S Class wins top UK award

The old version of the S-Class, which is currently being replaced across the region, was voted the best luxury car by the UK's leading motoring publication beating the new BMW 7 Series and Bentley Flying Spur into second and third places.

In giving the old S-Class the award, the magazine said:

"When Mercedes puts its weight behind a project, the results can be spectacular. The company's approach to redefining what we can expect from the luxury car class was so crushingly thorough, the S-Class still stands out like a beacon four years after its launch."

It added: "When you look at the strength of the competition, you realise the magnitude of that achievement. The scope of the luxury car class means the Mercedes not only has to see off competition from Bentley's latest Flying Spur, but it has also faced a new version of its BMW 7-Series arch-rival this year."

The S-Class has been the region's favourite German luxury sedan since it's launch four decades ago. The latest version is the best yet with new benchmark technology including a world-first display system. SPLITVIEW is an innovative display located in the centre console which allows the driver and front passenger to simultaneously view different content on the same screen. While the driver, for example, uses the map-based navigation system, the front passenger can be watching a film or music DVD. For this purpose, the option includes a remote control unit and headphones.

Mercedes-Benz Cars in the Middle East & Levant is also launching the S400, the world's first series production car to feature a hybrid drive system with a lithium ion battery. The combination of an improved V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the Mercedes Benz S 400 the world's most efficient luxury saloon with a petrol engine. Its fuel consumption of 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres corresponds to carbon dioxide emissions of just 186 grams per kilometre.

The S 400 Hybrid accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds through its seven speed automatic gearbox and has a top speed of around 250 km/h showing that environmentally compatible drive systems and outstanding performance are not necessarily a contradiction in terms.

"Our new version of the S-Class may polish up its looks but we also added more technology to the old values of comfort and style that our customers love,"

said Frank Bernthaler, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East & Levant.

"The S Class is the choice of presidents and kings, but no matter your budget, anyone can enjoy one of the most imposing luxury cars in the world."