IT never fails to amaze me the lengths manufacturers go to in order to produce the car that caters to our every need and whim and I discovered a function on the Mercedes CLS that perfectly proves that point.

How annoying is it when you get into your car, put on the seatbelt, start the engine ready for the off only to check the rearview mirror to find some back seat passengers have left their headrests up and you can't see a thing?

That's when you're faced with the decision - shall I bother to get out and lower them? Shall I pull all sorts of muscles attempting to lean back and adjust them? Or shall I simply drive away?

Well, that dilemma is easily sorted in the CLS because at the push of a button the rear headrests are restored to their proper lowered position - it's that simple.

This is just one of the many features that adorn the beautifully crafted car that is packed to busting with technology and creature comforts.

The seats can be adjusted every way imaginable and offer a massage function; the Bluetooth system is one of the most efficient I've come across; the on-board infotainment system could keep the most geekish techie amused for days on end.

Admittedly all this wizardry comes at a price - £49,385, increased to £60,078 with a whole host of options added - but if you opt for a premium car you can expect to pay a premium price.

The CLS is an instant attention-grabber with its bullet-like exterior design. It's low, long and very streamlined. It features a chrome radiator grille with two louvres, LED daytime running lights, an electric glass sunroof, privacy glass and 18-inch alloys.

And the interior really is fit for a prince and oozes quality and sophistication at every turn.

Mercedes has incorporated the very finest leathers and materials to create a cabin environment that is comfortable, practical and very welcoming.

So the CLS looks amazing, has more luxurious features than the Queen Mary and offers amazing comfort levels, but does the performance match up?

The answer to that is a resounding yes. This car appears to glide everywhere - the ride really is that smooth. The 2.2-litre diesel-powered engine provides incredible power as the car coasts to 62mph from a standing start in just 7.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 146mph.

Road-holding is exceptional as is the all-round visibility and there is barely a sound from the road surface or engine.

All passengers have bags of space to stretch out and the massive boot can hold 590 litres worth of luggage which can be increased to 1,550 with the split-folding rear seats laid flat.

Despite its size, the CLS proved deceptively agile and parking sensors and cameras make parking all the easier, although a larger-than-life space is required.

As one might expect, Mercedes has packed a comprehensive range of safety features into the car and there is an excellent security system to keep away any uninvited attention.

All in all, the CLS is a dream of a car. I would ask what innovative ideas manufacturers will come up with next, but, of course, we are well on the way towards the introduction of cars that drive themselves.