New Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC

This is very strange. The Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC rockets to 62mph in 7.1 seconds. Its kerb-weight is a scale-busting 1,955KG, and it is over five metres long. In contrast, the Skoda Yeti E 1.2 TSI hits 62mph in a fairly sluggish 11.8 seconds. Its kerb-weight is only 1,265KG, and this run-around is much smaller than the monstrous S-Class. So, which of these cars is the most fuel efficient? Logic suggests the Skoda, of course, but the Mercedes is the winner. As such, it averages 45.6mpg rather than 44.1. It is also more frugal on an extra-urban run which is amazing considering their relative speed and weight.

The Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC has other strengths to complement its puzzling frugality. The seven-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, the ride is mind-blowing, and the styling is bang up-to-date. The S-Class looks fantastic, even though some argue it is slightly anonymous. This 3.0-litre 258bhp four-door saloon also has tremendous handling and plenty of toys. Features include: MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth, parking sensors, cruise control, and luxurious leather seats. It even has a 560-litre boot, which is bigger than the Yeti's 'seat-up' capacity. No wonder this fuel-saver costs £60,605.

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

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