2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.69/5 Average
69 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2003, there is more power for the S55 and S600 models, both of which now put out nearly 500 horsepower. Also Pre-Safe, a system that detects an imminent impact and quickly adjusts seating positions as well as seatbelt tension to better safeguard the occupants, debuts. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system becomes available on the S430 and S500 and a minor freshening inside and out are meant to keep these big Benzes near the top of luxury car buyer's shopping lists.

Pros:
  • World-class performance, state-of-the-art safety features, spacious and comfortable cabin.
Cons:
  • Complicated COMAND system, standard V8 models not as much fun to drive as BMW 7 Series.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 69.00
  • Best in Class - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    I was a previous E320 and a short lived 03 E500 owner. After being disappointed with the size of the E500 I traded up to the S430. I am pleased with the restyle and love the interior.

  • loving the ride...fingers crossed - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    Ive had the car for 3 weeks. It handles GREAT! and the ride is magnificent . Im having a ball using all of the great gizmos (most cabin functions are voice controlled, Keyless go, fully electronic trunk, and much more) Command is not nearly so difficult as the writers say you learn it in a few days. The 4matic, ESP and brake assist already got me out of what could have been a bad skid. My only concern is the occassional bad story of something going wrong with all of that technology, but Im loving the car too much to really think about it. I guess that is what extended warrantys are for

  • an excellent sport/ luxury car - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    If you have the money and the time I suggest getting it right away. YOU WILL LOVE IT

  • Too many problems for 80k car - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    Our car has been in the shop way too much for a car of this price. We are at 60000 now and have real problems. Will trade out in the near future...maybe a lexus

  • Best S Class - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    This is the best S class ever ! I love it

  • Never Again - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    Ive had the car for a 1 1/2 years and have had nothing but problems and only 8,500 miles. Malfunction in the air bags repeatidly and a broken window when they returned it to me. Every time it was serviced for a problem, it came back with another one!!! Quality Control is laughable as I just got it back AGAIN and the airbag light once again is on!!!! BEWARE!!! Most disappointing car Ive ever had!

  • Still needs improvement - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    I believe Mercedes still has a lot of room to improve on their "high end" car. It was always my dream to own a "Big Mercedes" for the style, luxury, and comfort. I find it to be satisfying with the car, but disappointed with the lack of attention to the details. This car always had some minor electrical problems (turning lights,ets) that the dealer can never seem to figure it out. Navigation system needs major improvement (with touch screen). Nevertheless, I like the style and smooth acceleration of its fine motor. Its like a dream come true, but not quite perfect.

  • comfort - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    Remarkably comfortable. Having moved from a bulky "luxury" SUV, I was delighted with the interior space and comfort of the big S class. The ride was also a pleasant revelation. Smooth with excellent grip. The availablity of the 4matic system should make owning a large sedan more appealing for people in snowy climates...

  • This car has everything! Performance/Styling/ Comfortable - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    I have owned many fun cars to drive such as the BMW M3 M5 and M6. I have also owned a modified BMW 335i and Volvo S60R. I have a 1 year old son so I wanted something that could COMFORTABLY fit my family in the vehicle but also something I could take out to car shows and car events. If you havent sat in the back of a W220 you should try it. PLENTY of leg room in the back seat. The car delivers plenty of power for everyday driving! Over 500lbs of tq and almost 500hp from the factory. What more would you ask for?

  • my 21st century cadillac fleetwood - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
    By -

    i purchased this car to replace a 1997 e-320 with 107,000 miles. what an improvement over a great car. the s- class literally floats on the road but with a good feel of the road at the same time. and to be honest, it is prestigious, which is why i call it my 21st century cadillac fleetwood, the car i always wanted when i was much younger a long time ago. furthermore, they price was discounted!!

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews By Year:
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