Car and Driver recently released its 2024 rankings for the Best Full-Size Luxury Cars. To no one’s surprise, Mercedes and Audi made two appearances each on the list of 8. These rankings, derived from a combination of instrumental testing and expert impressions, are acquired through real-world driving experiences. The factors considered in the evaluation include comfort, cargo space, acceleration, fuel efficiency, and overall enjoyment. Let’s take a look at the top five of this master list.
1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- Starting price: $118,450
- The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has consistently defined luxury sedans and retains its position as the quintessential flagship model.
- Boasting cutting-edge technology and first-class comfort, the S-Class offers a leather-lined interior with numerous large screens and touch controls.
- Three all-wheel-drive powertrains include a silken 429-hp turbocharged straight-six (S500), a hearty twin-turbo V-8 with 496 horses (S580), and a plug-in hybrid variant (S580e) with impressive fuel efficiency. Regardless of the powertrain, the S-Class excels in handling and provides an exceptionally smooth ride, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury sedan segment.
2. 2024 Genesis G90
- Starting price: $90,970
- Redesigned for 2023, the Genesis G90 stands as the flagship and most luxurious sedan in the automaker’s lineup.
- The exterior design shares familial traits with other Genesis models, and the opulent cabin features Nappa leather upholstery, massaging front seats, and genuine wood trim.
- Powered by a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 (409-hp high-output version available), the G90 offers a smooth and velvety power delivery. Noteworthy features include an onboard fragrance diffuser and an air purifier, contributing to a luxurious and comfortable driving experience.
3. 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63
- Starting price: $190,000 (estimated)
- Returning with a new plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Mercedes-AMG S63, based on the S-Class architecture, impresses with glitz and performance, equipped with a twin-turbo V-8 and a rear electric motor, the S63 delivers an astounding 791 horsepower and 1055 pound-feet of torque.
- Limited to a sedan configuration, this supersedan promises a quick and comfortable ride, showcasing the industry’s electrified future.
4. 2024 BMW 7-Series
- Starting price: $97,395
- Despite radical exterior styling, the 2024 BMW 7-Series follows a successful formula, blending powerful engines, a comfort-focused driving demeanor, and a spacious cabin.
- Available with a turbocharged inline-six, a plug-in hybrid, or a twin-turbo V-8, the 7-Series offers a smooth ride and a hushed interior, ideal for long-distance journeys.
- Rear-wheel steering adds agility when the road gets twisty, and advanced tech features, including an optional rear entertainment display, enhance the overall passenger experience.
5. 2024 Audi A8
- Starting price: $89,995
- The Audi A8 distinguishes itself with a conservative yet confident personality and style, standing out in a sea of high-profile full-size luxury sedans.
- The spacious and comfortable interior features a rational design and control layout, complemented by a turbocharged V-6 engine known for its silent operation.
- Extensive sound deadening ensures a quiet interior, and the A8 surprises with its agility on winding roads, providing a fresh and relaxed driving experience.
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