Overview & Reviews

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is as synonymous with state-of-the-art luxury and safety features as it is with country club prestige. Mercedes has used its flagship sedan to pioneer many modern technologies, such as airbags, antilock brakes and stability control. Yet as the brand's largest sedan, the S-Class has also offered the most room for rear-seat passengers, making it a favorite of wealthy dads and heads of state alike.

The current Mercedes-Benz S-Class continues that tradition established by its many innovative forbears and remains one of the most desirable choices for a flagship luxury sedan. Besides its wealth of features, opulent interior and bulletproof construction, the S-Class also stands out with an unmatched number of engine and model choices. From the diesel-powered S350 with its epic range and commendable fuel economy to the flagship S65 AMG with its twin-turbo V12 and intense performance, there is a little something for everyone in this lofty price bracket.

Current Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The current Mercedes-Benz S-Class is distinguished by aggressive fender flares and a stately profile that's emphasized by a rising character line. The cabin is elegant, with a minimal number of buttons thanks to the multifunction COMAND controller mounted between the seats.

There are six trim levels that correspond to engine choice. The range starts with a pair of fuel-efficient options. The S350 Bluetec features a diesel-powered V6 good for 240 horsepower and 25 mpg combined. The S400 Hybrid comes with a small electric motor that aids its gasoline-powered V6 to the tune of 295 total hp. Fuel economy is strong for a full-size luxury sedan at 22 mpg combined, but that's obviously worse than the slightly quicker and cheaper S350.

For a more traditional S-Class experience, the S550 is the bread-and-butter model that produces 429 hp from its twin-turbo V8. Next up is the S600 and its 510-hp twin-turbo V12. Finally, there are the high-performance, range-topping AMG models. The S63 AMG (536-hp twin-turbo V8) and S65 AMG (621-hp twin-turbo V12) get AMG-specific suspension, steering, brakes and styling elements. All S-Class models are equipped with an automatic transmission (seven speeds in all but the V12 versions, which have a five-speed unit) and rear-wheel drive. The S550 can be had with "4Matic" all-wheel drive.

We could list the number of standard and available features on the S-Class, but we would be here all day. In short, if there's a feature you can think of, you can probably get it on Benz's flagship. Those who intend to frequently carry around passengers should pay special attention to the wealth of backseat comfort and entertainment options available.

In reviews, we've found that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class remains a regal car regardless of which numbers line its trunk lid. If you want fuel economy from your high-luxury sedan, the S350 delivers, while the V8 and V12 models get you swifter 0-60-mph times. The S-Class doesn't handle as crisply as some other competing flagships, but it has a luxurious cabin and a balance of competent handling and a serene ride that is second to none. In total, the S-Class may be priced higher than its competitors, but its superior craftsmanship, engineering and attention to detail should make it worth the extra dough.

Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Models
The current, fifth-generation S-Class debuted in 2007. Not much has changed in terms of design or features, but Mercedes has altered the engine lineup considerably. Until 2010, only the V8- and V12-powered models were available. The S400 Hybrid debuted for 2010, while the S350 Bluetec dawned for 2012. The S550's V8 was different in prior years as well; from 2007-'11 it was a 5.5-liter V8 good for 382 hp. From 2007-'10, the S63 AMG featured a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 that produced 518 hp. Earlier S65s also had "only" 604 horses.

The fourth generation of the S-Class ran from 2000-'06 and was lighter and sleeker than the massive version that preceded it. Two versions were offered initially, both V8s: the S430 (275 hp) and the S500 (302 hp). The V12-powered S600 (362 hp) debuted a year later, as did the AMG version, the S55 (354 hp). A midcycle refresh in 2003 brought lightly revised light clusters, the availability of all-wheel drive (called 4Matic) and a big boost in power for the S55 and S600 (both rated at 493 hp). A seven-speed automatic came on line in '04. Hitting both ends of the spectrum for 2006, the S350 brought back six-cylinder power (241 hp) while the S65 AMG offered no less than 604 hp.

This model was quite popular and pretty steep depreciation means they are actually quite affordable. In reviews of the time, our editors were impressed by the car's spacious interior and state-of-the-art safety features. Downsides to this generation included a complicated control interface (the COMAND system) and some interior materials that seemed too low in quality for Mercedes' flagship.

Running from 1992-'99, the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class represented a big step in the ultra-luxury direction. Fitted with dual-pane windows and the availability of V12 power for the first time, this S-Class gained nearly 600 pounds compared to the previous car. Four trims were offered, ranging from the S320 (228-hp inline-6) and S420 (275-hp V8) to the S500 (315-hp V8) and S600 (389-hp V12). If you are considering the purchase of one of these, be forewarned that (as with any complex, high-end luxury vehicle) a clean Carfax report and an impeccable maintenance record are musts.

The S-Class cars of the second generation (1981-'91) were offered in turbodiesel (300SD, 350SD/SDL), inline-6 (300SE/SEL) and V8 (380 SE/SEL, 420 SEL, 560 SEL) versions. This is the generation that introduced cutting-edge safety technology such as airbags and antilock brakes as standard equipment. Perhaps the least desirable of the lot are the 380 series, which made just 155 hp and were prone to timing chain failures. Chances are good that if you find a used 380-series, it will have been retrofitted with a double timing chain. Diesel versions are known for their incredible longevity and it's not unusual to find an example with mileage approaching 300,000 or more on its original powertrain.

User Reviews:

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  Be aware - 1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By nick - November 14 - 11:46 am

  Ive sold my 95 BMW 740i (V8) to save a money on fuel. The real mileage in town just 20 mpg, only 24 mpg on freeway. Dont fall for the 40 mpg lies! Car lacks stop and go power in the city. Auxiliary fan low speed was the reason it ran hot. No cup holders, parts cost fortune, not even close to Bimmers Ive had. Car from the 90s, outdated, slow. I lost money on repairs Ill never get back. Hard to re-sell because its unknown and rare model in US.

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  Money Pit - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Kim - August 18 - 2:34 am

  I bought it in 2013, thinking I was getting a good deal, but it is old and now the car is starting to deteriorate quickly. I spent over $4,000 this past year on the AC, Motor Mounts, Transmission mounts, oil valve cover, O2 sensors, hoses. It hit 100,000 miles and the tune up is due. Even without labor and wholesale, the cost of 16 spark plugs and wires is $500! Now my suspension is going and its in the shop. Waiting for a revised estimate since they keep adding more parts. I would not buy a old Mercedes again. I spent another $3000 on the car in 2016. I loved the car, but it is a money pit.

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  Worst Car I have ever owned - 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By daisy38 - January 27 - 11:14 pm

  Purchase the car in August 2014 with "all the bells and Whistles Barely drove it, was in the shop every 100 miles. Problems with computer, direct injection. Too many distractions, hard to work heat/ac. The cameras are distracting on the dash. Mercedes is buying the car back because it constantly breaks down and leaves me on the road. 2K miles on the car in 6 months and I drove mostly a loaner car. Not even sure I have a lux car, Ive been driving a loaner. Car was in the shop for a month, got it back and it broke down the next day, Mercedes hasnt even offered a loaner this time. Totally unreliable. If you look on this site you see dozens of them turned in with less than 5K miles.

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  VERY UPSET WITH MERCEDES - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By TOM PAPPAS - December 8 - 2:00 am

  THE CAR HAS GONE THRU 5 BATTERIES 3 MAIN COMPUTERS ALTENATOR DAMPERS, VARIUS WIRING.2 SUSPENSIONS 2A ARMS INTERIOR LIGHTS DO NOT WORK WHEN HEADLIGHTS ON NAVIGATION GOES ON WHEN YOU PUT ON THE RADIO STEERING BELT BROKE AT 18,000 MILES WOUND UP ON I SIDE WALK WITH MY WIFE IN CAR COMPUTERS WENT OUT WHILE I WAS DRIVING THRU LINCLON TUNNEL AND WHILE I WAS ON THE ROAD .SILVERSTARMOTORS IN QUEENS MAINTAINED THE CAR FOR 2 YEARS AND THEY MAID THE CAR WORSE THAN IT IS I PURCHASED THE CAR FOR SAFETY AND RELIABILITY BUT THE CAR DID NOT DELIVER I AM UPSET WITH MERCEDES AND THE DEALERSHIPS FOR SELLING THESE JUNK CARS A

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  Straight talk on heavy repair costs - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By reality_chek - October 4 - 1:42 am

  The bargain price of today hides expensive repairs. It has design flaws: cup holders, knee hits seat warmer, ugly center console. It has known leak issues and electrical issues. It has air suspension issues. Auto door locks and trunk flaws. Dont forget the untreated metal that rusts from the inside. Watch for rust around tire wells all up and down sides. Rust quote was $2700. The gorgeous slick design holds water. The car is now 11 so expect collapsed engine mounts, catalytic converter rattles, drive shaft flex disk...So you can plan on buying it for $6-7K and putting 6-8K into it and you will get a beautiful smooth powerful ride that originally cost $80K+ and the engine will go to 200K mi.

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  This Car is No Good - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Goku - March 23 - 3:36 am

  When I started driving, it was very uncomfortable. When I got on the road, the car started slipping. Then it stopped slipping. So I went and drove home to my hometown, Chicago, IL. When I arrived, I turned into my street and my back wheel started drifting. It almost crashed but luckily it didt. The fuel in my tank was OK and it was better then my other car. It looks good but i will never rely on that car anymore. As soon as the weather is better Ill go and return the car. It was not ery fun to drive.

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  Great while working - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By craigdabaker - November 21 - 2:38 am

  This car is a very expensive car to own. I purchased this car in 2009 as a certified used vehicle. This car drives great when it is not in the shop. There are serious brake and transmission problems with this car. I will never ever purchase another mercedes

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  MB quality is poor - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By David Hiers - May 23 - 10:00 am

  Within an hour of bringing this brand new car home the passenger side xenon headlights burned out. The car has a vibration at 55 mph and above. The car has been back to the dealership for 5 days out of the 8 I have had it and they still cannot fix the vibration. They put brand new michelin tires on it yesterday and it still vibrates. They are calling in a MB technician next week to see what is wrong. It vibrates so bad that the passenger seat and headrest shake. The cupholders are really bad. The dealership has been very professional but have been unable to fix the problem. Wish I had purchased the LS430.

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  Wha-hawpen? - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Paul Jacob - May 19 - 2:08 am

  I currently own a 1983 380SL and a 2001 S430. I have owned a 280SE and a 380SEL. My S430 radio will not receive AM anymore; a $1200 estimate by Mercedes to fix. The fob does not unlock, nor will it lock the doors; a $2400 estimate from Mercedes dealer to fix. The trunk will not open, only by the key in the fob; $1200 estimate to fix. This S430 is fragile in many places, like the seat frames and center console ash trays (doors) plastic grill, and over 100 switches between the front door buttons. The AC controls are fickle, and the "check engine" light comes on for no good reason. This S430 will be my last Mercedes Benz. I feel as though I have been snookered. Quality is fleeting.

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  Looks nice but - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By RLP - April 8 - 4:43 am

  This is the most uncomfortable car I have ever driven. As a professional chauffeur who drives fifteen hours a day, five days a week its important to feel comforable.The noise level is not as good as in previous models.The drivers seat needs a lot of improvment. Mercedes Benz needs to ask "real time " drivers for suggestions.My 1976-450SLC, 1985- 500SEL,1992-600SEL, 1998-S420, 2000- S430, and 2003-500 4matic. All were more comfortable and quiet than the new 2007-550 4matic I have now. Mercedes is not what it use to be.