The S-Class, commercialized since 1954, is at the top of the sedan hierarchy at Mercedes-Benz.  This touring vehicle offers utmost luxury and comfort and Mercedes-Benz often uses it to introduce its technological innovations.  In fact, the W221 generation, commercialized starting with the 2007 model year,  introduces the first hybrid vehicle offered by Mercedes-Benz, the S400 Hybrid.  Its primary rivals, also of German origin, are the BMW 7 Series and the Audi A8.  Like them, the S is available in regular or stretched version, the latter aimed at owners who prefer to be driven.