When the current-generation S-Class was launched back in 1998, it marked a break from tradition: smaller, lighter and sleeker than the mammoth barges that had gone before, it added sportiness to its list of attributes. So there hasn't been much that Mercedes has needed to do with this global success story, still a favourite amongst the discreetly (and not so discreetly) rich of many continents, but a mid-life facelift has brought in some new engines - a bi-turbo V12, a supercharged 5.4-litre V8 for the S55 AMG, an enlarged 3.7-litre petrol and the revised 3.2-litre diesel - and some minor styling tweaks and upgrades, plus the fitment of a new accident-sensing safety system, Pre-Safe.

Easier on the eye than the controversial BMW 7-Series, the new S-Class nonetheless has its work cut out against Audi's latest techno-themed A8 and the new Jaguar XJ, not to mention the surprise entry in the sector, the very accomplished Volkswagen Phaeton. Mercedes also has to guard against crossover with the uber-luxury Maybach, or indeed, the much-improved, very well-equipped and almost-as-roomy E-Class, yet still keep the S-Class as a distinctively different offering without scaring off its long-term faithful customers. Expect a more radically revised S-Class next time around then, but in the meantime, these most recent modifications are small but significant.

Prices and versions: 12 versions, costing £44,410 - £85,890
On sale: October 1st