THE new Mercedes S-class, on sale on March 4, features improved specification and lower prices than its predecessor on more than half the model range. Prices will start at £43,640 for the S280, £1,000 more than the outgoing model, but featuring a host of specification enhancements as standard.

These will include alloy wheels, adaptive damping, two window and two rear airbags, electrically-adjustable steering column, multi-function steering wheel, heated screen wash system and a lumbar support in the two front seats. The S320 will cost £49,140, £800 cheaper than its predecessor, while the S430 hits the road at £57,140, £3,400 less than the old S420, but gains infrared protected glass and memories for front seats, door mirrors and steering column.

The range-topping S500 at £69,040 is £900 cheaper than the old model but gains Xenon headlamps. The price competitiveness continues into the long wheelbase versions destined for chauffeur drive use, which incur a £5,000 supplement to cover the cost of the extended wheelbase, heated rear seats, Parktronic parking distance sensor, electric rear roller blind, and a passenger seat which is electrically adjustable from behind. Prices are S320L £54,140 (£52,340), S430L £57,140 (S420 £62,840), and S500L £74,040 (£74,040).