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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  Mercedes Benz S500 year 2001 - 2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By peter Ulrich - December 26 - 9:33 am

  This car in the new generation of electronics, after almost 10 years of driving still excellent.

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  New buyer /older car - 1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Chaz - December 10 - 1:03 pm

  Went from an 89 430 to a 99 420s in late September. Am astonished by all the features and how beautifully this 10 year old car was built. Although I find the brake pedal a bit soft and it travels a little too far...was told by a mechanic that this is normal? Changed the almost worn back brake pads and the pedal now feels closer to normal. Will also bleed the line for trapped air bubbles. May put a little extra air in the tires to see if it improves cornering/handling. Undoing the negative lead on the battery will render the radio inoperable (anti theft feature) and you will have to get the "code" from Mercedes. Must read the owners manual to understand how everything works.

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  VERY UPSET WITH MERCEDES - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By TOM PAPPAS - December 8 - 2:00 am

  THE CAR HAS GONE THRU 5 BATTERIES 3 MAIN COMPUTERS ALTENATOR DAMPERS, VARIUS WIRING.2 SUSPENSIONS 2A ARMS INTERIOR LIGHTS DO NOT WORK WHEN HEADLIGHTS ON NAVIGATION GOES ON WHEN YOU PUT ON THE RADIO STEERING BELT BROKE AT 18,000 MILES WOUND UP ON I SIDE WALK WITH MY WIFE IN CAR COMPUTERS WENT OUT WHILE I WAS DRIVING THRU LINCLON TUNNEL AND WHILE I WAS ON THE ROAD .SILVERSTARMOTORS IN QUEENS MAINTAINED THE CAR FOR 2 YEARS AND THEY MAID THE CAR WORSE THAN IT IS I PURCHASED THE CAR FOR SAFETY AND RELIABILITY BUT THE CAR DID NOT DELIVER I AM UPSET WITH MERCEDES AND THE DEALERSHIPS FOR SELLING THESE JUNK CARS A

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  MY 2011 550 S CLASS 4 MATIC - 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By bokewo - November 21 - 5:47 pm

  I JUST BOUGHT MY 2001 S CLASS AND IT IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE BEST CAR i HAVE EVER OWNED. i HAVE HAD MANY BMW"S AND 2 AUDIS. i LOVE THIS SO MUCH MORE. iT IS IN A CLASS BY ITSELF. i DID LOOK AT Thre new audi 8. It has this big grill which some like and some hate. From the drivers door back it is boring. From the back is it a 4,6,or 8. Who knows. The s class is just that, class.You must drive it to realize what it can do. I have the P2 package which has the most comfortable seats ever. The sides of the seats inflate as you go around a turn to keep you in your seat. I have the 20 inch amg wheels and the new magnatite black color. It stands out so much and has a young look. Nit your dads s class.

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  Luxury Family Sedan - 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Jaeger - October 15 - 10:00 am

  This car replaces my Jag XJR, which offered a back seat so small that my 5 year old complained about leg room. I no longer have to take the wifes minivan when going on a weekend family outing.

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  awesome - 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Mike Kirkpatrick - October 15 - 10:00 am

  best car Ive every owned

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  S350 2006 Best Car the Money - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By cg "man" - October 5 - 4:00 pm

  I have never driven a car so comfortable, quiet, shifting and excellent. This car has the smoothest ride of any vehicle Ive ever owned. The front and back have a large amount of roominess with all this comfort. It has plenty of power, so when you want to go fast, itll do it easily. Sleek lines, a real head turner on the streets. Just a sweet car, inside and out!

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  Straight talk on heavy repair costs - 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By reality_chek - October 4 - 1:42 am

  The bargain price of today hides expensive repairs. It has design flaws: cup holders, knee hits seat warmer, ugly center console. It has known leak issues and electrical issues. It has air suspension issues. Auto door locks and trunk flaws. Dont forget the untreated metal that rusts from the inside. Watch for rust around tire wells all up and down sides. Rust quote was $2700. The gorgeous slick design holds water. The car is now 11 so expect collapsed engine mounts, catalytic converter rattles, drive shaft flex disk...So you can plan on buying it for $6-7K and putting 6-8K into it and you will get a beautiful smooth powerful ride that originally cost $80K+ and the engine will go to 200K mi.

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  Got what I paid for - 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By Bill B - September 17 - 12:20 pm

  I wanted a business car to let clients and potential key employees know that our business is "for real", and this car fits the bill perfectly. The Lexus LS 430 has more electronics for less money, but just doesnt make the same statement. The command system is easy to use - but this is my second MB, so maybe Im "trained" already. My wife has a new Lexus with navigation, and the 2006 Mercedes navigation is easier to use and much more intuitive - not at all what I expected, based on earlier year reviews. I thought Id like the Lexus touch screen better - but the MB buttons are just so easy... Ive had zero problems or defects, and Im extreemly picky about my cars.

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  Engineering excellence? - 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  By tomel - September 11 - 8:13 pm

  Great car, bought used with 30k miles; strong engine, truly quiet, smooth, amazing ride. But, MB, masters of engineering, why oh why? The black temp adjust clip on rear passenger ventilation is missing. Cant replace $40 clip. You must replace $700 unit (before labor)! Thats engineering excellence? Think you forgot who youre engineering for. I fear for the next minor flaw. Also, cupholder is a bust and console space is nill. Love the car overall, but I marvel that a car originally selling for six figures forgets some basics.