I was asked to test drive the S500 over the weekend. I picked the beautiful black vehicle up from their showroom in Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon and took a casual drive around the island to get a feel for it. Initially it was a little weird getting used to the subtle differences compared to other sedans. The park-brakeand gear lever are not located in what some refer to as “standard” places, and the wiper controls share the same lever as the indicators. The S500 is a bit wider and longer than the vehicles I am accustomed to driving, which meant I had to be cognisant of this when turning a tight corner. Driving through the suburbs of Abu Dhabi was comfortable quite enjoyable, the vehicle was smooth and very quiet.

On Friday we took a casual drive through the city center to Al Maryah Island for a meal and a movie. This was a wonderful drive and I got to test out the cruise control functions. This is where the vehicle comes into its own, with lane and distance control. With the vehicle keeping you in the lane, even around corners and maintaining a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead, it felt like the S500 was in total control.

On Saturday we took a drive to Al Ain to visit Jebel Hafeet. Highway driving in the S500 is such a pleasure with cruise control. The “head-up display” certainly helps you keep your eyes focused on the road ahead while maintaining awareness of your speed and ensuring you are following the map displayed. The S500 has more than enough power to get you going on the highway and is extremely quiet compared to other sedans. We drove for about three hundred kilometers, only stopping for a quick meal and a photo opportunity on Jebel Hafeet. 

In conclusion, although the S500 is elegant, wonderful to drive and has all the bells and whistles, she is a little too big for my taste. I would like to thank Mercedes Benz Abu Dhabi for graciously offering me the test drive.

Reviewed by ~ Low Rider