Luxury cars claim to be the envy of the world's elite, but those cars envy the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Acclaimed by CEOs, heads of state, or just those who want to feel like one, the combination of power, technology, luxury, sophistication and exacting attention to detail leaves the S-Class without equal. Are there alternatives? Yes, and the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8 and Lexus LS are all impressive, yet perpetually a step behind the S-Class. This flagship sedan, coupe and new drop-top Cabriolet offer driver-assist aids and luxury trappings that are second to none, justification enough for its nearly $100,000 base price. In its most elite form, the V12-powered AMG S65 impresses beyond reason, while the eco-friendly super-rich can opt for the S550e plug-in hybrid.
There's the addition of the new coupe-based S-Class Cabriolet convertible, of course. On top of that, sedans get a new 9-speed automatic transmission, new 18-inch standard wheels, some reconfigured color combos, and a newly available Magic Sky Control panoramic glass roof.
There are no major changes to the Mercedes Benz S-Class for 2016. The AMG nameplate is now a prefix as opposed to a suffix.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class expands its 2015 lineup with three V12 models – the stately S600 Sedan and the ferocious, range-topping S65 AMG Sedan and Coupe, – and a plug-in hybrid that arrived in early 2015. Other than a touch-pad controller replacing the keypad, the other, still-fresh models remain largely unchanged.
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an all-new iteration of Germany's most revered full-size luxury sedan.
Changes for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class are minor and include the addition of the Premium 2 package (PARKTRONIC park assist, KEYLESS GO, rearview camera, Active multicontour front seat with massage) to the S350 BlueTEC 4Matic, S00 Hybrid and S550.
Diesel power comes to the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan with the introduction of the new S350 BlueTEC sedan. The S550 receives a new 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged engine producing more power and better fuel economy than last year's 5.5-liter V8.
New for 2010 is the S400
HYBRID model. Aesthetically, the S-Class receives a mild facelift and a few interior enhancements, including an innovative split screen interface shared by the driver and front passenger. New Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilization further improve the sedan's surefootedness.
New for 2009 is the addition of paddle shifters to the S-Class' steering wheel, while the S550 receives heated and ventilated front seats, a power trunk lid, wood and leather steering wheel and new 18-inch wheels. The optional Distronic Plus system now includes Blind Spot Assist and Park Assist. Among Park Assists many features is the ability to inform the driver if the vehicle will fit into an intended parallel parking space.
A new AMG model, the S63 AMG, joins the lineup. The redesigned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system has been made lighter and more fuel-efficient.
The all-new S550 improves upon the outgoing S500 with a more sculpted exterior, more elegant interior, more powerful V8 engine, roomier backseat and a host of impressive new technologies.