When it comes to comfort and refinement on four wheels, it really doesn't get much better than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The interior is a standout for premium design, and just about every tech feature Mercedes makes is either standard or optional. The S-Class is more expensive than its rivals, but it offers just a little bit more polish than those cars too.Read full review
Some driver assist options have questionable value
What's new
New front center airbag
Standard smartphone digital vehicle key capability
Executive Line trim renamed the Pinnacle trim
Part of the seventh S-Class generation introduced for 2021
Overview
To paraphrase a comical oligarch with a tiny giraffe in an old TV commercial, "Opulence, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has it." (Google "opulence, I has it" if you must know.) This grand sedan is a showcase for nearly every luxury, technology and performance innovation that Mercedes-Benz has concocted. Everything you touch inside is likely covered in leather, heated or bathed in disco-worthy ambient light. The screens are large and beautiful; the Burmester sound systems fit for a maestro. The plug-in hybrid powertrains either wow with their range or absurd power output. No matter which S-Class models you look at, opulence will be included. And we're not even mentioning the uber-opulent Mercedes-Maybach S 680 that we review separately.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.49 per gallon for premium unleaded in Texas.
The 2025 S-Class offers two very different plug-in hybrid powertrains. The first, the S 580e, is more of the traditional variety in terms of system layout but greatly exceeds the traditional expectations for power (it'll hit 60 mph quicker than the V8-powered S 580) and range (we managed to go 51 miles on a single charge). That it costs less than the S 580 really seals the deal. Then there's the AMG S 63 E Performance, which has a smaller battery pack and therefore less range. Its goal is absurd performance, however, with a total system output of 791 horsepower and, gulp, 1,055 lb-ft of torque. These two versions represent the 2025 S-Class at its most competitive and distinctive.
Competitors to consider
There are a decent number of flagship luxury sedans to pick from these days thanks to introductions of all-electric models, including the BMW i7, Lucid Air and Mercedes' own EQS. The BMW 7 Series is the closest to the S-Class in terms of model/powertrain lineup and overall concept — it's become less sporty over the years and a lot more like the S-Class in terms of comfort and luxury. If you are seeking that sporty bent, there's the Porsche Panamera. If you're less interested in electrified powertrains, there's the Audi A8 and Genesis G90.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Great
8.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
When it comes to comfort and refinement on four wheels, it really doesn't get much better than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The interior is a standout for premium design, and just about every tech feature Mercedes makes is either standard or optional. The S-Class is more expensive than its rivals, but it offers just a little bit more polish than those cars too.
How does the S-Class drive? Outside of AMG-tuned models, the S-Class has never been all that sporty. Comfortable and quick, sure, but not that engaging. That's changed with this latest generation. We tested the S 580, which has the V8 engine. At our test track, it helped this flagship sedan accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a quick 4.7 seconds. Acceleration is impressively smooth, and the generous low-end torque means you don't ever have to work all that hard to pass a car on the highway.
Mercedes' engineers have worked to make the S-Class feel athletic without sacrificing comfort. The air suspension keeps the car smooth and composed around turns, and it can lower up to 0.7 inch in the Sport+ driving mode to improve overall handling. The optional rear-axle steering improves high-speed stability and makes it easier to park, another win-win for performance and convenience.
Comfort
9/10
How comfortable is the S-Class? The S-Class is easily one of the most comfortable vehicles on the road. The standard heated and massaging front seats are supremely comfortable, with supportive but soft cushions and tons of adjustability. Our test vehicle had a combination of packages that included power-adjustable, heated, ventilated and massaging rear seats with a footrest. It also had heated armrests and four-zone climate control, making the rear seats just as comfortable as the front.
It's quiet and refined too. It's not quite as quiet at idle as some other sedans, but it's still relatively isolating. It's the way that the S-Class maintains that same level of isolation no matter what speed you're going. While there's a small amount of wind and road noise, the S-Class is whisper quiet even at highway speeds.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The interior is stunning to look at, but using and operating all of the S-Class' vast number of features and tech can require a bit of a learning curve. Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system uses a large screen that houses controls for many of the car's features and reduces dedicated controls to things like volume adjustment. The menu system is deep, but it's intuitive and easy to use.
That large screen is well placed and easy to reach thanks to the S-Class' excellent driving position. It's relaxed and comfortable, but surprisingly good outward visibility means you always have a good sense of the car's sizable dimensions. And big it is. The large doors open to a massive cabin with acres of legroom, headroom and shoulder room.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $5,165 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,165 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the S 580e 4MATIC trim.
How’s the tech? The S-Class has always been one of the most tech-forward vehicles on the road. All S-Class trims come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a wireless charging pad. There are a handful of USB-C ports too. The head-up display will show navigation directions, even if you're using Apple Maps. For those who use them, voice controls work well and understand natural language. Our test car was equipped with the Burmester audio system. It's not cheap, but this might be the best sound system you can get in a car today.
But it's not all about screens and sound. The S-Class is available with a plethora of driver aids. While there's no hands-free mode, what's there works smoothly and is easy to engage.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? Despite being just about the longest vehicle in its class, the S-Class ranks near the bottom in terms of cargo space. With 12.9 cubic feet, the Mercedes offers less storage than the BMW 7 Series or Porsche Panamera. That said, the available space is deep and easy to reach inside. Storage in the cabin is far better. Luxury cars usually lack small-item storage, but there are plenty of places up front to store water bottles, phones, sunglasses and more.
Installing a car seat should be relatively easy. The doors are wide, and the generous rear seat room helps with rear-facing seats, though that's true for the competition too.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Mercedes-Benz S 580 4Matic, which is what we tested, gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined. We saw an impressive 23.7 mpg on our standardized evaluation route. That's better than most other V8-powered rivals.
Value
8/10
Is the S-Class a good value? Few cars on the road today can offer the level of luxury and premium appointments as the S-Class. Everything you touch or see on the car feels like it's been carefully thought out and designed. The leather is soft, and the buttons have heft. It all feels rock-solid. Unfortunately, it will cost you. The S-Class is typically more expensive than an equivalent Audi A8, BMW 7 Series or Lexus LS 500, though none quite offer the same polish as the S-Class.
Mercedes offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain and rust warranty, average for the class. While there's also four years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance, unlike most rivals, Mercedes doesn't include any service visits.
Wildcard
8.5/10
Unlike head-turning rivals like the BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the S-Class features subtle looks that don't necessarily grab attention. While it may seem a bit conservative and sedate, that's by design and part of its appeal. Once you step inside, though, the S-Class wows with a handsome and tech-forward interior. The story gets even better once you start moving. It's not a sport sedan in the vein of the Porsche Panamera, but it handles well enough. The engine, though, is a real sweetheart. Soften the suspension, crank the radio and enjoy the buttery V8. There's a charm and joy in just cruising around in a big, comfy luxury sedan.
Which S-Class does Edmunds recommend?
We recommend the S 580e plug-in hybrid model. Although it has an even smaller trunk than the other versions, it is quicker than the V8-powered S 580, can travel an Edmunds-tested 51 miles on electricity alone, and is actually cheaper than the S 580. We would also opt for the Pinnacle Trim as its menu of truly decadent backseat creature comforts maximizes the S-Class experience.
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
The car drives great when working. Its looks great and still turn heads, but in 5 months of ownership, it has been in service 3 times. The engine light has gone on with no answer as to what the problem is. The mechanism for the door to open, broke and we were unable to open the door. Lots of quirks to the software and even key to open the doors is suspect.
I hope Mercedes learns to be … reliable.
Mechanically good; too much tech = LEMON
2 out of 5 stars
Aaron, 11/23/2023
2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
THe car drives like a dream. However, every function is controlled by a touch screen - which means there are NO tactile buttons/knobs. So you MUST constantly take your eyes off the road. All the computer controlled functions are very unreliable. The pop-out door handles are inconsistent & unreliable. The dashcam just doesn't work at all. Same with the air freshener - it doesn't work, … either. There are touch sensitive buttons on the steering wheel - which is just plain STUPID.
The center screen randomly changes screens
The "gestures" function constantly turns lights on and off and opens the sunroof randomly - even if you're not moving.
The trunk closed on my head 2x
The power seat buttons don't move - they hurt to operate the seats.
The blue tooth inconsistently connects.
The rear seat belt tensioners click and rattle (both of them).
The voice assistant is terrible and usually can't understand basic commands.
The fingerprint recognition button doesn't recognize programmed fingerprints
The Distronic (semi-autopilot) will phantom brake for no reason.
This is just a terribly executed car and NOT worth the $150k. Mercedes Benz really [non-permissible content removed] the bed with this one.
Some of these defects/problems are mere annoyances, others are downright dangerous. I'm gettiung ready to sue MB under CA lemon law - and they will lose. the car is only 2 yrs old, but has a mile long service history because of all the defects. An employee at the service dept told me the car is notorious for being problematic - "It's the worst car Mercedes has made in years, they're all coming back to us with a multitude of problems," this person told me.
DO NOT BUY THIS CAR - save yourself the hassle, get something else.
Mercedes S580 Executive Model
1 out of 5 stars
Nicole, 10/21/2023
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
Beautiful car but all the technology and service was lacking terribly. After driving for 6 months we decided to move on, it was just that bad. Then to find out what was sticker priced at $165k and a complete disappointment was worth literally half the money with less than 3500 miles. Mercedes was an absolutely awful experience.
Just don’t do it, ever. I was this close to the Maybach but … the dealer had a $50k markup, should have walked away then!
AMAZING NEW DESIGN AND TECH UPGRADE
5 out of 5 stars
William Beal, 01/16/2022
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
The new S580 is without a doubt one the finest sedans in the world. The technology is awesome and the handling is beyond anything I ever imagined. I've had more compliments on this car than any other car I have ever owned and I have owned a lot of cars.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the S-Class since its last redesign.
2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Edmunds Top Rated Luxury Sedan | Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2022
NOTE: This video is about the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but since the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a luxury sedan and our winner of the Edmunds Top Rated Luxury Sedan award for 2022. The S-Class has long been the go-to for luxury-sedan shoppers, and with a redesign last year that improved in just about every area, the 2022 S-Class once again stands above the rest. Luxury doesn't come cheap, however, and the 2022 Mercedes S-Class carries a… price tag north of $100K. It's a hefty price, but the new S-Class luxury sedan is worth it. For these reasons, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the Edmunds Top Rated Luxury Sedan for 2022.
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 S-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2025 S-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 15 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the S-Class ranges from 10.7 to 8.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Learn more
What's new in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:
New front center airbag
Standard smartphone digital vehicle key capability
Executive Line trim renamed the Pinnacle trim
Part of the seventh S-Class generation introduced for 2021
To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the S-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the S-Class's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 S-Class and gave it a 8.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2025 S-Class gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 15 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 S-Class is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The least-expensive 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $117,750.
Other versions include:
S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $117,750
S 580e 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A) which starts at $128,200
S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $128,600
AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A) which starts at $186,200
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the next question is, which S-Class model is right for you? S-Class variants include S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), S 580e 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A), S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A), and AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 9A). For a full list of S-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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