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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  A star is born! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Jack Carnevale - February 4 - 4:23 am

  I have owned Mercedes for more than 30 year and have always enjoyed the ultimate driving experience. I thought I had reached the pinnacle in 2001 when I purchased my new S55. I imagined keeping the car for at least 10 years. Then along came the S550 and changed my driving world. I took delivery on Feb. 14 and have enjoyed driving all of the 600 miles that Ive racked up on the odometer. Comfort, performance, grace, style and a luxury experience that I have not experienced in any other car. I am probably the first in my area to take delivery of this extraordinary vehicle. The comments Ive been getting are extraordinary from old and young alike. My love affair with Mercedes is reconfirmmed

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  Simply Awesome! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By tommy2skis - January 22 - 6:57 am

  This is my 5th Mercedes S Class and my 12th Mercedes. I have owned my share of Bimmers, Porsches, Lincolns, Caddys, Land Rovers and other luxury rides and I keep coming back to a Benz. A several year old, low mile, S Class, is the best car buy on the planet. Who in their right mind would spend upwards of $75,000 for a Lexus, Infiniti, BMW, or any other NEW luxury ride, when you can purchase a well sorted and well maintained pre-owned S Class for under $35,000 with a comprehensive warranty? I have put over 175,000 miles on two S Class Benzs, without any significant expenses other than normal service. I just spent over $7,000 on my 4 year old Grand Cherokee with under 100K on the odometer.

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  2005 Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Alex II - January 22 - 4:23 am

  This vehicle has always been a truly remarkably beutiful and classy sedan, aboive all of its competitors. The only vehicle close to it is its older models. Competitors, like Lexus and Acura and such other Japanese companies cannot touch it. Its luxury is unsurpassed. Mercedes-Benz has been the very best in upscale luxury sedans, and always will be - with the S-Class sedan.

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  Torn - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Torn - January 19 - 3:10 pm

  I absolutely loved this car. It was fully loaded. From the voice command system, to the doors that automatically close themselves I loved it. This car was great. But in the 5 months I owned it I went into the dealership about once a month and each time cost me $500 and over. Until we had a torrential rain and water seeped into the car through the water box and destroyed all electronic components located under the seat. Im torn because I dont know whether that the faulty water box was the source of all my service trips or shoddy reliability.

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  Best car ever - 1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Ned - January 13 - 12:06 pm

  This car is amazing. It rides smoothly, has the power when it is needed, and it still has the looks after 15 years.

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  Close to Perfection - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By benzlover - January 4 - 2:00 am

  After having owned both a Lexus LS400 and a Jaguar XJ8, I have finally found perfection in an automobile. This is quality and luxury at its best!!

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  Love this Car - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By bmarlin475 - January 2 - 3:50 am

  Have owned several BMWs, Jaguars and E class Mercedes and not one comes close to matching quality and the ride of this S500. Quick acceleration. Super quiet at highway speeds and comfortable on long trips. COMAND system is a bit of a pain...

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  Mercedes S430 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By saymays - December 25 - 10:00 am

  Great luxury car. All the features. Fun to drive. AMG wheel package makes the look. Smooth, quiet, comfortable. Surprisingly quick (thats from a Porsche owner). Easy to drive everyday.

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  Greatest of autos - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By pete - December 22 - 11:03 am

  Great vechile. Had front shock and strut replaced. Faced some sticker shock but for ride, control, safety, that part being air and adjustable, it was reasonable. Room, comfort, driving enjoyment 2nd to none. 40 yrs of driving experience in the mountains of NC and all, and I mean all, types of other vechile experience, this is the best of experiences.

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  2011 S63 AMG - 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By mmc6 - December 14 - 4:26 pm

  Traded in my 2008 S63 AMG for a 2011 S63 AMG, and couldnt be more disappointed, the 2011 is a dog in comparison. The pedal is squishy and sloppy with absolutely no feel under foot. The marriage between the engine and transmission is horrible, it is rough, clunky and far from smooth. Because i had a previous S63 which completely out preformed this 2011, i have a hard time driving this new one, specifically because it brings so much disappointment. This will be a money loosing short lived car for me, dont waste your money, find a clean 2008 youll be much happier.