2023 Mercedes-Benz s-class
Horsepower: V6 429/ V8 496
Transmission: 9 speed, Automatic w/OD
Engine capacity: 3.0L I-6 429 HP 384.0 ft. lbs
Torque: 384 @ 1,800 rpm
The Mercedes-Benz S-class retains its dominance by serving as the standard by which all other full-size luxury sedans are measured. The S-abundance classes of high-end materials, plush seating and advanced technology cater to the tastes of its wealthy customers. The S500 and S580 are available variants, with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive and each with a unique powerplant. A smooth 429-hp turbocharged straight-six powers the S500, while a refined 496-hp V-8 powers the S580. The Mercedes-Maybach S-class super-luxury model, which was previously reviewed, offers an utterly decadent experience. Although the thick leather thrones in the front and back rows make it clear that the S-class prioritizes comfort and swanks, its standard air suspension completes the experience by turning the road into velvet. Additionally, the optional E-Active Body Control will even lean the vehicle into corners to prevent you from spilling any of your champagne cocktail, which you are sipping while relaxing in the power-adjustable, heated massage function-equipped back seats, which are an option. The S-class is excellent at bringing the good life to life.
BMW The iX
Horsepower: 516
Torque: 765 Nm
Battery Capacity: 71kWh
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h, 4.6 sec
The 2023 iX SUV offers comparable space and functionality to the brand’s well-liked X5 but, with cutting-edge flair, is a preview of BMW’s electrified future. With 516 horsepower in the xDrive50 and a whopping 610 horsepower in the M60, two electric motors provide all-wheel drive and more than enough power, and a sizable battery pack provides enough energy for an estimated driving range of more than 300 miles per charge. The luxurious interior of the iX is well-appointed and has a stylish, futuristic design. A large digital dashboard shows what BMW’s iDrive infotainment system will look like in the future and is operated by a simple, see-through rotary knob on the centre console. The iX should fare well against newcomers like the Fisker Ocean and the Rivian R1S and established all-electric rivals like the Audi e-Tron and the Tesla Model X.
2022 Porsche Panamera
Horsepower: 325 hp @ 5,400 rpm
Torque: 331 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automated manual
Although there is no restriction against the daily use of a Porsche sports car, the 911 and 718 two-door models are only some of the most valuable vehicles. Fortunately, Porsche’s fun-to-drive philosophy combines a four-door body and a luxurious interior in the 2022 Panamera sedan to produce a more well-rounded solution for individuals requiring space for children and freight. Most models have a turbocharged V-6, but there are also models with a 473-hp twin-turbo V-8 and a plug-in hybrid with up to 552 horsepower. Like the brand’s sports cars, the Panamera handles with enthusiasm and vigour, and its fastback roofline gives it a sportier appearance than similarly priced sports sedans like the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-AMG E63. If you need even more practicality, Porsche will sell you a Panamera Sport Turismo station wagon, or if you want more power, there’s also the Panamera Turbo.
2023 Audi RS7 Sportback performance
Horsepower: 605
Torque: 800 Nm @ 2050-4500 RPM
Transmission: Automatic
Acceleration (0-100 kmph): 3.6 seconds
The Audi RS7 is a largemouth, high-performance hatchback sedan with bulging fenders and a roomy interior packed with the amenities and cutting-edge technology you’d expect in a super-sedan. A 591-hp provides the thrills twin-turbo V-8 coupled to an eight-speed automated transmission with standard all-wheel drive. Despite weighing close to 5000 pounds, the RS7 feels surprisingly agile for its size due to its rear-wheel steering system and excellent suspension. There’s always the 444-hp S7, which we assess separately if this much power is too much. The RS7 is supremely comfortable and extra-practical, thanks to its hatchback body style. But while the RS7’s swiftness puts it in league with mega-sedans like the BMW M5 Competition and Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, the experience behind the wheel is less visceral than in the big Bimmer or killer Caddy.
