In keeping with this morning's review trend, a reader by the name of Shiv pointed us to a Top Gear article in which they share their thoughts on the newest Mercedes S65 AMG.

As was the case with the previous S65 AMG review and as I'm sure will continue to be the case with the majority of future S65 reviews, the author, although pointing out the Mercedes' strengths, questions the vehicle's relevance and whether or not it's worth the added cost over a standard S550.

While many, including this reviewer, question the integrity of such a vehicle, viewing it as a mere exercise in futility, I often wonder why vehicles of this nature are so quickly criticized.

Picture for a moment Ferrari or Lamborghini; both brands produce exceptional automobiles, but in reality, both brands are built entirely on frivolity.  Nobody needs a Ferrari; nobody needs a Lamborghini; and yet, rarely is either brand's necessity brought into question.

Why then is the Mercedes S65, the unabashed leader in German luxury engineering, consistently looked down upon? The answer, quite simply, is because people have preconceived notions of what they believe a car should be.

Ferraris and Lamborghinis are built on speed and aggressive styling - and that's what consumers expect; Mercedes are built on luxury... on understated elegance - and that's what consumers expect.  Any time a vehicle steps out of a brand's perceived image, the public's first reaction is inevitably to question why the vehicle even exists. 

But what about those that want speed - those that want to accelerate from 0-60 in 4.4 seconds, without sacrificing luxury?  What about those that want a car they can drive daily... a car they can safely transport their family with... a car they can take their business associates out for drinks in... all while being able to reach a top speed of almost 200 mph, if they feel so inclined?

To this segment, the answer - the only answer that exists - is the Mercedes S65 AMG.

Does this make the S65 necessary?  No, not at all.  But when you think about, in the grand scheme of things, what really is necessary?  Is any Mercedes necessary?  Is going out to an expensive dinner necessary?  Is owning a large house necessary?  No.  Yet in life, these are things we aspire to, not because they're necessary, but because they bring us enjoyment. 

That, ladies and gentlemen, is why the Mercedes S65 AMG exists - not because it's needed; not because it's worth it; but rather, because it offers the select few lucky enough to own it a level of enjoyment unmatched by any other luxury sedan.

For more info, head over to Top Gear for the full review.