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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  The best car I have owned in 50 yrs - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By zev - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Navigation system can still be more friendly, but the car drives itself especially when in trouble.

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  s430 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By mojojojojo - October 8 - 10:00 am

  i just got my S430 a couple days ago and i love it. the interior is amazing. it feels as if you were in first class in an air plain. the engin is very quiet and the handeling is great. the acceleration on this car is also great. for a over 3000 lb car the acceleration is very quick(6.9 sec). the nav. screen is also very big and legable. i also love the dashboard. it is big bright and clear. the tire preasure monitor is also a good thing to own. but my overall favorite thing is the driver and passenger seats. i would use them in my livingroom if i had a chance. they are like floting on a clowd.

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  Complete disapointment - 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By og4delta - September 30 - 11:08 am

  This is the worst premium car i have ever had. Seriously, it is almost comical that you set the expectations so high in such a "high end car" to be right back in the dealer every 2-3K miles and drive a loaner car. Be ready for constant check engine light on, break problems, ac problems, just to mention the most annoying and apparently commun troubles with the S-550. Last time that i took the car back for a break problem, dealer told me that MB is preparing a "permanent" solution for this situation due to the high frequency of this occurrence (rotors)... really?, at this point, one year after rolling out this model, they dont have a solution for a break fall out? Bummer!

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  Beauty and power - 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By GreyBeard - September 26 - 1:21 am

  Great smooth ride, the air suspension works. Lots of electronics and features, really too many to comprehend but some are setup you only do once.

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  How Good Can It Get - 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By car guy - September 23 - 4:36 am

  Having moved up from an E500 that I thought was a good ride, this is sheer driving bliss. The quietness, feeling of solidity, lush interior ambiance, smart Euro styling, responsiveness, fore and aft roominess all combine for a memorable driving experience. Although my choice is not heavily optioned, the long list of standard features adequately satisfies my convenience and comfort wants. The paddle shifter capability is of dubious value for my driving habits and they inadvertently get bumped on occasion. I plan for this car to be a long term keeper and knowing that MB maintenance cost is expensive, I opted for the extended warranty.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Remmy Martin - September 13 - 2:00 am

  The interior is amog the best I have ever seen.

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  First Rate - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By avanthomme - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Everything on this vehicle has been first rate! Its an absolutely amazing vehicle...uncomparable with other luxury sedans. Remarkable...The COMAND system isnt as difficult as people say it is. I didnt even have to read the manual. Trail and error...

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  Review Review - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Sut-put - September 11 - 10:00 am

  the cars performance is awesome unlike the lexus it drives with the road and it did not feel like the lexus at all. although the Navi system is a little confusing the other features beat the lexuses.

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  Hopeless - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By S.Y. - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Interior noises ( Wood panel, dash, Drivers seat, Passenger seat, Rear cabin area,... ), dealership had to replace my brakes twice, replaced airmatic suspension ( still has problem ), replaced CD changer, replaced bottom of the drivers seat twice ( Needs third one! ), Replaced Keyless entry system,.... After 17 mon. Im so sick of this Good looking junk. Im making at least one visit to the service every month. Its my third mercedes in last 3 years, and the worst one. Actually the worst vehicle I ever had. Service department is great, but couldnt fix most of rattles!!! Im 26yrs. old and this will be my LAST mercedes... I miss you, Lexus!

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  Excellent Car!! - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Cussunni - July 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is excellent, as everything you need to take care of it. By paying 75K for the car, doesnt mean that you dont have to care of it. I read people complaining about the car, but as in everything, the people that complain the most, are the ones who take care of things less.