Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021-)

 

Mercedes-Benz's iconic flagship luxury sedan was given a redesign for the 2021 model year. Along with a complete redesign, the new S-Class receives better performance over its predecessor and loads of new tech. It is offered in S500, S580, and Maybach S580 trims, with an AMG S63 version hopefully down the line. In addition, Mercedes-Benz already confirmed that a plug-in hybrid version of the new S-Class is on its way soon. For the purposes of this post, it will focus mainly on the standard S-Class. The entry-level S500 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-6 producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the mid-level S580 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 496 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both models are paired to a nine-speed automatic, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and a mild-hybrid EQ Boost 48-volt system. The launch from zero to 60 mph occurs in 4.9 seconds for the S500 and 4.4 seconds for the S580. Notable features in the new S-Class include a larger 12.8-inch center touchscreen, an optimized MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) software with facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with 3D compatibility, and navigation with augmented reality. 

Also available as options are E-Active Body Control, Interior Assist, rear-axle steering, reclining rear seats with heating and massage functions, two interactive 11.6-inch screens on the backs of the front seats, and interactive interior LED lighting. Pricing for the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class starts at $112,400 for the S500 and $119,000 for the S580. 

I am a big Mercedes-Benz guy and I love the new S-Class. It is an amazing luxury sedan inside and out, and it remains the best luxury sedan not produced by Bentley or Rolls-Royce. I have seen some examples of the new S-Class on the street and at my local dealership, and I was in awe during those moments. However, although the S-Class is a great vehicle, I am bound to see more of the new ones on a regular basis like I did with the previous model, and I have yet to see the Maybach S580 up close. The latter instance will certainly be more exciting once it eventually happens. For now, I am pretty satisfied with my given sample size thus far.