Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2012-2021 S Guard

S-Class 2012-2021 S Guard Review

The S-Class is probably one of the most charismatic saloon in its segment. Currently, in the Indian market it is available in three variants and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S Guard is its top end variant. It is equipped with a 6.0-litre, V12 petrol engine that can yield a whopping 5980cc. It is capable of producing a mammoth 523bhp in combination with a pounding torque of 829Nm. This saloon is bestowed with an efficient braking mechanism, which keeps it well balanced and stable. It is further assisted by anti lock braking system in combination with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist system. In addition to these, it also features an electronic stability program that regulates the individual wheel braking and improves its stability. This variant has an aerodynamic body structure with several features that makes it look tempting. Whereas, there are options to customize the interior trims and upholstery as per the choice of buyers. The best part is its diamond pattern seating, which has contrast stitching and piping that emphasizes its exclusiveness. One of the most innovative aspects is its assistance system that features a stereo camera. It captures the objects and pedestrians passing in front of the vehicle and analyses the data using intelligent algorithms. This ultimately makes the driving safer and more relaxing, especially on city roads. It is competing against the likes of Audi A8L, BMW 7 Series and Jaguar XJ in the luxury saloon segment. 

Exteriors:

This variant has a distinct body design and equipped with urbane cosmetics, which gives it a magnificent look on the road. To start with the front fascia, it has a large radiator grille in the center, which is fitted with four horizontally positioned slats. It is flanked by a headlight cluster that is incorporated with adaptive bi-xenon headlamps along with side turn indicator. It also has LED daytime running lights and a sleek bonnet with a company insignia at its tip. It also has a body colored bumper that has a couple of air ducts and a large perforated air dam. This is further surrounded flanked by a pair of bright fog lamps, which gives an aggressive stance to the front. Its large windshield is made of heat insulating glass and is integrated with electronically controlled rain sensors that makes driving in inclement weather a more relaxing affair. This system recognizes that the windscreen is wet and if the intermittent wiper function is active, it automatically sets the correct wiping interval. The lustrous side profile comes with two expressive lines and chrome accentuated door handles. The wheel arches are equipped with an elegant twin spoke alloy wheels, which are covered with high performance tubeless radial tyres that provides a superior road grip. Its external wing mirrors are further equipped with LED side blinkers, which adds to the side safety. It also comes with heating as well as memory function that adds to the comfort level. The rear end has a large tailgate with U shape, which is further equipped with a thick chrome appliqué. Surrounding this is the distinctly crafted taillight cluster that is integrated with innovative LED light pattern.

Interiors:

The interiors are quite enchanting and are done up with premium quality leather and complimented by lots of wood and chrome inserts. The cabin is huge owing to its large wheelbase, which ensures roomy leg space and shoulder room. It has been bestowed with individual seats in front and rear cabin, which are incorporated with several innovative aspects like heating, memory and massage function. The dashboard has a sleek structure and is equipped with several equipments including an illuminated instrument cluster with various functions, infotainment system, automatic AC unit and other such aspects. The dashboard has wood finish with central console and the door panels, which emphasizes the exclusiveness of the insides. Furthermore, there is a lot of chrome treatment, especially on AC vents, door handles and steering wheel, which gives a magnificent look to the cabin. It has four 12V power sockets to connect notebooks, MP3 players, mobile phones and other electric devices. The cabin has a sunglass holder with LED lighting in the overhead control unit. Apart from these, it also has LED reading lamps in the rear, illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and front co-passenger, instrument cluster with 31.2cm TFT color display, an illuminated glove box with ventilation and lockable function.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is fitted with a powerful 5980cc, V12 petrol engine that can churn out 523bhp at 4900rpm in combination with a hammering torque of 829Nm at 1900rpm. It is paired with a sophisticated 7-speed automatic transmission gearbox that distributes the torque to the rear wheels and helps in delivering a power packed performance. It enables the vehicle to breach the 100 Kmph mark in just 3.2 seconds from a standstill. At the same time, it can attain a top speed in the range of 300 to 325 Kmph, which is rather incredible. 

Braking and Handling:

All its wheels have been fitted with a set of high performance disc brakes, which are further accompanied with superior brake calipers. This mechanism is assisted by anti lock braking system in combination with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist system. In addition to these, it also features an electronic stability program that regulates the individual wheel braking and improves its stability. On the other hand, it is blessed with an Airmatic suspension package with continuously variable damping control system, which enables the vehicle to take all the jerks caused on roads. The cabin is incorporated with an electric power steering system, which offers a precise response depending upon the speed levels.

Comfort Features:

The cabin is incorporated a THERMOTRONIC 3-zone automatic climate control unit including separate air vents for rear passengers. The data is presented on a high resolution 31.2cm color display for easy access. In combination with an appropriate mobile phone, it is possible to call up internet pages, while the car is stationary and to use Mercedes-Benz apps for POI searches, weather forecasts and Internet radio, while the car is in motion. It supports a DVD player, radio, 10 GB storage for audio and video files, 200 gigabytes hard drive, Bluetooth connectivity, COMAND controller and touch sensitive telephone keypad in center console. It also has communications module including a SIM card activated for three years for receiving "Live Traffic Information". It also has an active park guidance system with PARKTRONIC that features night view assist plus and a 360 degree camera. 

Safety Features:

The list includes ATTENTION assist system, night view assist plus, headlamp assist, intelligent LED light system, eight airbags and seat belts, which reduces the damage caused in case of accident. It has an advanced security and locking function including programmable key with remote control opening and closing of windows. Apart from these, it also has acceleration skid control, active blind spot assist, cross wind assist, tyre pressure loss warning system, under body protection, NECK-PRO crash responsive head restraints and so on.

Pros:

1. Seating arrangement is luxuriant.

2. Innovative comfort features are its main advantage.

Cons:

1. Initial cost of ownership is too high.

2. Lesser presence of authorized service stations is a disadvantage.