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:
Showing 81 through 90 of 554.00-
What a car! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By Zachmbenzfvr - September 9 - 2:00 amI originally had a 2000 S430, and this 2004 is leaps and bounds an improvement over that car. The Seven speed tranny is smooth, and responsive. Love the exterior and the interior. The quality improvements inside are amazing. The exterior is Black Opal, with Grey interior. The combination is beautiful.
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An awesome hi-tech rocket - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By Charles Sutnick - September 5 - 2:40 amThe new interior is awesome. Little clutter. Wonderful adjustable mood lighting all aroud the dash and four doors. Acceleration is like a rocket. There are tri-dundant ways to operate various systems like audio, navigation and telephone. The LCD navigation display is crystal clear. Entering addresses for some destinations can be difficult if you dont know the zipcode. The quality of the built-in Bluetooth phone inferface is excellent. I actually get 26.6 mpg on the highway with the cruise control set at 70 mph. Thats 2.4 mpg better than the window sticker predicts.
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2002 S 500 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By drsayad - August 20 - 2:00 amA well built car that drives much very smooth and yet powerful
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Dont forget about the oil !! - 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By Terry - August 18 - 4:10 pmWhen youre talking about fuel economy dont forget about the oil usage. I have 3000 miles on my new 2009 S63 and Ive put 2 qts. of oil in it already. Went to the Mercedes service counter and was advised--"Thats pretty good, Mercedes specs are 800 miles a quart." I thought he was kidding, but Mercedes customer service confirmed. But, a little piece of mind---"it doesnt BURN oil --it just USES a quart every 800 miles. Why dont they put this in their commercials !
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NAV System - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By pulliae - August 10 - 10:00 amNAV system does not include all highways and street. I am very disappointed with the lack of streets for all the USA. Delorme Map Co. can put every street in the USA on one(1) CD, why cant Mercedes do the same? Maybe Mercedes should contract with Delorme for navigation map CDs.
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GREAT CAR - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By KEN O - July 21 - 10:00 amNICELY PACKAGED WITH QUALITY THROUGH OUT. EXCELLENT ACCELERATION, RIDE AND ROOM. KEYLESS GO, AUTOMATIC HEAD LIGHTS, AND LIKE FEATURES MAKE THIS CAR EASY TO USE AND DRIVE.
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2003 S500 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By FRANK - July 19 - 8:36 pmExcellent vehicle. has power style and ride. I get 24 miles/gal highway. Not good in snow. Other than regular oil change very little maintenance cost. Excellent sound and heating system. Handles well.
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the 2002 S class - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By orlins - July 12 - 10:00 amThe Mercedes S is expensive. the lexus is a fine car, i have owned 3. the BMW is a different car, simply too much trouble to drive. harsh, not worth my effort. the Mercedes S is not perfect but not far from it. if you have the free bucks. I really love the big Mercedes for what it is, there are faster, better values, larger and smaller cars. However,if you can afford the ticket on the S and want the general best, buy the S. it does everything well you can find better on any one point, but the total is less then you get in the Mercedes S. the sum is unbeatable and in one move you can get all your neighbors to hate you. think of that.
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MY CAB - 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By DON - July 1 - 11:30 pm -
My Mercedes S-320 (1999) - 1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
By idlexus1 - June 28 - 10:00 amThis is a great car!! The only problem I have ahd is that I cannot get the windows to consistently roll down with the remote. Theres either a problem in the remote or somewhere in the electrical system. When I take it back for maintenance, I will get that fixed. Otherwise, NO PROBLEM!! Mercedes definitely makes good cars. The price is worth it though.
