MERCEDES-BENZ is not taking the latest BMW 7 Series and all-new Porsche Panamera threat lying down, electing instead to rejuvenate its four-year old flagship with a minor facelift, more standard features, improved technology and safety and … a price hike! But the outgoing, ninth-generation W221 Mercedes limousine was one of our very favourites, recapturing much of the deep quality feel that made the three-pointed star’s offerings so great a generation ago. Still, the competition is fierce, so does the newest S-class have what it takes to stay on top?