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:

• 

  NS - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By kazbek - March 25 - 2:00 am

  The car is perfect..exept the novigation system

• 

  2003 S430 4matic - Lorinser Package - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Palm Desert - March 19 - 1:03 pm

  This was my dream car since 2000. At the price starting at $80K, I thought it would just remain a dream. I was blessed to have this used 2003 S430 this 12/2007. Its everything I expect it to be and more. Real quality & luxury.

• 

  Wake up, Mercedes - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Paul - March 15 - 6:53 pm

  This is my 7th Mercedes.The previous six were outstanding but this one is terrible. I had 3 Jaguars (97, 00 and 03) after my 6th and I am going back. This car has 95,000 miles and in the last 2 years, radio broke-(chip-$500), air suspension-($800), lower control arms and bushings-($1,000), and right now, the AC, the passenger side window , the parking sensor mechanism, the seat memory, the seat messagers, the CD changer, the seat memories all dont work, and rust is developing at the bottom of all 4 doors and behind the rear license plate even though is is meticulously maintained. I now have 3 friends with the S series who have sworn off them and never coming back.

• 

  Worlds Fastest Production Sedan & Most Versitle - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By amgfan - March 12 - 5:17 am

  In 2005-06, this car would do 220+ mph off the showroom floor in Germany. A few sports cars have faster 0to60 times, but most dont reach the same top end. Those that do have price tags which are multiples of the S65. Best part of the S65 is that it runs well (and efficiently on one 6-cylinder engine) around town without the need for retuning.

• 

  Hello Honey Im Home!! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By m-dizzle - March 1 - 2:00 am

  Unbelievable power. This vehicle is the pinnacle of refinement, a smooth ride, a powerhouse, with the all important smug factor.

• 

  Mercedes S- class - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By scooter of manhattan - March 1 - 2:00 am

  Not great with repard to service response from dealer or manufacturer, many delicery flaws not dealt with and neither manufacturer nor dealer take responsibiltiy -- a real frustrating catch 22 for a vehicle of this cost and supposed caliber.

• 

  lots of problems - 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By bob598 - February 27 - 5:03 pm

  This is my 9th S sedan...........its very tough to love.

• 

  Initial Impressons of the new S Class - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By C Hull M.D. - February 26 - 10:00 am

  This car replaced identical 2000 S Class which had numerous electrical and computer problems. New model is free from these glitches. Never had mechanical problem with Mercedes. Enjoy the quality of the burl walnut and interior appointments. New features that I like are the power trunk,keyless go start on the shift knob, voice control on nearly everything,power curtains, digital readout of tire pressures and a much improved navigational system on DVD. Car remains very responsive with sharp turning radius. I dont need AMG assist for my driving.It appears to me M-B has given us many innovations that are quickly copied by other manufactures.

• 

  Suspension noises - 2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By westgent - February 21 - 10:30 pm

  My 2008 S550 4matic has 47,000 miles and I am the 2nd owner. I have owned it for about a year and have put 12K on it with no major complaints other than the following: 1) Coolant Level warning light, 2) ABS warning light, 3) noisy front end suspension noises. I believe the first two items are simple computer error causing the warning lights to illuminate having checked the coolant level and braking system with no signs of being too low or malfunctioning respectively. The annoying noises are a mystery. Is the air suspension? Is it rocker arms or bushings? Any feedback and recommendations would be appreciated.

• 

  2002 S430 : So far so good!! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By GeminiOnie - February 4 - 3:46 pm

  I purchased a 2002 S430 with low miles and all the bells and whistles (still learning how to operate them). I love this car! Its definitely a beautiful car that gets a lot of attention, no matter how old it is! I am a previous Infiniti owner and I dont know why I didnt buy a S430 sooner! So far, I dont have any complaints on the performance. However, I will get a chance to test the limits once I take it on a long road trip. Well see what happens!