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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  Superb Luxury Car - Feel like a King! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Dr. Warren Bruhl - April 5 - 3:00 pm

  I recently purchased this 2003 Mercedes S430 with 4matic and I was pleasantly surprised how well it handles the harsh winter snows with ample reliability and confidence. The luxury interior is wonderful and it garners great respect even from my 14 year old daughter. I love the way it feels to drive this car and I have been pleasantly surprised by the gas mileage. Driving this car makes me feel secure and confident. It is a truly an executive car driving experience.

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  The pride of owning a 2003 MB S500 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By cherylrix - March 29 - 10:00 am

  This is hands-down the best & classiest auto built. I can tell you the looks that I get while driving this car are amazing! Valet always seems to run to park my car first! They all love the chance to drive this beauty! I have put more than 10k miles on it in 4 months because I love to drive it! Handles curves in the rain with no problem.

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  S550 New Uber in Town - 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By BobObO - March 23 - 10:23 am

  For the model year 2007, this is a truly awesome car. The build quality has improved from the previous version. It is back to the glory days of the 92-99 S-Classes. Its still got plentiful innovations. Lots of safety systems. Very luxurious, seats are much softer than traditional Mercedes (pre-2000) Standard Lumbar support on seats now. Surprisingly the new generation of the Command system, like the BMW, is very differnt from the BMW because it is soo much easier to use. Harddrive Navigation makes it a lot faster to pull up info and you got the whole US map in the system already. The power is excellent at 385hp, very nicely upgraded matched by the smooth 7 speed tran. One awesome car.

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  Style and Class-The S class - 1997 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By betty from Florida - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Finest S class I have owned, and its been a great car, EXCEPT for the transmission problem. Had it rebuilt once, and acting up again, so now Ill trade it in. Too bad, otherwise Id be driving it another 5 years. Had my other s class Mercedes 10 years for one and 11 years for another. Great car otherwise.

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  hot - 1997 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By dannydyno - March 15 - 10:00 am

  the mercedes s 500 is the best car in the world

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  Lexus is so much better/bad radio - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By NOT NOT HAPPY - March 15 - 10:00 am

  Get a Lexus LS430 Ultra lux; you get way more than a stripped S500 OR S430. The transmission on the S-class stinks, and not smooth at all. To much engine and wind noise. Also, the BOSE sound system is bad, compared to the Mark Levinson. The radio is filled with annoying and constant static noise, whether on FM, AM, or WB. THey have replaced everything to solve the problem: HOPELESS. And the COMMAND GPS system: HOPELESS TO USE.

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  I WANT TO KILL MYSELF - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By 4-Matic - March 15 - 10:00 am

  Mercedes and people overrate this piece of junk. You seriously pay only for the star. THe day I bought the car, the cupholders would pop out, and the sign said "ACTIVE BODY CONTROL TOO LOW- SEE WORKSHOP!", okay. The next day, my front armrest wouldnt open (dealership wouldnt say anything), so I could not access my mercedes Motorola V60 phone. (they ended up damaging the leather, alas, they wouldnt fix it). I am now scared to turn on the car

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  Rolled The Dice - Bought High Mileage - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By john77084 - March 14 - 8:29 pm

  After turning 40 recently, I decided to properly kick-off my mid-life crisis. I was going to go with either a boat or a car. A 2004 S430 won. I found one with 114,000 miles on it on Autotrader. I suppose I got the "base" model 430, but it is absolutely remarkable. The suspension, coupled with the cars sheer size, makes for an airplane like ride (sport settings are also present). Ive taken it on 2 long road trips and been in very good spirits after arriving. Tips for Buying Used: *Comparison shop! These cars depreciate wildly. I paid too much. Find the KBB price and stick with it. *Have a genuine STAR diagnostics ran. *Beware the "stuck in park" potential

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  Like a million bucks - 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Robert - February 25 - 7:53 am

  Waited 10 yrs to responsibly afford this car. WELL WORTH IT. My wife and I treat this vehicle like a family heirloom. A recent VA-NY road trip was blissful... too short even. Getting acquainted w/ the onboard systems is a fun adventure. Upgrading to the 2009 S550 4Matic (from our 2000 E320) was like being selected from an overcrowded coach class seat by a pretty flight attendant and being led by the soft, well-manicured hand to posh first class seats. Straight forward power is embarrassingly obliging. Leather, wood and interior touches are like a private mens club lounge that even a discerning lady can appreciate. Play it cool on long runs and flirt w/ 30 mpg. NY ice/snow: no problems!

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  100% Love my S63 - 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By fzero - February 19 - 8:22 am

  I have every option available on this car. I have owned S-Class Mercedes for the past 25 years. This is my 1st 63 and I will never buy another 550. The performance package is an important option. The car does require oil about every 1000 miles. For this configuration its normal.(my R8 is every 500)