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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  Hot rod sedan. Great for work or pleasure - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Ric h Woods - July 8 - 3:56 am

  Of all the luxury sedans Ive owned, this one is the best. Overall, nothing can touch it. Performance, features, and even price (based on everything you get) is superb. This wont be my last S class AMG car.

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  Fat Ride - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Baller - June 27 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE this car. Its a pleasure to drive and looks GREAT!!! This is a true example of you get what you pay for and you wont be dissappointed.

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  Great luxury and safety - 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By 2005 Mercedes-Benz s - June 21 - 5:06 am

  I have owned two S500 sedans and I cant imagine driving anything else. I have the sport package and love the interior. The ride is so smooth,nothing compares. The front and rear seat areas are roomy. Seats are comfortable and easily adjustable to drivers and passengers of all sizes. Very open feel and no blind spots. Keyless go and automatic door and trunk closing is great. Sound system is awesome. Hands free phone system is a must have. I had a major side impact accident and the car held up to its reputation for safety. The head curtain airbags saved my life, and side door airbags prevented serious injury. Walked away without a scratch.

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  A best buy - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By The Young Looker - June 15 - 8:33 pm

  Definetely a real good deal when buying used ( low mileage ). Besides the cars still a real good looker, the 2003 430 can provide exceptional comfort, nothing a car of its age can. Performance is not significant, however is not underpowered. Those who desires performance might go with the 500 or the twin turbocharged 600. Watch for drivers side electronic seat, it might be disfunctional due to aging. Others, are exceptional

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  ARE YOU GUYS NUTS? - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By liou - June 13 - 10:00 am

  The review of the car must have been done by some idiot. THey obviously dont know what to look for in a luxury car. I have no problems with the car for 3 yrs and love driving across canada. Normally, edmunds helps, but this reviewer should be FIRED.

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  The King of Automobiles - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By harris hardin - June 9 - 7:46 pm

  This S550 is absolutely wonderful. Its a car anyone would dream of owning and driving daily or just some extended trips. Its so roomy andcomfortable, and you can always tell that there is plenty of power left at any speed. A 5 star winner for Mercedes of North America.

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  Impressive! - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By ACrossley - June 7 - 10:00 am

  My wife had always wanted a Benz. Ive driven BMWs for the last seven years. I must say Im very impressed with this car. While it doesnt handle like a BMW, it is none the less very impressive. I love to drive the car. The weekend I bought it, I drove it 1,000 miles and loved it! I definitely have moved over to Mercedes Benz!

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  Horizon Blue Benz - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By G Caillier - May 29 - 3:26 am

  I bought this car on ebay and I have had it for 2 years. It handles very well and is beautiful. I wish the navagation would auto update( each time you start up) like my husbands Platinum esv Escalade. I know this was pioneering navagation. I am thinking of getting another one if I can find one in the same color.I have the s430. I choose this one after comparing the dimensions of the back seats between 430/500. The 430 excelarated faster. I have had to spend no major $ on repairs I do my A and B services reg. Go For it.

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  Things to change - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Darlyne Forister - May 19 - 4:40 pm

  I like driving the car. However every time my husband gets in to drive he will hit the little buttons on the bottom of stering wheel and puts it into another gear. No one told us about this button. So we dint know what was going on. Also the small light in the front of car (on bottom) keeps coming out. Have tried to put it back myself but it won"t stay in place. I also have trouble with the phone system. I have to reprogram it every time. This should not be.

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  Buyer should know better... - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By jbrtoo - May 17 - 11:54 am

  When you bought an older S-class, you should have expected it to cost you $$$ in repairs. My 2000 S500 has cost me $12,000 in repairs since I bought it 4 years ago. Now that sounds like a lot, but when you spread it over the 4 years, it has cost me $250 per month to drive the sweetest production car on the road. When you throw in depreciation, it has cost me about $400 per month to drive it. Show me a comparable vehicle that you can drive for that cost--its not out there. So although the S500 gives you heartache and wallet-ache at times, do the math and youll realize it has been well worth it!