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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  Nightmare - 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Sam - June 28 - 6:16 pm

  This car has been the worst car I have ever had. The vaccum assist has gone bad 5 times and so has the GPS. Driver side seat has been repired more than 4 times. Above all, I lost complete power stering fluid at 65mph and no warning light came. I nearly died controlling the car. Tire pressure sensors have gone bad, battery, alternator, dvd on the gps. Music dvd cartridge. The only saving grace has been that the dealers repiring the car have been polite and agreed to fix the items. Now as soon as the car is out of warranty i needed engine mounts, trans mounts and control arms. German cars are not only very poorly made, they are also very, very expensive to maintain.

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  Is the S-Class Fun to Drive? - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Chas - June 21 - 10:00 am

  Yes! The S-Class is a very nice car to drive.

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  Solid and safe car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By NEWS - June 10 - 8:23 pm

  Smooth ride, fun to drive. Firm and comfortable. This car is much better the the BMW 7 series that I turned in. In addition, the 4Matic makes BMW or Lexus look bad.

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  SHIFTING IS ROUGH - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By JIM S55 - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I HAD THIS CAR FOR 6 MONTHS BEFORE TURNING IT IN FOR AN S600. THE S55 WAS A BLAST TO DRIVE, BUT IT WAS A BIT TO SPORTY FOR SUCH A LARGE SEDAN. IF YOU HIT THE GAS FROM A STOP, A LOT OF TIMES IT WOULD BUCK, AND THE SHIFTING WAS NOT NEARLY AS SMOOTH AS I FELT IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN. JUST A PERSONAL OPINION. THE S600 IS AMAZING! IT APPEARS TO HAVE MORE POWER,( 2 TURBOS) SMOOTHER SHIFTING, AND EVERY TOY THAT MB MAKES. SUEDE HEADLINER, PHONE, 4 SEAT HEAT/AC/POWER, WOODPKG, KEYLESS GO, VOICE COMMAND...ALL STANDARD. IF YOU CAN SPEND THE EXTRA $20K, GO FOR THE 600.

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  Finally a rael Mercedes - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By kappio - June 2 - 7:26 am

  I have owned 2 Mercedes cars in the past and by far the new S-class is the best car this company has put out. Everything in this car screams luxury and perfection. The ride is super smooth and even as the driver you feel like youre being chauffeured. The cabin is extremely quiet and the interior is designed to be elegant and clutter-free. The computer console is very intuitive and much more user-friendly than BMWs system. Ive only owned the car for a week, so I can not say much about the reliability. But from what I have read, Mercedes has stepped up their game and this new generation of the S-class is supposed to be very well built. I own the s550 4matic an get about 16mpg in the city.

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  Chic and Smooth - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Jessica - May 30 - 3:40 pm

  The best car I have ever owned! Its smooth and gets pretty good gas mileage. It has room in the back and front! Great technology. I like the backup camera and parking sensors. Not to mention those great massage seats and the panoramic roof. This car is sure to turn heads anywhere you go!

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  THE REAL LOW DOWN - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By SCR8POBOY - May 24 - 10:00 am

  JUST A AWESOME VEHICLE IN IT SELF CONFIDENT STRIDEFUL AND FULL OF LUX. JUST LIKE BEING IN THE LIVING ROOM OF MY HOME COMFORTBLE AN SATISFYING, ABLE TO COMPEHEND THE CAR IN A EASY SAFE MANNER WHILE DRIVING IT, I ENJOY EVERY THING ABOUT IT!

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  Straight Line Speed and Comfort - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By S600 Owner - May 16 - 2:53 am

  Have owned the car for about a month now and I am no sure I still love it. The straight line speed is second to none, I have driven ferraris that wont throw you back in your seat like this does. Being able to spin the rear-wheel at any speed under 50mph is incredible. Burnouts are as simple as turning off traction control and giving half throttle. However, the handling does not compare to the BMW 760Li I own. The understeer is so overwhelming it is almost dangerous, you are stunned the first time you take an off ramp at 50 and the tires begin to squeal yet the car keeps traveling in the same direction-scary. Also, driving in the rain is asking for trouble, traction control MUST stay on.

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  My Benz - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Willie - May 12 - 4:56 pm

  I love this car. It is a beautiful vehicle with lots of power. It is great for running the kids around to take my wife out for the evening.

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  Looks Good but Wears Poorly - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By rsalinger - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I just traded my 2000 S500. During the 60,000 miles I drove it, it suffered from too many expensive defects for me to recommend the car. I had the fuel tank pulled at 14000 miles, the computer replaced at 40000 miles, the mass air flow censor at 60000 miles and the entire steering system - rack, pump etc at 50000 miles. All in all too many repairs.