Originally Posted by UrBusted

Blame government regulations, they'll hopefully increase the speed once it proves itself. In Europe it's limited to 37mph for now, I think it's still the only car that's ever been approved for level 3 autonomy, ie its legal for you to not have to watch the road

Originally Posted by crabman

It's not just the speed, you also have to have the high detail mapping and regulatory approval. Considering matrix lighting is legal across the US and installed on these cars. It's been for long enough that you'd think new cars would have it turned on and sold cars could get it enabled but no, you cant without going aftermarket coding I'm not holding my breath on something that still has many hoops to jump. Maybe the 2030 S-Class will have a drive pilot you can actually use but a 24... I'm guessing the entire lease may transpire without ever being able to turn it on in some areas of the US.

Originally Posted by crabman

Couldn't agree more: Hated the cheap looking black plastic the first time I saw it and hated it in every car after. Yes, hate, not dislike. Hate, hate, hate it. Certainly a candidate for worst material in a car in my lifetime. Right up there with the fake plastic chrome that used to start peeling off after a year. Or the old people will remember the woven vinyl material used on the seats; think lawn chair. Break one strand and feces went to hell in a big hurry. There's probably more but that's off the top of my head.

Originally Posted by rw594

Ever heard of Genesis, sir?

I feel the Genesis G90 LWB is a better car for your demographic than the current S-class.

It is plain to see that MB has gone full-out Tesla with the W223, fitting it with every technological gadget they can find. In this process, they've sacrificed 90% of the physical buttons in this car, and used lots of plastic parts, which really impaired the interior build quality. Just try pressing down on any of the piano-black plastic trims in the cabin - those plastics are squeaky, even when new!

The Genesis G90, however, is a bit of an old-guard. Physical controls on the steering wheel and dashboard; solid interior that does not moan when touched with the slightest force; and lush materials throughout, on par with the highest-trimmed S class.

The G90 is lagging behind the current S-class in terms of technology. No AR HUD (just a regular HUD), smaller central screen, no gesture recognitions... But at 75, perhaps you could do without such gimmicks : )

Originally Posted by VicLaw

Demographic? Well I never...

Here in Clearwater FL I can not find a G90 to test drive without driving over 60 miles. They can't seem to keep them in stock locally and that's for 3 dealers.

As for bells and whistles, have little need of them. Normally I don't talk to my devices or wave my arms (unless I'm ordering a drink). I did start to talk to my navigator with the 2020 only because it was expedient for designations and to stop the directions. If I decide to wait for the 2024 I will find time to test the G90.

Thanks for your suggestion

Originally Posted by Bubba1

Vic, in our market (Canada) there are 22 S580 with very little mileage (less than 5000 miles) being discounted some 15%+.

There’s also a fair bit of inventory at the dealerships. If you can get a decent deal on a 23 by waiting a few months (ie around 10% off I would go for it). Or get a gently used 22 and save even more.

just sayin…

Originally Posted by VicLaw

Well, my decision tree just got simpler. The used/demo(?) was sold while I'm scratching my head and other parts. But these discussions have been enlightening.

Looking at the CinemaScope screens of the 2024 E started me thinking. What do I want from my new car? As someone who started driving with analog gauges, a carburetor and monaural AM radio (now AM is eliminated by some) I forgot what is a necessity and what is frivolous.

In my luxury car (obviously) I'll need ABS, blind spot monitoring, GPS/Nav, Sirius, and a spare tire. So when I look at a two or three page MB MSRP Options listing I wonder why I'm paying for 30% to 40% of these like Parktronic.

So I'll go with the flow, wait for 2024 info or save some $$ on a 23 in the lot. With rear wheel steering - I need that.