Mercedes-Benz S320L takes on the BMW 740Li and Lexus LS350

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  1 / 23 Which of these luxurious 6-cylinder limos best caters to the towkay who loves to drive and be driven?

  Limousines of yesteryear only needed to be excellent at pampering the owner while he or she was being chauffeured.

  But for today’s captains of industry who also enjoy being the captain of their luxurious land barge whenever their crewman (the chauffeur) is on shore leave, the limo also needs to be nice to drive.

  The all-new Lexus LS350 is up against very serious competition in this story, for both the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class were Best in Class winners in previous ST-Torque awards. So for this contest, the LS350 has brought a bolder design, enhanced driveability and advanced safety features to appeal to towkays.

  Like the Lexus LS350, the Mercedes-Benz S320L is also an “entry-level” limousine. But with a facelifted exterior and upgraded cabin that now includes wireless charging and paddle shifters (gasp), you’d be hard-pressed to call it a “base” model.

  Taking on the S320L and LS350 is the BMW 740Li. Unlike its rivals, this Bimmer is actually the mid-tier variant, equipped with a long list of standard features. It is also expected to be more fun to drive.

  Can the Lexus LS outshine its two entrenched rivals? Or will one of these German stalwarts emerge victorious? Sit back and relax, read on and find out.

  Read more
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  2 / 23 Mercedes-Benz S320L's turbocharged 3-litre V6.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L’s turbocharged 3-litre V6 engine with 272hp and 400Nm has the fewest ponies in this company, but operates in the creamiest and quietest manner.

  Read more
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  3 / 23 Mercedes-Benz S320L's column-mounted gearshift lever.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L’s 9-speed automatic is relatively seamless, and the managing director behind its wheel will love the convenience of the column-mounted shifter.

  Read more
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  4 / 23 The Mercedes-Benz S320L demonstrated its cossetting abilities.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L has the quietest and gentlest ride, which towkays will appreciate after a long day at the office. But this saloon is also the biggest here, making it the least manoeuvrable in places such as carparks and narrow city streets.

  Read more
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  5 / 23 BMW 740Li's turbocharged 3-litre inline-6 motor.

  BMW 740Li’s turbocharged 3-litre inline-6 with 326hp and 450Nm is the most muscular motor, yet it is also the most efficient. Impressive.

  Read more
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  6 / 23 BMW 740Li's gearshift lever looks like it belongs in a fighter jet.

  BMW 740Li’s 8-speed automatic is the smoothest and most responsive gearbox. Enthusiastic towkays might also enjoy using the gearshift lever’s manual override, as the -/+ points are in the optimum positions.

  Read more
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  7 / 23 The BMW 740Li's rear-wheel-steering system makes it feel like a much smaller saloon.

  The BMW 740Li strikes the best balance between ride comfort and handling capability. It’s also the most agile limo, thanks in large part to its standard rear-wheel-steering system.

  Read more
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  8 / 23 Lexus LS350 has a naturally aspirated 3.5-ltire V6 that has a rorty soundtrack.

  Lexus LS350’s naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 with 310hp and 380Nm is the keenest engine in the group, and its soundtrack is surprisingly the sportiest, too.

  The Lexus LS350’s 10-speed automatic has the most number of forward ratios, but its tendency to frequently “hunt” at low speeds makes it the least seamless transmission in this group.

  Read more
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  9 / 23 The Lexus LS350's handling could have been even sharper, had it not been for its tyres.

  Lexus LS350 is nimbler than expected, although passengers seated in the rear may not like the firm ride. The Lexus LS350’s handling would have been sharper if the suspension wasn’t using comfort-biased tyres.

  Read more
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  10 / 23 Mercedes-Benz S320L's cabin looks the swankiest.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L’s cockpit is the group’s most sophisticated and most comfortable. It features dual 12.3-inch displays that dominate the dashboard, and armchair-like seats that support well-fed bodies. The “missing” sunroof, however, reduces the classiness of this otherwise atas cabin.

  Read more
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  11 / 23 The Mercedes-Benz S320L's instrument panel is very attractive.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L’s instrument panel has the largest real estate and the sharpest graphics. Its menu management is also the easiest, thanks to the operator-friendly touchpads integrated into the steering wheel.

  Read more
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  12 / 23 The Mercedes-Benz S320L's cushy backseat.

  Passengers in the Mercedes-Benz S320L are likely to fall asleep as the bench is the cushiest and the roomiest, with headrests that are even softer than the BMW 740Li’s. The three-position seat memory settings are a welcome touch, too.

  Read more
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  13 / 23 BMW 740Li's cockpit is clearly aimed at drivers.

  BMW 740Li’s cockpit is the group’s most driver-oriented as its dashboard is angled towards the driver. Bosses will love the excellent infotainment system, which comes with a “personal assistant” in the form of an on-call concierge service that’s complimentary for the first three years of BMW 7 Series ownership.

  Read more
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  14 / 23 The BMW 740Li's dials.

  BMW 740Li dials’ magnifier function is useful for businessmen who squint when reading P&L statements, while the head-up display is prettier than the Lexus LS350’s. Like the Lexus, the BMW 740Li’s display themes are tied to the chosen drive modes.

  Read more
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  15 / 23 The BMW 740Li's high-tech backseat.

  Tai-tais will love being chauffeured in the BMW 740Li as the mood lights on the B-pillars make it easier for them to check their hairdos and retouch their makeup on the go. Like the Lexus LS350, the BMW 740Li backseat’s higher hip point makes ingress/egress less tricky.

  Read more
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  16 / 23 Lexus LS350's cockpit is solid and refined.

  Lexus LS350 cockpit’s levels of luxury and solidity are the highest here. It’s also the only space with ventilated seats. But the infotainment system has annoyingly clumsy controls.

  Read more
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  17 / 23 Lexus LS350's instrument cluster.

  Lexus LS350’s instrument cluster is the least attractive and also the hardest to read at a glance. With all the pertinent information squeezed into a relatively small area, some towkays might find it confusing, too.

  Read more
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  18 / 23 Lexus LS350's backseat.

  Lexus LS350’s backseat is the least spacious, but it’s literally the coolest thanks to an extra pair of ceiling-mounted air-con vents and a chilled box for drinks. The centre armrest’s touchscreen is nifty, but it has fewer controls than the BMW 740Li’s detachable tablet.

  Read more
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  19 / 23 The Lexus LS350's boot.

  Lexus LS350’s 440-litre boot is the least ideal for lugging boxes, as it has the lowest internal height. But golf-loving directors will appreciate the numerous straps, which can help secure golf bags and golf umbrellas.

  Read more
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  20 / 23 Mercedes-Benz S320L's boot.

  Mercedes-Benz S320L’s 530-litre cargo hold is the most convenient in the dark, as it has a pair of LED lights inside the trunk and on the underside of the boot lid for illumination. It’s also the only one with a 12-volt power outlet for roadside emergencies.

  Read more
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  21 / 23 BMW 740Li's boot.

  BMW 740Li’s 515-litre cargo volume is the least useful, with substantial wheel-arch intrusion and no elastic straps for securing loose items. Underfloor storage, which is available in the Mercedes-Benz S320L, would have made the BMW 740Li a better cargo-hauler.

  Read more
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  22 / 23

  The Lexus LS has totally shed its conservative image. Its aggressive styling may put off traditional clientele, but its tremendous presence means it’ll always be visible in a company carpark.

  We reckon that the LS350 will also be highly visible in many rear view mirrors given its newfound driveability. It is more nimble than ever, and its naturally aspirated powertrain, complete with a rorty soundtrack, encourages more spirited driving, too.

  The LS350 is so impressive that we forgive its comparatively limited backseat space and rather small boot. But we couldn’t overlook the car’s instrument cluster (too compact) and Remote Touch Interface (too clumsy). But if you’re a modern CEO who wants a limo that reflects your non-conformist personality, look no further than the latest LS.

  The Mercedes-Benz S320L is the archetypal towkay’s choice of car and might thus be seen as boring. But it’s hard to argue against the saloon’s strong points that include a super-cushy ride, a dazzling dashboard and a roomy backseat.

  Our biggest complaint about the S320L is its lack of verve. Because it’s the least powerful of the three saloons, the boss rushing to his board meeting might arrive late. But he’ll definitely be cossetted during the journey and arrive with his feathers unruffled.

  The 6-cylinder limo that best caters to towkays who love to drive is the BMW 740Li. It has the nippiest performance and nicest handling, further enhanced by the rear-wheel-steering. Moreover, the 7’s infotainment system is the most pleasing to use, and the vehicle has so many standard features that we’d run out of page space trying to list them all.

  But bean counters, take note – the 740Li is the costliest limousine in this company. Its current price of $470,888 is $35k dearer than the LS350 and a whopping $60k more than the S320L.

  The towkay who also wants to feel like a boss whenever he’s behind the wheel, however, might feel that the $470k 740Li is money well spent.

  ---

  BMW 740Le review

  Lexus LS350 is one sporty and luxurious limousine

  Facelifted Mercedes-Benz S320L is a satin sedan

  Read more
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  23 / 23

  (Left to right) Mercedes-Benz S320L’s key has the fewest functions, but the big buttons are the most prestigious to press. The BMW 740Li’s device is the most advanced and is utilised for the Remote Parking function. Lexus LS350’s curvy fob has the most elegant look and feel.

  Read more

Which of these luxurious 6-cylinder limos best caters to the towkay who loves to drive and be driven? Limousines of yesteryear only needed to be excellent at pampering the owner while he or she was being chauffeured. But for today’s captains of industry who also enjoy being the captain of their luxurious land barge whenever their crewman (the chauffeur) is on shore leave, the limo also needs to be nice to drive. The all-new Lexus LS350 is up against very serious competition in this story, for both the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class were Best in Class winners in previous ST-Torque awards. So for this contest, the LS350 has brought a bolder design, enhanced driveability and advanced safety features to appeal to towkays. Like the Lexus LS350, the Mercedes-Benz S320L is also an “entry-level” limousine. But with a facelifted exterior and upgraded cabin that now includes wireless charging and paddle shifters (gasp), you’d be hard-pressed to call it a “base” model. Taking on the S320L and LS350 is the BMW 740Li. Unlike its rivals, this Bimmer is actually the mid-tier variant, equipped with a long list of standard features. It is also expected to be more fun to drive. Can the Lexus LS outshine its two entrenched rivals? Or will one of these German stalwarts emerge victorious? Sit back and relax, read on and find out. Mercedes-Benz S320L's turbocharged 3-litre V6. Mercedes-Benz S320L’s turbocharged 3-litre V6 engine with 272hp and 400Nm has the fewest ponies in this company, but operates in the creamiest and quietest manner. Mercedes-Benz S320L's column-mounted gearshift lever. Mercedes-Benz S320L’s 9-speed automatic is relatively seamless, and the managing director behind its wheel will love the convenience of the column-mounted shifter. The Mercedes-Benz S320L demonstrated its cossetting abilities. Mercedes-Benz S320L has the quietest and gentlest ride, which towkays will appreciate after a long day at the office. But this saloon is also the biggest here, making it the least manoeuvrable in places such as carparks and narrow city streets. BMW 740Li's turbocharged 3-litre inline-6 motor. BMW 740Li’s turbocharged 3-litre inline-6 with 326hp and 450Nm is the most muscular motor, yet it is also the most efficient. Impressive. BMW 740Li's gearshift lever looks like it belongs in a fighter jet. BMW 740Li’s 8-speed automatic is the smoothest and most responsive gearbox. Enthusiastic towkays might also enjoy using the gearshift lever’s manual override, as the -/+ points are in the optimum positions. The BMW 740Li's rear-wheel-steering system makes it feel like a much smaller saloon. The BMW 740Li strikes the best balance between ride comfort and handling capability. It’s also the most agile limo, thanks in large part to its standard rear-wheel-steering system. Lexus LS350 has a naturally aspirated 3.5-ltire V6 that has a rorty soundtrack. Lexus LS350’s naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 with 310hp and 380Nm is the keenest engine in the group, and its soundtrack is surprisingly the sportiest, too. The Lexus LS350’s 10-speed automatic has the most number of forward ratios, but its tendency to frequently “hunt” at low speeds makes it the least seamless transmission in this group. The Lexus LS350's handling could have been even sharper, had it not been for its tyres. Lexus LS350 is nimbler than expected, although passengers seated in the rear may not like the firm ride. The Lexus LS350’s handling would have been sharper if the suspension wasn’t using comfort-biased tyres. Mercedes-Benz S320L's cabin looks the swankiest. Mercedes-Benz S320L’s cockpit is the group’s most sophisticated and most comfortable. It features dual 12.3-inch displays that dominate the dashboard, and armchair-like seats that support well-fed bodies. The “missing” sunroof, however, reduces the classiness of this otherwise atas cabin. The Mercedes-Benz S320L's instrument panel is very attractive. Mercedes-Benz S320L’s instrument panel has the largest real estate and the sharpest graphics. Its menu management is also the easiest, thanks to the operator-friendly touchpads integrated into the steering wheel. The Mercedes-Benz S320L's cushy backseat. Passengers in the Mercedes-Benz S320L are likely to fall asleep as the bench is the cushiest and the roomiest, with headrests that are even softer than the BMW 740Li’s. The three-position seat memory settings are a welcome touch, too. BMW 740Li's cockpit is clearly aimed at drivers. BMW 740Li’s cockpit is the group’s most driver-oriented as its dashboard is angled towards the driver. Bosses will love the excellent infotainment system, which comes with a “personal assistant” in the form of an on-call concierge service that’s complimentary for the first three years of BMW 7 Series ownership. The BMW 740Li's dials. BMW 740Li dials’ magnifier function is useful for businessmen who squint when reading P&L statements, while the head-up display is prettier than the Lexus LS350’s. Like the Lexus, the BMW 740Li’s display themes are tied to the chosen drive modes. The BMW 740Li's high-tech backseat. Tai-tais will love being chauffeured in the BMW 740Li as the mood lights on the B-pillars make it easier for them to check their hairdos and retouch their makeup on the go. Like the Lexus LS350, the BMW 740Li backseat’s higher hip point makes ingress/egress less tricky. Lexus LS350's cockpit is solid and refined. Lexus LS350 cockpit’s levels of luxury and solidity are the highest here. It’s also the only space with ventilated seats. But the infotainment system has annoyingly clumsy controls. Lexus LS350's instrument cluster. Lexus LS350’s instrument cluster is the least attractive and also the hardest to read at a glance. With all the pertinent information squeezed into a relatively small area, some towkays might find it confusing, too. Lexus LS350's backseat. Lexus LS350’s backseat is the least spacious, but it’s literally the coolest thanks to an extra pair of ceiling-mounted air-con vents and a chilled box for drinks. The centre armrest’s touchscreen is nifty, but it has fewer controls than the BMW 740Li’s detachable tablet. The Lexus LS350's boot. Lexus LS350’s 440-litre boot is the least ideal for lugging boxes, as it has the lowest internal height. But golf-loving directors will appreciate the numerous straps, which can help secure golf bags and golf umbrellas. Mercedes-Benz S320L's boot. Mercedes-Benz S320L’s 530-litre cargo hold is the most convenient in the dark, as it has a pair of LED lights inside the trunk and on the underside of the boot lid for illumination. It’s also the only one with a 12-volt power outlet for roadside emergencies. BMW 740Li's boot. BMW 740Li’s 515-litre cargo volume is the least useful, with substantial wheel-arch intrusion and no elastic straps for securing loose items. Underfloor storage, which is available in the Mercedes-Benz S320L, would have made the BMW 740Li a better cargo-hauler. The Lexus LS has totally shed its conservative image. Its aggressive styling may put off traditional clientele, but its tremendous presence means it’ll always be visible in a company carpark. We reckon that the LS350 will also be highly visible in many rear view mirrors given its newfound driveability. It is more nimble than ever, and its naturally aspirated powertrain, complete with a rorty soundtrack, encourages more spirited driving, too. The LS350 is so impressive that we forgive its comparatively limited backseat space and rather small boot. But we couldn’t overlook the car’s instrument cluster (too compact) and Remote Touch Interface (too clumsy). But if you’re a modern CEO who wants a limo that reflects your non-conformist personality, look no further than the latest LS. The Mercedes-Benz S320L is the archetypal towkay’s choice of car and might thus be seen as boring. But it’s hard to argue against the saloon’s strong points that include a super-cushy ride, a dazzling dashboard and a roomy backseat. Our biggest complaint about the S320L is its lack of verve. Because it’s the least powerful of the three saloons, the boss rushing to his board meeting might arrive late. But he’ll definitely be cossetted during the journey and arrive with his feathers unruffled. The 6-cylinder limo that best caters to towkays who love to drive is the BMW 740Li. It has the nippiest performance and nicest handling, further enhanced by the rear-wheel-steering. Moreover, the 7’s infotainment system is the most pleasing to use, and the vehicle has so many standard features that we’d run out of page space trying to list them all. But bean counters, take note – the 740Li is the costliest limousine in this company. Its current price of $470,888 is $35k dearer than the LS350 and a whopping $60k more than the S320L. The towkay who also wants to feel like a boss whenever he’s behind the wheel, however, might feel that the $470k 740Li is money well spent. BMW 740Le review Lexus LS350 is one sporty and luxurious limousine Facelifted Mercedes-Benz S320L is a satin sedan (Left to right) Mercedes-Benz S320L’s key has the fewest functions, but the big buttons are the most prestigious to press. The BMW 740Li’s device is the most advanced and is utilised for the Remote Parking function. Lexus LS350’s curvy fob has the most elegant look and feel.