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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  Plan to drive for quite some time..... - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By pal - November 5 - 11:43 am

  Since purchase it has been a blast to drive. Hopeful the balanced engine translates into long life as that is the only way I am every going to get my money out it! 03+ S55 probably faster due to supercharger, but I could not stand to even think what a supercharger would cost down the line. Really enjoy the machine, great ride/fast ride. I confide I still dont feel like I "fit in" an S55 but hopeful my ego will catch up with the wheels.

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  good in rain and snow - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By bowl1901 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I had a s430 and it was a fine car. In the winter the traction was adequate. The s4304matic is much better in snow and rain. The newer model is improved but lacks a cassette player that was previously included. Fuel economy is slightly less. I average 17mpg

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  good - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By charlespig - October 10 - 2:00 am

  fun to drive but the lexus LS is better. Plan to trade it in for the LS

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  2003 MB S55AMG - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By jprcars - October 5 - 10:00 am

  The best car i ever saw.very good comfort.very fast and slick.

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  Good value for a Great car - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Mirek - September 22 - 1:10 pm

  Drives very well for used car. Good mileage per gallon when carefully driven, or on highway. Good looks in gray. In sport setting transmission kicks at stops. Wiper not performing well at aouto setup - often too slow to react. Overall comfortable ride. Bit too high seatting position for driver. Once you learn all tech data it is very pleasant automobile.

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  Great Wheels - 1997 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By MRDC - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Putting the costs aside, this vehicle has been an excellent ride. The solid feel on the road with its good performance is everything one should expect from a car of this reputation. The simplicity and understated elegancy makes this a real winner. All problems were handled under the warranty and the extended warranty (a definite buy given the costs of repairs).

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  too much cheap plastic - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By harold - September 16 - 2:00 am

  the car looks cheap inside . i have owned 5 mercedes and this is the worse one for interior finish minimal wood and alot of cheap plastic, i will never buy another one if it looks like this one inside .also, a lot of annoying small problems. handling is great. harold pitts

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  Our 3rd S Class - 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By ecurry - September 14 - 9:28 pm

  Weve owned 5 MBs and to be honest I can identify with the people who have had problems. Ive had issues with MB in the past but fortunately for us this time seems to be a charm. We did however have to have the battery replaced. It seems if one has the push button start/stop feature, one has to be sure the car is off and not in standby mode or it will deplete the battery. Now to the good stuff. This car rocks!! This is the best luxury car on the road bar none. Id put it up against anything out there where luxury is concerned, including Rolls or Bentley. When compared to the uber luxury cars the new S-Class is a champ!

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  SUPERB - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By krueger - September 14 - 10:00 am

  I own S500 with Sport Package for about a year now and has been enjoying it every time I get a chance to use it. The car is a leader in its class. Its looks much better than LS430 and obviously much better than 745i. LS430 is just a regular great looking car but S500 with sport is a winner by far (add to it custom mb wheels and its look will knock you down). I have no mechanical problems and performance is superb. Maybe Command is too complicated but S500 catches up with luxury, comfort and performance.

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  2007 MBZ S550 - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Dave - August 23 - 12:13 am

  The horsepower is on par with my 02 S55, the 7-speed transmission is so smooth and accurate as to be barely there. The updated computer systems are easy to learn, my wife likes the sirius and panoramic roof. The kids like the rear seat redundant controls for the windows, front seat and sunshades -- (7) electronic shades versus (1) previously! Only two complaints -- the standard leather should be upgraded and the electronic door closers should trigger easier like the 02.