Sitting in the driver seat, the relaxed ease offered by a traditional full-size sedan was complemented by the soft embrace of the Nappa leather seat. The dignified intimidation its luxurious design and hefty body projected on the exterior turned, upon stepping into the cabin, into a calm and cozy atmosphere.

The ‘S 450 4MATIC Standard Wheelbase’ is a ‘Night Edition’ model that Mercedes-Benz Korea released last September, limited to 100 units. While inheriting the S-Class signature of perfect classic-sedan proportions, plush ride comfort, and outstanding safety, it adds black-centered design elements and high-performance AMG specifications to combine sophistication with dynamism.

I started the engine and pressed the accelerator gently. Like an aircraft carrier cleaving the current, the body moves forward with weight yet smoothness. The acceleration is not explosive, but there is ample composure. The pairing of an inline six 3.0L gasoline engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission delivers 381 horsepower at maximum output and peak torque of 51 kgf·m.

The standard AIRMATIC suspension keeps its composure without restlessly shaking the body even on rough pavement. Augmented by a second-generation mild-hybrid system that assists the internal-combustion engine with up to 17 kW at the moment of acceleration, it achieves an even smoother driving feel. The subtly resonant engine sound also did not disturb the cabin quietness.

Abundant convenience features also raised comfort and satisfaction on the road, including the state-of-the-art Driving Assistance Package, a head-up display, a parking package with a 360-degree camera, ventilated and heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 3D surround sound system.

Although the vehicle size required some care when parking, the expanded steering angle kept the turning circle from feeling unnecessarily large, a clear strength in city driving.