2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500

The S-Class is Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury sedan, the one that sets the standard for the big German limousines. It wafts down the road with a calm, effortless gait, and the steering is light and precise at any speed. The ride is pillowy soft, soaking up bumps that would jolt lesser cars, and the seats are among the best in the business. Inside, the cabin is a quiet, wood-trimmed sanctuary, with plenty of room for four adults and a generous trunk. The S 500 swaps the S 350's V6 for a silky 5.0L V8, and you get more standard equipment like real wood trim and power rear sunshades. The 5.0L V8 makes 302 horsepower and pairs with a smooth seven-speed automatic; it's quick enough to merge easily, yet returns 17 mpg combined.