The one thing that kept test drivers and reviewers from completely loving the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is its price.

It’s a seriously expensive car, and many people who are in the market for a super luxury car might be dissuaded from doling out the cash they’d need for this otherwise outstanding vehicle. In the S Class, what you get is one of the best that Mercedes Benz has to offer, the investment is worth it.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $92,550.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons (90 l)	MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 206.5 in.(524.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 124.6 in. (316.4 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm)	Width: 83.5 in. (212 cm)
Curb Weight: 4474 lbs (2029 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.8 in. (14.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L DOHC V6 Turbo-Diesel	Compression Ratio: 15.5: 1
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 3600 RPM
Torque: 455 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:S400 Hybrid	MSRP: $91,850; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:S550 4.7L V8	MSRP: $94,500; MPG: 15 city / 25 hwy
Option:S550 4Matic	MSRP: $97,500; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy
Option:S63 AMG 5.5L	MSRP: $139,300; MPG: 15 city / 23 hwy
Option:S600 5.5L V12	MSRP: $159,500; MPG: 12 city / 19 hwy
Option:S65 AMG 6.0L V12	MSRP: $210,900; MPG: 12 city / 19 hwy

Engine

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has several trims, including the diesel 350 Bluetec, which has an all wheel drive 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 engine that brings 240 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 455 lbs-ft of torque. The S350 gets 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The S550 has a 4.6 liter, twin turbo V8 engines that brings with it 429 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 516 lbs ft of torque.

Rear wheel drive comes standard on this car, but the driver has the option of all wheel drive. Both the S350 and the S550 have seven speed automatic transmission. The S550 gets 15 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, with the all wheel drive version getting a little less.

The S600 comes with a twin turbo V12 engine that brings an astonishing 510 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 612 lbs-ft of torque, but it only comes with rear wheel drive, and gets the least fuel economy at only 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. It also has a five speed automatic transmission.

Performance

Test drivers complained that though the transmission on the S350 and S550 is smooth, it is sometimes balky when it downshifts. The car was praised for its smooth and balanced performance, though reviewers were ambivalent about the car’s steering.

Some complained that the steering was vague or had no road feel. Test drivers liked the S-Class brakes well enough, but some thought the S350 Bluetec’s brakes lacked firm stopping power.

Exterior

Though test drivers found the looks of the car pleasing, they noted that the bodywork hasn’t changed since 2007. On the other hand, the look does have a timeless elegance about it.

Interior

Some considered the S-Class’s interior absolutely inviting as well as spacious. The material used combined with the delicate construction is superb. The panels are upholstered in quilted leather and trimmed with real wood. Even the base model is opulent.

Some of the features include Bluetooth, USB ports, a 15 speaker audio system and a hard drive based navigation system. The seats are cushy and endlessly adjustable thanks to the installation of pneumatic chambers inside. The seats also come with their own heating and ventilation and the driver can opt for front seat massage and rear seats that are also power adjustable as well as able to be cooled and heated. There’s also a nifty climate control that covers four zones.

However, the reviewers disliked the COMAND system, it required too much of a learning curve. The trunk has 16.4 cubic feet of space, which is bigger than some cars in its class and smaller than others. There’s also not much in the way of interior storage.

Safety

Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested the S-Class for safety, but some of its safety features include passenger and driver air bags, 4 wheel ABS and 4 wheel disc brakes, child safety locks, daytime running lights, night vision, an emergency release for the trunk and traction control.

Reliability

J.D. Power and Associates gives the S-Class a four out of five predicted reliability score. The car comes with a four year or 50,000 mile basic warranty. Roadside assistance can be had for the life of the warranty, or if the car is regularly maintained at a Mercedes dealership. There’s no powertrain warranty.

Pros

The interior is ultra-luxurious and capacious and the car’s performance is wonderfully nimble, while the ride is quiet. It’s an excellent ride for someone who wants a Mercedes full of bells and whistles.

Cons

The car looks pretty much the same as it did in 2007. Once again, people found the car just too pricey. The cabin electronics were also hard to learn.

For a car with a more up-to-date look, you may want to look into the BMW-7 Series (MSRP $71,000; 17 city / 25 hwy), the Porsche Panamera (MSRP $75,200; 18 city / 27 hwy) or the Audi A8 (MSRP $78,750; 18 city / 28 hwy). Less expensive luxury cars include the Lexus LS and the above mentioned 7-Series and the Panamera.

Other options include the CLS, also from MB (MSRP $94,900; 16 city / 25 hwy), providing more horsepower and an equally plush interior; not to mention the equally menacing BMW M5 (MSRP $89,900; NA city / NA hwy) and the hybrid from Lexus, the LS 600h (MSRP $112,750; 19 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“Since all S-Class sedans sold in the U.S. are long-wheelbase cars, they’re all essentially alike, at least in terms of interior and cargo space.”Car Connection

“Considering its size and heft, the S-Class is surprisingly poised and sporty, with an uncanny ability to maintain composure in bumpy turns. The steering is perfectly weighted, and the brakes easily modulated.”Consumer Guide

“The S-Class is quick, quiet, luxurious, and a delight to drive. A more powerful and fuel efficient 4.6-liter V8 arrived for 2012. The cushy ride is extremely comfortable and the best we’ve tested, yet handling, steering, and ride control are also first class.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“When driving the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, one experiences two very distinct personalities. On the one hand, the S-Class is a surprisingly agile automobile, contradicting its enormous size with a highly…”KBB

“Wide variety of impressive engines; world-class craftsmanship; composed ride and handling; a showcase of convenience and safety technology; whisper quiet…Interior features can be overwhelming, with occasionally unintuitive controls.”Edmunds

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses concept car is a luxury model that captures the traditional rich, sumptuous sense of indulgence of a Rolls-Royce and catapults it to an entirely new level.

The sense of sight, smell, touch, aroma and sound are all ignited when you open the doors to the new Six Sense concept car. The sixth sense is the sense of wonder, surprise and delight as you take in the soft, lavish use of leather, the tiniest veneer details and a number of bespoke enhancements that make the Six Senses model a true beauty to behold.

Sound

For over 100 years, the extraordinarily relaxing nature of silence has been a large part of the Rolls-Royce experience. However, the 21st century Rolls-Royce vehicles also offer some of the most advanced sound systems and the perfect auditorium to listen to music.

The concept sound system in the Six Senses model features an upgraded amplifier and exciter speakers in each of the leather head linings to raise the sound closer to passenger’s ears.

Sight

The pearlescent white finish of the Ghost Six Senses concept car, complimented by newly forged alloy wheels is instantly aesthetically pleasing.

The deeply rich interior detailing, including deep Walnut Burr veneer with brown oak banding, is just one of the reasons why the interior of the Six Sense’s concept is just as impressive as the exterior.

Touch

Inside the Ghost Six Sense’s car, you’ll find a variety of tactile materials that will enhance your journey in the new Rolls-Royce. From sumptuous leathers that include natural grain, fine veneers, cool chrome handles and thick lambs wool rugs and linings, this Rolls-Royce is truly a tactile and luxurious way to travel.

Aroma

There are several scents, created via the use of specially selected interior materials that have come to be associated with the luxury of a Rolls-Royce. In the Six Senses model, the rich new leather aroma is complimented by hints of woody spices found in the walnut veneer.

When it comes to luxury midsized SUVs, people liked the 2012 Infiniti FX for its sportscar-like energy, but when it came to its performance as a good, reliable family SUV, it came up short.

The reason is the way it handles its powerful engine and it just doesn’t have a lot of room for people and luggage, in addition to its inability to handle rough pavement. The FX offers a variety of features that you have come to expect from Infiniti.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $43,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons (90 l)	MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.3 in. (485.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.6 in. (288.5 cm)
Height: 66.1 in. (167.8 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4162 lbs (1888 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.4 in. (18.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 24.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve V6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 303 HP	Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs) AWD	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:FX AWD	MSRP: $45,150; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy
Option:FX50 5.0L V8 AWD	MSRP: $59,800; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

Engine

The Infiniti FX has two trims. The FX35’s V6 engine gives you 303 horsepower as well as a seven speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters. The FX50’s V8 engine delivers 390 horsepower and is matched to a seven speed automatic transmission.

The FX50 comes with standard all wheel drive while the FX35 offers the option of all wheel drive or rear wheel drive. The rear wheel drive FX35 has the best fuel economy, while the all wheel drive FX35 and the FX50 get less.

Performance

The FX gets high marks for its sheer power, both in the V6 and the V8 engines. Some found the V8 a little too potent for their taste. But most were impressed that this SUV handled so much like a sports car.

The drawback was this made the drive rugged unless you are driving on a smooth road. Since the streets that lead from home to school to supermarket to playing field might not always be as ‘bump-free’, this can cause difficulty for some drivers.

Exterior

The FX’s exterior is said to be sexy, and maybe even a little too sexy. It calls envious attention to itself, though the 2012 model is more demure than previous models.

Interior

The Infiniti FX’s interior is what folks pay a lot of money for. It is luxurious and has many high tech features. Among the attractions that come standard is the leather upholstery, heated front seats, and rear seats that recline.

The front seats are ventilated in the FX50 and this feature is optional on the FX35. The seats are not only climate controlled, but are comfortable and give good support, though the rear sets are cramped.

The FX’s features are second to none, according to reviewers. Among the goodies you can enjoy are: automatic temperature control, a supreme Bose audio system, satellite radio, a rearview camera, speed sensitive wipers for the front windshield, and a navigation system, which is standard on the FX50. Some thought the features were too much of a good thing and it could be a challenge to learn how to operate them.

The big drawback was the FX’s cargo space, which is at 24.8 cubic feet when all the seats were up and 62 cubic feet when the rear seats were down. Storage for small items was also no more than average.

Safety

The safety ratings on the 2012 FX are fairly good, though not all safety tests were performed on the SUV. One highway safety institute didn’t rate for side impact tests or roof strength.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the Infiniti FX a three and a half out of five rating for reliability, which means it’s better than average. It comes with a four year or 60,000 mile basic warranty, a six year or 70,000 mile powertrain warranty and a seven year warranty for rust perforation.

Pros

Reviewers loved the Infiniti’s powerful engine, tight handling and its state of the art features.

Cons

The drive is rough unless the SUV is driven on well-paved roads. There just isn’t enough interior space for a family and their belongings.

Comparisons

The FX can be compared to the Lincoln MKT (MSRP $44,300; 17 city / 24 hwy) and the Volvo XC90 (MSRP $41,600; 16 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Infiniti FX35 and FX50 look like they sacrifice some practicality in the name of a sexy design and scorching performance—and that’s exactly the case.”Car Connection

“FX is nimble and exhibits excellent handling response with minimal body lean, particularly the sporty FX50. It finds itself at home on even the curviest of roads.”Consumer Guide

“The FX stands out with bold styling, an eager powertrain, and responsive handling.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you enjoy combining maximum performance – especially when equipped with Infiniti’s 5.0-liter V8 – with a modicum of utility, the FX Infiniti delivers fully on that promise, and does so at a price point below its Euro competition.”KBB

“Sporty performance; luxurious interior; available technology- and safety-oriented gadgets; distinctive style…Modest rear-passenger and cargo space; pricey and restrictive options packages; firm ride.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is a large luxury vehicle that combines performance, luxury and safety into one classy 2-door package.

The E-Class Coupe is available in two trim levels, the E350 and the E550.

This coupe is constructed with a pillar-set profile, wind taming design, and a winning performance.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $51,120.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gallons (65 l)	MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 185 in. (469.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Height: 54.8 in. (139.1 cm)	Width: 79.3 in. (201.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3619 lbs (1642 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L DOHC V6	Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1
Horsepower: 302 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:E550 4.6L Bi-Turbo V8

MSRP: $57,960; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy

Engine & Performance

The E-Class Coupe is fitted with a new powertrain that increases its efficiency and power. The E350 uses a 3.5L V6 powertrain that produces 302 hp and 273 lbs-ft of torque. This returns a fuel economy estimate of 19 mpg in city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The E550 on the other hand, uses a twin-turbo 4.6L V8 engine that generates 402 horsepower and 443 lbs-ft of torque. This trim nets a fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on a highway. These engines are connected with a 7-speed automatic gearbox that comes with steering wheel-mounted paddles for manual control.

An optional 4Matic AWD system is also available but reduces the E350’s fuel economy to 19/27 although it makes it a capable winter performer. The 2012 E-Class Coupe also offers great driving dynamics, with direct steering and strong brakes. It strikes a good balance between agile handling and comfortable ride quality.

Exterior

The look has been designed in a most appealing way for customers looking for a 2-door luxury car. The Coupe comes with fully retractable side windows, not interrupted by framework that allows you to see the horizon unobstructed. The power-operated Panorama roof is another key feature worth distinguishing the E-Class Coupe from other models.

This roof features a huge area of heat-reflecting tinted glass, providing all four occupants with a nice view of the sky. Every E-Class Coupe is fitted with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, with the E550 getting AMG twin 5-spoke wheels, silver-painted calipers and perforated front brake discs. LED illumination, created by the wraparound LED tail lamps at the rear flanks and the LED daytime running lamps at the front air dam, will definitely attract a lot of attention.

Interior

The E Class coupe combines old school luxury and high-tech features. It emphasizes soft-touch surfaces and leather, resulting in an exquisitely crafted cabin for the passengers. The Coupe comes with COMAND electronic interface that hosts a large display monitor, dash-mounted buttons and a control knob. Leather-appointed front and rear seats are standard on both trims, with the front seats being 14-way power adjustable.

This car also comes with ample cargo space in comparison to other coupes in its class. It has a trunk space of 13.3 cubic feet, but with the rear seats featuring a 60/40 split, the capacity can be increased. Other features include: integrated garage door opener, power windows with express up and down, dual zone automatic control4-way tilt/telescoping steering column, and interior ambient lighting.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 E-Class Coupe comes with many safety features than most of rivals. Standard safety features include: stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, front pelvic airbags, front side airbags attention assist, Mercedes’ mbrace emergency telematics, driver knee airbag and Presafe package that prepares this car for an imminent collision.

In addition, a lane tracking package has been incorporated adding lane departure warning and blind spot-warning systems. The Coupe is covered with a 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty, as well as roadside assistance during that period.

Pros

• Good performance
• Potent engines
• Superb ride and handling balance
• Elegant styling
• Innovative safety tech

Cons

• High price
• Less sporty than some competitors

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe offers more than expected from a 2-door luxury car. It has been gracefully designed, comes with a comfort oriented interior, performs well and its many safety features makes it a 2-door car of choice to many people.

An international collection of characters crowd the coupe segment the E class finds itself in, worth mentioning are the Audi S5 (MSRP $50,900; 17 city / 26 hwy), the Chevrolet Corvette (MSRP $49,600; 16 city / 26 hwy), and Infiniti G IPL (MSRP $50,500; 17 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
82 out of 100

What others say:

“Both the V-6 and V-8 gasoline engines are available in the Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible, while the Wagon only offers the 3.5-liter V-6, but adds standard 4Matic all-wheel drive.”Car Connection

“The two-door Coupe’s lack of a B-pillar gives it a smooth aesthetic and an air of class.”KBB

“Superb ride and handling balance; potent engines; meticulously constructed; extensive safety features; spacious sedan interior; innovative convertible features.”Edmunds

Reviewers and test drivers liked the 2012 Lincoln MKZ and its generous interior and stylish exterior.

It is a car for people who are looking for a midsized luxury car that is comfortable, quiet, subtle, exciting, and has sufficient seating. Some were disappointed with this upscale midsized car, they felt it lacking in performance and overall refinement.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $34,755.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66 l)	MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.8 in. (482 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.4 in. (272.8 cm)
Height: 56.9 in. (144.5 cm)	Width: 72.2 in. (183.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3598 lbs (1632 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L Duratec V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 263 HP	Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 249 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:MKZ AWD	MSRP: $36,645; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:MKZ Hybrid	MSRP: $34,755; MPG: 41 city / 36 hwy

Engine

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ has a 3.5 liter, V6 engine that delivers 263 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 249 lbs-ft or torque. It also comes with a six speed automatic transmission, with a standard manual shift mode.

This makes the car powerful enough for quotidian tasks, but test drivers agree that it’s not a performance car. The car’s front wheel drive version will deliver 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, with the all wheel drive model getting a little less.

Performance

People found the MKZ’s performance competent, but not as thrilling as a luxury car’s performance should be. However, it’s quiet, smooth and comfortable. A Sport Appearance Package can make the driving more fun, but it also makes the ride less smooth. The steering is accurate and the car takes curves well.

Exterior

The MKZ’s exterior is pleasing, and had especially good things to say about the bold looks of the grill.

Interior

Reviewers appreciated the car’s roominess. The seats are spacious and upholstered in buttery leather, and the rear seats offer ample leg and head room for even tall grown-ups. Reviewers also loved the sumptuous features and the variety of standard equipment.

The MKZ has separate controls for its features, which make them much easier to learn to use and to operate. The MKZ’s SYNC system also lets drivers use voice command. The car has a sophisticated THX sound system, though some reviewers were ambivalent about it. Some test drivers also found some of the trim not up to standard for a luxury car. The 2012 MKZ excels in the trunk space, which offers an impressive 16.5 cubic feet.

Safety

The Lincoln MKZ has excellent safety ratings and garnered a four out of five star overall rating from the federal government. It received three out of five stars for the front crash test and four out of five stars for the side and rollover tests. It received a “good” in all tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and so was named a Top Safety Pick.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the MKZ an exceptional four and a half out of five reliability score. The car arrives with a four year or 50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. The powertrain warranty lasts for six years or 70,000 miles. Roadside assistance spans the same time as the powertrain warranty.

Pros

Reviewers liked the MKZ’s roominess, including the large trunk. They also admired its easy to use features, and all wheel drive.

Cons

The MKZ simply doesn’t perform as well as other cars in its class and it’s much too similar to the Ford Fusion, which costs much less.

Lincoln finds itself in the middle of a crowded field of luxury sedans that include the Lexus ES (MSRP $36,725; 19 city / 28 hwy), Infiniti G (MSRP $36,900; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the Cadillac CTS (MSRP $42,290; 18 city / 27 hwy) sport sedan.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Power delivery is smooth and seamless, but the 2012 Lincoln MKZ lacks true driving excitement.”Car Connection

“Competent overall, with fairly accurate steering and moderate body lean. Hybrid models are heavier and feel that way on the road, but they’re never unwieldy. AWD quells most torque steer and furnishes secure all-weather traction. Brake-pedal feel is just OK on the Base and Hybrid, but both deliver good stopping control.”Consumer Guide

“The MKZ rides well and has strong acceleration. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions are offered, and a gas-electric hybrid is available.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“There has been little more than tweaking for the 2012 model of the Lincoln MKZ, a reliable indicator that an all-new MKZ sedan is just over the horizon. In the interim, numerous premium features have been made standard, such as heated and cooled seats.”KBB

“Excellent infotainment features; comfortable seats and driving position; high fuel economy from Hybrid version; responsive steering… Non-premium feel; not enough differentiation from Ford Fusion; rough ride with sport suspension.”Edmunds