The Dolder Grand hotel in Zurich, Switzerland, which has seen a 21st-century addition by famed British architect Norman Foster wrapped around the original 1899 fairy tale-like castle, became the home base for our new S-Class test drive. It is easy to mistake this five-star hotel, perched atop the Adlisberg hill, for a fine art -museum, what with its extensive collection of paintings and sculptures by Salvador Dali, Takashi Murakami and Andy Warhol. The hotel’s ancient turrets, terraces and gables show that it still clings to its Swiss legacy, with the occasional bow to contemporary needs such as the 43,000 sq ft spa overlooking sweeping views of the Alps.
SINGAPORE (Oct 15): Luxury, by definition, conveys an excess in grandeur. But in modern times, opulence holds a specific meaning. It is an exercise in projection, a teaser of what is next. It encapsulates the motivation behind the finest craftsmanship. In an era where innovation fuels an even more luxurious future, Mercedes-Benz is constantly retracing its esteemed heritage, without tipping into nostalgia, while still staying above the curve — because this is an
automaker that builds icons for tomorrow.
For a brand that denotes luxury, Mercedes-Benz no longer aims for just excellence — it wants to be the benchmark. And what better way to start than by giving its best-selling luxury sedan worldwide — the flagship S-Class — an upgrade.
