Elite full-size Mercedes sedans continue in four RWD editions - the S430, S500, S600 and S55 AMG, with 4Matic AWD versions for S430 and S500. With fitted seats and touches of polished hardwoods plus fine leather decorating the cabin, these big sedans envelop riders in a staggering array of sophisticated controls and perks to make life in the fast lane not only comfortable but also secure.

There are many mechanical systems working latently for protection, including devices that stabilize forward movement and tire traction, smart brakes and adjustable suspensions, and up to eight air bags. All issues carry the Mercedes PreSafe tool that instantly rigs the vehicle for an unavoidable impact by activating electric seat belt tensioners and moving the passenger's front seat to optimum safety position.

For power, the S430 uses a 4.0-liter V8 at 275 hp, but the S500 goes further with the single-cam 5.0-liter V8 cranked to 302 hp. Both engines link to the 7G-tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. The S600 stocks the bi-turbo 6.0-liter V12 ripped to 493 hp, and AMG's supercharged V8 drops into the S55 AMG. The performance-geared AMG model also has redundant SpeedShift buttons mounted on the steering wheel, plus racing-derived brakes.

Mercedes builds mid-size SUV wagons that drive like fine sedans and feel as comfortable, but there's also ample cargo space in the back plus go-anywhere attributes of four-wheel-drive (4WD) wagons. Entry to the series comes from the ML350 with V6 power, while the ML500 stocks the 5.0-liter Mercedes V8. A full-time 4WD system on both models does not lock axles to maintain traction in slippery situations, but senses a slipping wheel electronically, then brakes the slippage and redirects power to wheels with better grip. New trim options include the M Class Special Edition, which puts a power dome on the hood with silver grille and aluminum roof rails. The cabin adds deluxe wood trim in birch burl or dark walnut.

Top-flight full-size coupes, with fluid lines on an exaggerated hood sweeping over the pillar-less roof to an elongated tail, crown the Mercedes line. Powertrains borrowed from S Class sedans apply to three versions - the CL500 and CL600 plus CL55 AMG. But there's more - the new CL65 AMG. It brings a hand-built AMG 6.0-liter 12-cylinder engine with twin turbos attached to push the power curve over 600 hp. Stopping power matches the muscle on CL65, as it scores an AMG-built compound braking system with two-piece rotor and hub assembly. (CONTINUED...)