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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  Serious Speed in a Sedan - 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By D Coz - December 11 - 9:50 am

  This is a first class car. It is quick off the line and even quicker when you accelerate from 70 up. The transition of power is real smooth and with the sport package wheels its flashy with a minimum of chrome. I love the car and all my friends envy me now. Best car Ive ever had. Buy one if you can afford it. Its slick!

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  Never Again - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Neveragain!!!! - December 8 - 10:00 am

  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!

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  Best Luxury Vehicle - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Tonee - November 25 - 5:53 am

  The Mercedes S550 is by far the best premium luxury car in its class. It handles great, looks great and is overall a really awesome car. I love driving it around town everyday and getting all the looks, my children love driving it too. They say its a chick magnet.

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  The Best Luxury Car Ever. - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Louis27 - November 23 - 2:26 pm

  Saying that the new S Class Mercedes Benz is lavish is an understatement. For me this has to be by far the best luxury sedan. I also have a 2006 750 BMW that I think its great in every sense of the word. But I like the S Class a little bit more. This is a better car than the older S Class Mercedes Benz in every possible way. It handles better, rides better, fit and finished, the sound system, navigation, and all of the controls.

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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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  Big and Best - 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Pacemaker1 - November 20 - 2:26 am

  I dont think there is a whole lot of comparison between this car and BMW 7 series. These are both great cars. If you are in for gadgets then a Lexus LS 460 will do the same with less cost. Having said that it is a different world to drive this beast with the best of world for gadgets and performance. The car is simply mind blowing in terms of latest technology and comfort. Best testimonial for this car can be derived from the fact it is widely used if not most widely by distinguished politicians and celebrities. We all know how unsafe politicians around the world are and their dependence on this car will reassure you all more than an average Joe like me. If you have money this is your toy

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  Not Perfect - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Jay - November 16 - 6:33 pm

  There are some things about this car that are exceptional. Engine, drive train, performance, handling and styling are all terrific. MB has also done a really nice job with the electronics. I could figure out how to use all of the controls without the manual. The less good news. Stereo sound should be better. XM radio doesnt work well if you have many trees in your area. Dashboard dials look worse than my old E class. Materials on interior arent noticably better than on my old E class. The biggest beef I have with the car is that it has some squeaks and rattles in the dash and doors. This is unaccepatble in a car of this price/class.

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  The Neo-Classic Benz - 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By murray - November 11 - 6:26 am

  A perfectly executed modern rendition of classics past. Mercedes had the courage to combine a refreshingly new look with the best design elements of earlier models. The 300 Adenauer of the Fifties comes most closely to mind. The hint of fenders, jewel like tail lamps, the proud grille, genuinely tasteful headlamps in this era of hideous excess. The design elements come together brilliantly, totally sidestepping the grotesque for sake of difference found in so many other current vehicles. Beautifully, beautifully harmonious.

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  The Best - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Wahoo - November 7 - 8:33 pm

  I have the limited edition and have never owned or driven a nicer car. Its fast, smooth, roomy front and back and gets surprisingly good gas mileage (25.5mpg on the interstate and 21.6 overall for the first 3000 miles). My wife and my mother rave about the seat massage. I love this car!

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  Marks S430 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Mark Papay - November 4 - 1:33 am

  My Mercedes-Benz S430 is the finest car that Ive ever driven. This is the so-called base model of the "S" series and it is provided with standard features that most other manufacturers have never even thought of. It actually out-performs the stated EPA mileage data (17/26). It provides an amazing blend of comfort and performance at a surprisingly tolerable price.