From handcrafted interiors to cutting-edge tech, luxury cars go beyond transportation. Learn what makes a luxury car and the features of Mercedes-Benz models.
At a glance, luxury vehicles may look like their mainstream counterparts — four wheels, a steering wheel, comfortable seats. So, what is considered a luxury car, exactly? The difference is in the details. From expert craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology to a driving experience designed around your comfort, luxury cars are built to deliver more than just transportation. They deliver a lifestyle.
Let’s explore what defines “luxury” in the world of modern vehicles and take a look at some of the outstanding features you can expect from Mercedes-Benz’s 2026 lineup.
So, what makes a car “luxury” in today’s automotive world? At its core, a luxury vehicle combines high quality, advanced engineering, and unique features that elevate the driving experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Unlike economy cars, which are designed primarily for affordability and efficiency, even entry-level luxury models are designed to exceed expectations.
Luxury is about refinement — the smoothness of the ride, the whisper-quiet cabin, and the way every button and control feels intentionally placed. It’s about performance, with powerful engines and advanced drivetrains that make every mile as exhilarating as it is comfortable. And perhaps most importantly, it’s about the trust and status that come from owning a vehicle made by a car brand steeped in history and innovation.
One of the hallmarks of a true luxury vehicle is an interior fit for royalty. High-quality materials like soft Nappa leather, real wood, and brushed aluminum, accented by ambient lighting, all contribute to the sense that you’re driving something special. Compare this to regular cars from mainstream brands, where plastic and fabric dominate, and the contrast is unmistakable.
Take the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan, for example, which Mercedes claims is “The one car that all cars look up to. And every driver looks forward to,” and you’ll see that they’re not wrong. Aside from its stunningly bold exterior, its cabin features a host of mind-blowing accoutrements, like:
Luxury cars are built for more than just aesthetics and comfort — they’re engineered to drive differently. A luxury model will almost always feature a powerful engine, responsive steering, and advanced suspension systems that adapt to road conditions.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the E450 4MATIC, is a prime example of how luxury vehicles balance performance and comfort. Its turbocharged 3.0L inline-six engine with mild hybrid drive produces 375 horsepower, while its 9G-TRONIC nine-speed transmission, All Wheel Drive, and AGILITY CONTROL® selective damping ensure that power is put to the ground smoothly and efficiently.
Features like these don’t just look good on paper — they make every ride feel effortless, whether you’re navigating tight city streets or opening up on the highway. It’s this type of refined driving experience that truly separates a luxury model from a regular car.
Luxury means being on the cutting edge of technology. Common features in modern commuter cars (think reverse cameras, automatic emergency braking, etc.) often find themselves in luxury vehicles years before they become mainstream.
Let’s take a look at another vehicle in Mercedes’ lineup — the GLE SUV — to highlight what kind of advanced driver assistance features and safety innovations you can expect from a luxury vehicle. The GLE attained the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick + Award ten years in a row (2016-2025). The upcoming 2026 model is packed with some incredible safety features, such as:
Ultimately, while standard commuter vehicles can get you from point A to point B, luxury vehicles can provide you with the peace of mind that you and your loved ones are protected if the unexpected happens along the way.
Of course, luxury is also about the name on the grille. When you choose a luxury vehicle, you’re investing in more than the car itself — you’re investing in a legacy. Luxury car brands like Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Range Rover, and Land Rover have spent decades building reputations for excellence. And with those legacies comes peace of mind. You know your vehicle is engineered with longevity as a priority, and you know that your ownership experience — from purchase to maintenance — will reflect the same commitment to quality these brands have maintained since their conception.
Luxury shouldn’t end when you drive off the lot; it should continue throughout your ownership of the vehicle. So, what’s considered “luxury” is also reflected in the type of service you get at dealerships when you need service.
With Mercedes-Benz, service means convenience and confidence. Many dealerships offer complimentary loaner vehicles, pick-up and delivery options, factory-trained technicians (A.K.A. the best of the best), and genuine Mercedes-Benz parts to ensure both you and your vehicle are maintained with the highest of standards.
When you experience luxury, you’ll recognize it immediately. If you want to know what true luxury feels like, explore our online inventory and stop by Ed Hicks Imports in Corpus Christi to explore the craftsmanship, technology, and comfort that define a Mercedes-Benz. We’ll show you exactly what separates luxury from the rest.
