What Mercedes has done here is crafted a luxury car for modern times where driving takes a back seat to feeling safe, secure and oh so spoiled. With a starting MSRP well into 6 figures, I’m fully aware that very few can afford this kind of sanctuary but for those of you who can peace and solitude are yours. The S-Class has seemingly forever been the benchmark luxury car; the centerpiece of Mercedes’ innovations and this all-new model continues those tenets in abundance. Its tech-forward cabin girds you with eye candy, the ride is luxury personified and safety, as always, is prioritized. The features are futuristic and extravagance is everywhere to be found. For example, this is a car that is able to suggest onboard fitness or wellness programs based upon vehicle and trip data, even factoring in your sleep quality and stress levels via your smartwatch. And 3D sound is so yesterday so the S-Class offers a 4D audio experience with bass resonators in the seats that can be individually controlled. The S-Class can be had in 3 lines, from least expensive to most there’s Luxury, AMG and Executive. This is the slightly more athletic-looking AMG Line in Emerald Green with 20” AMG wheels, all-season tires, the $6,700 audio system, the Warmth and Comfort Package, the 3D Technology Package, and the turning radius reducing rear axle steering for an as-tested price of $138,530.

There’s no denying it: the electric car revolution has just begun as more or more manufacturers make commitments to a carbon neutral future. And if you’re shopping for one you might want to pump the regen brakes for just a moment: here are 5 new EVs arriving in dealerships soon. Chevy Bolt EUV, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Volvo XC40 Recharge P8 AWD, Mercedes Benz EQS 580 4MATIC, & Audi RS e-tron GT.  So which is the right one for you?   

The Mercedes E450 is undoubtedly a rich, robust car with lots of goodies. It’s a very satisfying way to travel and there are all sorts of ways to upgrade and customize it taking it from $62,000 to $82,000. With the air suspension, rapid heating for the massaging, leather seats, increased cabin isolation via acoustic and heat absorbing glass, the air balance fragrance atomizer and a Burmester Surround Sound System, spending time in here is akin to a day at the spa. The hallmark characteristic of this E-Class are its beautifully, soft, sumptuous and dynamic drive that is just oozing with high-class refinement. The E450 has been designed to melt away stress and deliver a buttery smooth experience. It’s the strong/silent type with robust power and impeccable handling in the luxury sedan vein. So choose a massage program, up the fragrance level and heat up all the touch-points; the E450 embodies relaxing precision and is an absolute delight to drive.

2020 MERCEDES AMG CLA45 TEST DRIVE BY CAR CRITIC STEVE HAMMES. One of the most affordable AMG models has just been redesigned and it’s a live wire with tons of boost and a youthful spirit. This is the CLA 45
Here’s what you need to know. The CLA is all about big turbo punch and road feel. This is one of, if not the, stiffest rides you can buy regardless of drive mode. It’s going to shove you into your seat and take off like a rocket but in a very controlled way. But you’ve got to love the turbo life and not be offended by a nearly brittle ride and lots of tire noise. If you’re ok with that the CLA is going to deliver on fun. Whatever you do though don’t pass on these Recaro seats; they are perfect. 

2020 Mercedes-AMG S63 Cabriolet
When even the paint is a $7,500 option you know you’re driving something exclusive. Not only is this the most expensive Mercedes convertible it’s also the fastest. This car is custom order, packed with bespoke touches from Mercedes’ designo in-house design team. This light brown Nappa leather is so choice of course I’d spend nearly $13,000 on it. And what kind of cheapskate would pass on the Swarovski crystal headlamp jewels? Yes, it’s true; this car has over $43,000 in options but there’s not a one of them I wouldn’t want. Anyone care to loan me a quarter of a million? I’m good for it.
Zero-to-60 in 3.4 seconds in a convertible of this size is ridiculous. But maybe not as ridiculous as the price…this one checks in at over $227,000. And, oh yeah…rumor has it this car is going away soon so you’d better act fast if it’s on your dream car wish list.