Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Tenerife: Driving Review

Tenerife is an island of dramatic contrasts. You can start your morning in the warm sunshine of the southern coast and find yourself shivering in thin mountain air just an hour later. Exploring this diverse landscape requires a vehicle that can adapt, which is why we decided to test a flagship luxury saloon on these demanding volcanic roads.

We spent several days driving the Mercedes-Benz S-Class across the island to see how it truly behaves in the real world. From sweeping motorways to impossibly tight mountain passes, we wanted to know if this large executive car makes sense for a Tenerife road trip. Here is our first-hand account of the experience.

How it drives on Tenerife roads

Cruising along the TF-1 motorway on the south coast is where you first appreciate the engineering of this vehicle. The long, fast sweepers of the highway highlight the exceptional cabin isolation. Wind noise and tyre roar are practically non-existent, allowing you to enjoy the premium sound system or simply have a quiet conversation. The air suspension glides over any minor imperfections in the tarmac, making the journey from the airport to the southern resorts feel entirely effortless. As you pass the arid, rocky landscapes of the south, the car remains perfectly composed, absorbing expansion joints and uneven surfaces with ease.

Turning inland, we took the TF-21 climbing up to Mount Teide. Reaching an altitude of 2,100 metres, the air gets noticeably thinner and the temperature drops sharply. Some naturally aspirated engines feel sluggish up here, but our Automatic, 3.0 L, 5 seats model had no trouble at all. The turbocharged engine delivers a smooth wave of torque that pushes the heavy car up the steep gradients with remarkable ease. The steering is light but precise, making the endless sequence of uphill corners surprisingly enjoyable rather than a chore. You can feel the weight of the vehicle, but the active suspension manages the body roll beautifully, keeping the cabin level as you carve through the pine forests.

However, the environment changes drastically when you head north to the Anaga forest roads. These routes are frequently damp, twisty, and often covered in a heavy mist. The sheer size of the S-Class becomes apparent here. While the advanced traction systems provide excellent grip on wet leaves and slippery asphalt, the long wheelbase requires you to be mindful of your lane positioning. You have to thread the car carefully through the tightest blind corners, constantly aware of oncoming traffic that might drift over the centre line. The serene quiet of the cabin remains, but your heart rate will inevitably rise as you navigate these ancient, overgrown pathways.

Where this car shines (and where it does not)

The S-Class is an absolute triumph when it comes to covering long distances in total comfort. If your itinerary involves travelling between Santa Cruz and the southern resorts, or taking leisurely drives along the wider coastal routes, there is simply no better way to travel. The seats offer immense support, and the climate control system handles the intense afternoon sun effortlessly. The digital dashboard is crystal clear even in direct sunlight, and the wealth of driver assistance systems makes motorway cruising a highly relaxing affair.

But we must be completely honest about its drawbacks. This car does not belong on the TF-436 heading into Masca. That road is famous for its extremely narrow cliff hairpins and steep drops. Small cars have a distinct advantage on the Masca descent. Taking a long, wide luxury saloon down these single-lane mountain passes is a stressful experience. You will frequently find yourself reversing to let oncoming coaches pass, and the tight turning circle required for the hairpins will test your spatial awareness to the absolute limit. There are moments where the sheer width of the car leaves you with mere centimetres between the rock face on one side and a sheer drop on the other. If Masca is on your bucket list, you might want to take a bus or hire a smaller secondary vehicle for the day.

Practical notes

Navigating the busy resort streets in Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, and Playa de las Americas presents another set of challenges. The S-Class is a very long car. Finding a suitable space on the street is difficult, especially when you are looking for those coveted blue-line meters where street parking is regulated. You will often have to rely on underground parking garages, and even then, navigating the tight concrete ramps requires heavy reliance on the 360-degree camera system. The parking sensors will beep frantically as you negotiate the dark, narrow ramps built for compact European hatchbacks.

Fuel economy is surprisingly reasonable for a large engine pulling such a heavy chassis, provided you keep a steady pace on the motorway. Naturally, the constant acceleration required on the steep mountain climbs to Teide will see your fuel gauge drop much faster. Expect to visit the petrol station more frequently if your trip involves daily mountain excursions.

Luggage capacity is generous. The deep boot easily swallows three large suitcases and a few soft bags, making it ideal for airport transfers and long stays. The rear seats are incredibly spacious, offering vast amounts of legroom for adult passengers. This car suits small families or couples who prioritise extreme comfort and refinement over nimble handling. It is perfect for those who want to arrive at a high-end restaurant in Costa Adeje feeling relaxed and refreshed, rather than fatigued from a long day of driving.

Verdict

Driving the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Tenerife is a tale of two very different experiences. On the sweeping TF-1 motorway and the wide, well-paved roads up to the national park, it is a magnificent machine that isolates you from fatigue. It turns a simple drive into a deeply relaxing event, allowing you to absorb the stunning volcanic scenery in absolute peace.

Yet, the island is also full of ancient, narrow roads that were never designed for a car of this footprint. You have to plan your routes carefully and accept that some of the more remote, cliffside villages are best left to smaller vehicles. If you understand these limitations and stick to the roads where it excels, the S-Class provides an unparalleled level of luxury for your Tenerife holiday. It requires a confident driver and careful route planning, but the reward is a motoring experience that few other vehicles can match.

Where to book the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Tenerife

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