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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  Quality Vehicle with minor problems - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Cyrus Jan - September 5 - 4:00 pm

  Brakes squeak. Got the pads changed under warranty. Still sqeaking. Dealership says that this is becuase of asbestos being missing as per Federal requirments. Front ends of the suspension rattle when driving over bumps. Dealership says that this is because the car lowers and is supposed to act like that. Other than that, excellent car.

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  Benz after others - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By mike - August 25 - 10:06 pm

  I love the new S550.The interior is well layed out and compact. You dont have buttons all over the place. The ride is gorgeous as youd expect, and I dont find anything out of place or an afterthought like the Audi A8. The monitor is built in the design not like a cheap afterthought. Face it, not many of us who own these cars go mad around race tracks, so comfort, drivability, looks, interior layout are more important. They still have to have the element of fun to them and the Mercedes sure does. It came down to BMW7 S550, A8 and IS460. being familiar with all, the S550 was my clear winner with the BMW750 close behind.

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  Excellent ride, comfort, safety - 1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By HeyJohnnyK - August 11 - 12:40 am

  Bought this car with 48K miles, now have 60K. First S-Class Ive owned. Last of the S-classes where Mercedes only used top quality materials. Doors close like a vault. This is our mini- van alternative. Ive been driving this for 18 months and still puts a smile on my face every time and feel safe putting my kids in it. Double pane glass makes for incredible quiet ride. Car is 500lbs heavier then newer models, but drives nicer. I have never experienced more comfortable seats, with their separate bottom cushion controls. No mechanical issues. Fixed close-assist motor and wheel sensor. For road trips, nothing better. Arrive relaxed. Sitting in traffic in silent cabin, no problem. Just buy one

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  s430 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By DoubleT - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 2001 LS430 for the S430. The Lexus was a little too pretty, could not corner and terribly boring to drive. The S430 now has 18000 miles on it, no visits to the dealer except for one oil change. It drives like a BMW with the quality of the Lexus.

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  Mercades S-430 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Grand Oganesyam - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Geart car to drive. very fast a V8 engine

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  what a mess - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By my car - August 2 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving a mercedes for 30 years. Ordered my 2002 in July 2002.Added special lights ,built in phone. Paid 75000.00 cash and boy did I get a surprise in Oct.2002 when I got the car. So many blind spots, cheap made, very little leather and I want even get into the problems I have had. I am ashamed of the poor excuse for the navigation, no one told me about the 10 cd,s you had to buy.Bought all while traveling and then the whole system gave out.Plastic bumpers?

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  Not worth the money - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By western6 - July 22 - 12:10 pm

  This is my third Benz, first and last S class. The handling on this car is poor compared to my 05 E class with AMG package. The seats are not supportive in spirted driving. The panorama roof does not have a one touch feature. My old car had an altimeter on the navigation, this car does not. I will most likely will try somthing else next time.

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  s-class Sport pkg is a piece of machine - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Thuan - July 12 - 10:00 am

  The S430 with the sport pkg is just did it for me. Love it the minute driving off the lot. I couldnt afford the s500 sport or the s55 but this vehicle enough for my pocket.

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  Awesome Car!!! - 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By mjeagent - July 11 - 11:01 pm

  Traded my 2012 Audi A8L. My Audi was a great car but when you compare it to the look of the 2012 S Class AMG there is no comparison. Then you add the engine comparison and the decision is easy. Only have 200 miles in the car but I can tell you that it is built like a tank, drives like your on glass, and sounds like a dream - both the exhaust note and the bang & olufsen stereo system. Thats actually one option that one should not pass up. The sound system is AMAZING. Ive had 40+ cars with all sorts of sound systems and this one blows all others away. The price is one that you take with a lump in the throat as the Audi A8 I was trading had a sticker price of $104,000 - $50k lower than S63.

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  Im Happy - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Doc1 - July 3 - 7:23 am

  Ive owned the following , LS400, (2) Q45s Qx4, 528e, Caddys and Lincolns. This my 7th S class Im very happy . it gets plenty of looks and so far in 8 months I put 15k miles on the car. Now Im starting to see little expensive things like transmission seals, control arms, and when we very cold days like below 28 degrees the pump for the suspension stop working.luv the sound system, but it sways a little at high speeds. Ive never driven any other car @ 130 mph. Gas mileage stinks in the city. Nevertheless I plan to buy another one when I can.