The carmaker brought a couple of new S-Class models to our Auto Test Center to demonstrate the technology. Among the entourage was a rather decidedly low-tech-looking dummy (shown).

To the carmaker’s credit and no doubt to the relief of the dummy, the cars repeatedly and reliably stopped within inches of his scary-looking self, after first giving the driver ample time to steer around him or stop the car. The system works fast, first warning the driver of danger, then precharging the brakes and snugging safety belts before taking action if the driver does not. All of this happens in about three seconds, bringing the big sedan to a stop from 30 mph with remarkably little drama.

We also had a chance to experience the corrective steering and braking functions, which gently help keep the car in its lane with or without the driver’s assistance—even at highway speeds.

We applaud these safety developments and look forward to their availability in more reasonably priced cars soon. But if you’re hoping for the latest safety technology and a hot-stone massage feature in your next car, you’re going to have to spring for the new S-Class. Prices start at $92,900.

—Jim Travers

To the carmaker’s credit and no doubt to the relief of the dummy, the cars repeatedly and reliably stopped within inches of his scary-looking self, after first giving the driver ample time to steer around him or stop the car. The system works fast, first warning the driver of danger, then pre-charging the brakes and snugging safety belts before taking action, if the driver does not. All of this happens in about three seconds, bringing the big sedan to a stop from 30 mph with remarkably little drama. We also had a chance to experience the corrective steering and braking functions, that oh-so gently help keep the car in its lane with or without the driver’s help—even at highway speeds. We applaud these safety developments and look forward to their availability in more reasonably priced cars soon. But if you’re hoping for the latest safety technology and a hot stone massage feature in your next car, you’re going to have to spring for the new S-Class. Prices start at $92,900. —Jim Travers

The carmaker brought a couple of new S-Class models to our Auto Test Center to demonstrate the technology, along with one rather decidedly low-tech looking dummy. To the carmaker’s credit and no doubt to the relief of the dummy, the cars repeatedly and reliably stopped within inches of his scary-looking self, after first giving the driver ample time to steer around him or stop the car. The system works fast, first warning the driver of danger, then pre-charging the brakes and snugging safety belts before taking action, if the driver does not. All of this happens in about three seconds, bringing the big sedan to a stop from 30 mph with remarkably little drama. We also had a chance to experience the corrective steering and braking functions, that oh-so gently help keep the car in its lane with or without the driver’s help—even at highway speeds. We applaud these safety developments and look forward to their availability in more reasonably priced cars soon. But if you’re hoping for the latest safety technology and a hot stone massage feature in your next car, you’re going to have to spring for the new S-Class. Prices start at $92,900. —Jim Travers