Imagine, for a moment, the hushed anticipation that accompanies the arrival of a new Mercedes S-Class. For decades, this flagship model has been regarded as a benchmark, a rolling testament to automotive luxury and engineering prowess, often setting the standard against which others are measured. Yet, as brilliantly showcased in the accompanying video, the latest iteration, a significant mid-life facelift, presents a nuanced picture, prompting a closer examination of where tradition meets modern innovation. This deep dive explores the refreshed S-Class, meticulously evaluating its design, technology, and driving dynamics, ultimately discerning if its legendary status remains firmly intact or if subtle compromises have been made in its pursuit of perfection.
The Evolving Exterior: A Study in Refinement and Critique
The visual identity of a luxury sedan is paramount, projecting an aura of sophistication and commanding presence on the road. With this new Mercedes S-Class, approximately 50% of the vehicle’s components have been updated, making this facelift the most extensive in Mercedes history. Most notably, the entire front fascia has been revised, including new headlights that now incorporate distinctive three-pointed star daytime running lights, a detail that is often appreciated by brand enthusiasts. However, critical observation reveals a redesigned grille, particularly on the sporty AMG Line model, which, with its blacked-out elements, can be perceived as lacking the opulent luster expected from a vehicle of this caliber.
Conversely, the chrome-finished grille option is observed to elevate the aesthetic, allowing the subtle star patterns within the grille to become more apparent, thereby reinforcing its premium appeal. Attention is also drawn to the integration of essential autonomous driving sensors; specifically, the radar system often necessitates a visible section that, in some configurations, can detract from an otherwise seamless design. Moving along the side, the changes are less dramatic, primarily consisting of new 20-inch alloy wheel designs and enhanced camera units for the upgraded sensor suite. It is widely felt that the S-Class inherently suits chrome accents around its window lines, making the blacked-out trim of the AMG Line a contentious stylistic choice for many.
Door handles, an often-overlooked yet crucial tactile element, have also been noted for their spring mechanism, which some liken to an unsatisfactory handshake, diminishing the initial sense of luxury. The rear of the car, however, has undergone more substantial alterations, with all non-metallic components receiving a redesign. This includes an updated strip across the trunk lid and new light clusters featuring integrated three-pointed stars, which collectively contribute to a more modern and upscale appearance compared to its predecessor. While the exaggerated exhaust surrounds might suggest an overtly sporty demeanor, the visible presence of actual exhaust pipes beneath them ensures a degree of authenticity, often making the side profile the most harmonious visual aspect of this impressive vehicle.
Stepping Inside: Infotainment, Materials, and Unrivaled Comfort
Upon entering the cabin of the Mercedes S-Class, the most striking modification immediately becomes apparent: the completely revamped dashboard, affectionately termed the “Super Screen” by Mercedes. This innovative design integrates a large central entertainment screen with a separate, dedicated display for the front passenger, a configuration that is now standard across the range. Such an expansive digital landscape represents a significant evolutionary leap from the previous layout, and it is widely considered to offer a more coherent and engaging user experience than some competitive offerings, such as those found in the BMW 7 Series.
The digital driver’s display further enhances the cabin’s modernity, presenting information with exceptional clarity and allowing for intuitive navigation through various menus and options. A newly designed steering wheel is also observed, incorporating a blend of physical controls for functions like volume and cruise control distance, alongside touch-sensitive buttons for display interaction. While the physical controls are generally welcomed for their tactile feedback, the touch-sensitive elements can sometimes be perceived as a less efficient interface, occasionally demanding more precision than desired during driving. Substantial changes have also been made to the interior materials and finishes; the door structures remain consistent, yet the availability of a wider array of trim colors and designs, including a sophisticated green option, greatly enhances personalization opportunities.
Although a vegan interior option is now available, many purists would argue that the quintessential S-Class experience necessitates the traditional richness of leather upholstery. The center console has also been entirely redesigned, now featuring a 50-watt ventilated wireless charging pad for mobile devices, ingeniously preventing overheating during use. Practicality is further considered with the inclusion of multiple USB-C ports, ample cupholders, and cleverly integrated storage solutions, though the glovebox is surprisingly shallow for such a large vehicle. While the seat structures themselves are unchanged, the materials and cushioning have been updated, yet some find the overall firmness to be less plush than the seats offered in the BMW 7 Series.
Material quality within the cabin is a subjective area, with certain plastic elements, particularly in lower visibility areas, occasionally feeling less premium than one might anticipate from an S-Class. This observation is often accompanied by a slightly hollow sound upon tapping these surfaces, which can subtly diminish the overall sense of opulence. Nevertheless, the sophisticated new Mercedes infotainment system, known for its sharp graphics, vibrant colors, and logically organized menus, is frequently lauded as a standout feature, surpassing the complexity often associated with BMW’s interface. Essential car functions, including the convenient ability to disable driver aids with a single dedicated button, are readily accessible, ensuring a streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Ambient lighting is also taken to an artistic level, offering an “infinite array” of color choices that transform the cabin’s atmosphere. Though physical climate controls have largely been superseded by screen-based interfaces in many modern vehicles, those in the S-Class are positioned for relatively easy access near the driver, complementing the traditional, appreciated physical vent direction controls. Despite its many advancements, the infotainment system is sometimes noted to exhibit a minor degree of lag, a characteristic that might be unexpected in a newly developed high-end luxury vehicle. In the rear of the S-Class, changes are relatively minor, primarily affecting the center console design and air vents, which now offer heated or cooled cupholders and dedicated climate controls.
Optional larger rear infotainment screens are available, though they are criticized for retaining a thick bezel that can make them appear somewhat dated. For those opting for the two-seat “first-class style” rear configuration, impressive features like a reclining seat with a heel rest are provided, offering an unparalleled level of passenger comfort. However, the fixed wireless charging pad in the rear can be seen as an intrusive appendage when not in use, occupying valuable space. The inclusion of clever remote controls, akin to a mouse for the rear screens, significantly enhances usability, effectively addressing the challenge of interacting with distant touchscreens. Furthermore, convenience is elevated by features such as adjustable sun blinds and the option for a refrigerator, reinforcing the car’s commitment to passenger comfort. The boot capacity is generous, offering 530 liters in the non-plug-in hybrid model; however, this capacity is reduced to 345 liters in the plug-in hybrid version due to the placement of its battery components.
Technological Marvels and Driving Dynamics
The Mercedes S-Class is a veritable showcase of advanced automotive technology, integrating numerous features designed to enhance safety, convenience, and the overall driving experience. One notable innovation is the high-definition cameras strategically placed within the rear screens, enabling passengers to participate in Teams Meetings directly from the comfort of the car. This feature underscores the vehicle’s role as a mobile executive lounge, allowing for productivity even on the go. The focus on comfort extends to an array of heating elements, including heated seats, a heated steering wheel, heated central armrests, heated door armrests, and even heated front seatbelts, which incorporate metallic elements to provide warmth, representing an exhaustive pursuit of passenger coziness.
An advanced air filtration system with an ionization function is also integrated, capable of completely purifying the cabin air in just 90 seconds, thereby ensuring a consistently fresh environment for occupants. Safety provisions are exceptionally comprehensive, with an astounding 16 airbags distributed throughout the interior, providing extensive protection in the event of a collision. For sophisticated driver assistance and autonomous capabilities, the S-Class is equipped with eight exterior cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasound sensors. These components work in concert to facilitate highly advanced parking features, allowing the car to identify and execute parking maneuvers, even spotting suitable spaces well in advance of reaching them, a convenience that could genuinely transform daily driving.
The augmented reality heads-up display is a particularly impressive feature, overlaying navigation directions directly onto the road ahead, creating an intuitive and immersive guidance system. However, this technology does necessitate a sizable cutout in the dashboard, which, to some, can resemble a utility basin, slightly disrupting the interior’s aesthetic flow. The driving experience of the new S-Class is consistently lauded as impeccable, embodying the “magic carpet-like feel” for which the model is renowned. The air suspension system, which remains unchanged from the pre-facelift version, is expertly tuned to absorb road imperfections, delivering a ride quality that is often considered superior to its competitors, including the BMW 7 Series.
Engine options are diverse, including diesel, petrol, two plug-in hybrids, and, for the USA market, a potent V8 petrol engine. The plug-in hybrid model, featuring a straight-six engine combined with an electric motor, produces over 500 horsepower, offering robust acceleration and the capability to travel up to 100 kilometers (approximately 60 miles) on electric power alone. This allows for emission-free commuting for many users, and the seamless transition between electric and combustion power is often commended for its smoothness and quietness. The car’s inherent soundproofing further contributes to an isolated, serene cabin environment, ensuring occupants remain cocooned from external disturbances. Furthermore, the innovative cloud-based suspension system, which communicates road conditions to other S-Class vehicles, represents a pioneering step towards predictive comfort, allowing the suspension to proactively adapt to upcoming bumps.
While the S-Class exhibits commendable handling for its size, offering precise steering and the option of adaptive roll control to minimize body lean in corners, its core strength undoubtedly resides in its unparalleled comfort and technological integration. The vehicle’s advanced cruise control system, which can autonomously manage speed and maintain distance from other vehicles, even offering lane-change assistance upon indication, significantly reduces driver fatigue on long journeys. The robust suite of cameras and sensors, although constrained by current legislation in some regions regarding full autonomous driving, provides a foundation for future capabilities, hinting at a truly hands-off driving experience eventually becoming a reality. Even with its exceptional drive and tech, the new Mercedes S-Class encounters some challenges, as certain aspects of material quality and exterior design may not fully align with the stratospheric expectations typically associated with this flagship model.
Luxury’s New Apex: Your S-Class Questions Answered
What is the Mercedes S-Class known for?
The Mercedes S-Class is a flagship luxury sedan recognized for its high standards in automotive luxury and engineering. It often serves as a benchmark against which other luxury vehicles are measured.
What are some of the most noticeable updates inside the new S-Class?
Inside, the most striking change is the revamped “Super Screen” dashboard, featuring a large central entertainment screen and a dedicated display for the front passenger. It also includes a new steering wheel and expanded customization options for interior materials.
Does the new S-Class offer different engine types?
Yes, the S-Class comes with diverse engine options, including diesel, petrol, and two plug-in hybrid versions. A potent V8 petrol engine is also available in some markets, like the USA.
Can the S-Class run on electric power?
Yes, the plug-in hybrid models of the S-Class can travel up to 100 kilometers (about 60 miles) purely on electric power. This allows for emission-free commuting for many users.
What advanced technology does the S-Class have to help with driving and parking?
The S-Class is equipped with an augmented reality heads-up display that projects navigation onto the road ahead, and it has multiple cameras and sensors for highly advanced parking features. It can even spot suitable parking spaces and assist with maneuvers.
