NEWS CAR TECH :BEST TECH CARS Mercedes-Benz S550's

It is amazing what a decade can do. 10 years ago, few cars had navigation, Bluetooth handsfree systems, or USB ports. Now, automakers are developing connected features, using data connections to bring in helpful information and entertainment, and driver assistance features for added safety and comfort. The following cars represent the most technically advanced available.

 



 

The good: Mammoth cabin space and smooth ride quality make the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550's cabin the place to be, whether in front or back. LED lights and big LCD dashboard panels keep the tech ahead of the pack. A new Steering Assist feature eases driving in heavy traffic.

The bad: App integration loads too slowly for general use. Virtual instrument gauges look a little flat, and it needs a graphic fuel gauge.

The bottom line: Mercedes-Benz takes a big step forward with its 2014 S550 flagship sedan, improving just about every feature in this model update, but app integration suffers from slow connection times.

As I drove the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 for this review, a number of nicknames came to mind. Because of its sheer comfort and luxury, I was thinking Chariot of the Gods. The utter blackness of the paint and subtle exterior lines suggested Death Star. While powering along a twisty mountain road, it also seemed the perfect car to pack full of villains and go after James Bond in his Aston Martin in, so Anonymous Baddie Car, maybe.

Given its size (over 17 feet), powerful engine, and loads of tech, it is certainly worthy of more than one nickname.

Mercedes-Benz's flagship S-Class luxury sedan has been facing stiff competition, from theAudi A8 to even the Hyundai Equus. The company obviously couldn't rest on its laurels, especially considering the much lower prices of a few other big, luxury rollers.