Encapsulated in luxury

MANILA, Philippines - While, I’ve already had the pleasure of test driving current models of the Mercedes Benz B and C Class, my dear editor decided it was time I wrote about the Grand Daddy of all Mercs – the S Class. I know, I know – tough break.

I anticipated a driving and riding experience that would be like spending time with a wealthy, distant uncle. You know the type. A man with a presence so stately it makes people stop and stare. You’re thrilled to be around him yet it’s all too much to handle so you’re somewhat relieved when he leaves. Well, as grand and impressive as I found the S Class to be, I was not so happy to see it go after our brief weekend together.

The S Class might seem like an aspirational cliché. In truth it is anything but. Perhaps what I appreciated most about it was something not immediately perceivable – its amazingly quiet interior. This writer doesn’t talk horse power or engine displacement but I do know this car has a serious force under the hood and you can’t hear a decibel of it.

Driving the car makes you think, Why can’t all vehicles handle like this? The ride is exceptionally smooth (or should I say, typically Benz?) It is extremely responsive to braking and acceleration but in a manner so subtle, you would barely notice changes in speed or uneven roads.

The interiors are swathed in buttery leather. The dashboard is leather with perfectly elegant stitching – a nod to precise German craftsmanship. And to sit in the ergonomically designed seats! It’s all about comfort and personalization. Just about every angle of your seat is adjustable (except if you’re in the middle rear). You can even electronically adjust the front seat from the rear bench. There’s no need for tint thanks to the electronically controlled roller blinds in the rear windows and windshield. Didn’t close your door properly? The S Class has a door closing aid function which shuts the door completely even before you get the chance to reopen and slam it.

In-cabin entertainment is seamlessly managed by the COMAND controller, integrated into the center console. If the long hours spent in EDSA gridlock are causing discomfort to your back, the S Class is happy to pamper you with built in back massagers in its seats. Suddenly traffic is a guilty pleasure.

Have trouble parking? The PARKTRONIC parking guidance features and reversing (super wide angle!) camera will sort you out. There’s so much more one could go on about especially the vehicle’s safety features. The S Class has the usual front airbags but passengers in the back are also protected by window and side bags. There is an Attention Assist function which warns the driver if it detects drowsiness! You get the idea, which is probably leading to the question on price. Surely there is a pretty penny to be paid.

Indeed there is, but now Benz lovers and aspirants have a chance at taking this baby home for free. Thanks to EastWest Bank’s Dream Big Win Big Raffle Promo. All you need to do is bank with them. Clients earn raffle points according to the amounts involved in various transactions like debit or credit card use, increasing month-to-date average daily balance, having an auto, personal or mortgage loan. Full details of the mechanics are on www.eastwestbanker.com. Who wouldn’t want a shot a being encapsulated in luxury?