouldn’t have to bother if you’re making the most of the Chauffeur Package, legs outstretched and all, with your beverage of choice in the chiller right next to you, and your head resting on the delightfully cushioned headrest.
While the equipment list is great, there is the matter of what you don’t get for the Rs 30-odd lakh difference in price that the S500 has in comparison. First off, you have a pair less of cylinders, tweeters, memory seats and extendable sun visors up front. Apart from those missing pairs, you lose out on the power boot, the NightView Assist and the 360º surround parking camera.
Another big difference is that the rear seats five, with the flowing centre stack not present in the diesel. Yes, you can still fold it down and use it as an arm rest. That’s about it, if you don’t consider the engine specs. The difference is quite a bit, but the performance speaks volumes for the diesel. It’s quiet and unhurried but gets on with the job very well indeed. Even better news is that this 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel is not the diet version we had the last time around – the one with 210 PS and 490 Nm. This one packs the global-spec 258 PS and 620 Nm! And that translates into some seriously quicker times.
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