Mercedes-Benz S-Class

There's a £112,470 gap between this top-of-the-range S-Class, and the entry-level S350 over the page. That's what happens when you spec 18-carat gold logos and leather soaked in aniline dye for a more supple finish.

These upmarket indulgences are part of a Designo package, a set of options crafted by the AMG people, including paints, leather and trim, that in this case add around £10k to the base price of a standard S65 - bringing the total price of the car to £171,010 and shooting it right to the top of the S-Class family tree.

Such luxury is usually reserved for the very poshest Middle Eastern hotel suites, and that's what it feels like inside this thing. Your bottom squidges into that soft leather and you can't help but run a finger along the immaculate wood trim.

Then there's the imperious 612bhp 6.0-litre V12 (0-62mph in 4.4secs) and wonderfully soothing ride.

OK, so £10,000 is a lot of cash for some leather and wood. But it certainly feels special, and when added to the S65, it becomes - arguably - the ultimate Mercedes. People who spend this sort of money won't wince too hard at the price. They want the best. And with Designo options, they'll get it.

Dan Read

On your drive for: £4,218pcm
Performance: 0-62mph in 4.4secs, max speed 155mph, 19.5mpg
Tech: 5980cc, 12cyl, RWD, 612bhp, 737lb ft, 2705kg, 346g/km CO2