Representing the first considerable facelift for the series in several years, the 2018 Mercedes S-Class has been updated in chassis and engine design, and has been given a technological and comfort reboot, too.

Mercedes revealed the new S-Class at the Shanghai Auto Show, and highlighted the tech and engine revisions. As far as technological updates are concerned, the revisions reflect a good deal of work at the R&D blackboard, and are headlined with Mercedes’ ‘Intelligent Drive’ driver assist, including stop, traffic sign, adaptive cruise, lane change, and steering assistance. A bevy of new sensors and cameras help the S-Class negotiate road and traffic, and an alert sounds if established speed limits are exceeded; this last, of course, is very manageable.

Which is a good thing, because the new engines are more efficient, and quite powerful: the S450 models receive a 3.0L V6 twin-turbo, for 362 horsepower, and the S560 4.0L a V8 good for 463; an optional hand-tuned AMG engine is available for the S65, bringing available power up to 603 horsepower. The S550 is no more.

The series gets a sleek new shape and, as far as creature comforts, the series won’t disappoint fans of the brand: a new infotainment system, adjustable LED lighting in a 64-color spectrum of options, and swipeable touch-control buttons on the steering wheel start things off. Mercedes’ ‘Energizing’ comfort system, which incorporates climate control, seat massage, ambient, lighting, music, and cabin fragrance is a good way to finish—a spa experience whilst you drive home from a stressful day at work.

The list of features and options runs very long and is likely to satisfy even the most demanding drivers. For instance, phones can be charged wirelessly in the center console. How thoughtful.