Test Drive: 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 350 Bluetec - Autos.ca

2012 Mercedes-Benz S 350 Bluetec 4MATIC. Click image to enlarge

Just as the interior design seems a touch dated, the exterior looks are overshadowed by the latest designs in Mercedes’ own lineup, like the E-Class (Sedan, Coupe, and Wagon) and CLS-Class, never mind the SL… it is a previous-generation design, and though dignified and admirable, I find myself looking forward to the next S-Class that will follow the family theme. I even find myself looking back to the previous generation and preferring its more traditional profile and grille.

But under the sheetmetal, Mercedes-Benz has delivered a masterpiece. While I didn’t quite come around on this powertrain in the ML 350 Bluetec (or more likely, it was overall dynamics that held me back from really loving that truck), I am now sold. This 3.0L turbodiesel is a phenomenal engine and is so perfect with this car. With the power harnessed to all four wheels, the power comes on subtly, never tearing away from a stoplight or breaking traction, always blunting power delivery initially then surging when the seven-speed automatic unleashes the massive torque, pinning you deep into the well-padded seats and sending you smoothly on your way up to the car’s preferred autobahn speeds. The numbers are 240 in the horsepower department and 455 lb-ft of torque at a diesel-like 1,600 rpm. While there is a very slight grumble typical of a diesel at low rpms, you will only notice it if you are looking for it and is no worse than other gasoline direct injection engines at idle.

The list of features and safety options available on the S-Class could fill pages, so check out the Mercedes-Benz configurator and option out your dream S-Class. Ours was outfitted with the $6,500 AMG Sport Package, the $4,900 Advanced Driving Package (this includes various driving aids that can help you avoid various collisions), the $5,900 Premium Package, and another $1,500 for the 20-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels. Those options add almost $20K to the $109,900 MSRP, but the S350 Bluetec, alongside the S 400 hybrid, is one of the lowest-priced options in the S-Class lineup.

This is not a car that sells in huge volumes (except in Dubai), and you have to have ‘made it’ in whatever profession you hold in order to afford the price of entry into S-Class ownership. Some people will see it is a status symbol, but you’ll be riding in absolute comfort, driving efficiently and with immaculate poise, and enjoying the fruits of your labours, your talent, or your luck (or perhaps a combination of the three). One thing I will never do is question your choice.

Pricing: 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 350 Bluetec 4MATIC
Base price: $109,900
Options: $18,800 (AMG Sport Package, $6,500; Advanced Driving Package, $4,900; Premium Package, $5,900; 20-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels, $1,500).
A/C tax: $100
Freight: $1,995
Price as tested: $130,795

Specifications
2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class