2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

　　

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

byCameron RogersManager, News

　　Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at zzdcar include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).

　　The S-Class has long been Mercedes-Benz's flagship vehicle platform to showcase the company's capabilities in luxury, comfort and technology. For 2021, Mercedes-Benz has comprehensively redesigned the S-Class and looks to continue the tradition of innovation and elegance that has long defined this iconic sedan and keep it ahead of rivals such as the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Porsche Panamera.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 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 $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$196/mo  for S-Class S 500 4MATIC

　　S-Class S 500 4MATIC

　　S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) - $109,800 MSRPS 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) (Most Popular) - $116,300 MSRPS 560 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) - $131,400 MSRPS 560 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) - $140,000 MSRPAMG S 63 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) - $173,100 MSRPAMG S 63 2dr Convertible AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) - $185,400 MSRP

　　vs

　　$197/mo

　　Avg. Large Car

　　The most recognizable changes can be seen inside the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It flaunts a larger touchscreen and fewer physical buttons, proof that Mercedes has delved further into using technology to enhance the comfort and driving experience. Even with a tech-heavy appearance, there's still the opulence and attention to detail S-Class buyers expect. Of course there are many, if not more, changes beneath the subtle metal restyling. A retuned suspension, more sophisticated advanced driver aids and an impressive rear-wheel steering system are among them. 

　　With its full redesign, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class leaves no doubt that it offers one of the most technologically advanced and refined driving experiences on the market. Bristling with technology that provides not only comfort but also intense personalization as well as safety, the S-Class again sets a new standard for a luxury sedan. It might take some buyers a bit of time to adjust to the radically new interior, but our time in the new S-Class has left us deeply impressed.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar 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

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.5/10

　　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 the new model. The V8 engine makes more power than before, thanks in part to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Besides improving fuel economy, the 48-volt system fills in the power gap before the turbos build boost and further smooth the shifts from the nine-speed automatic. The generous low-end torque means you don't ever have to work all that hard to pass a car on the highway.

　　But engines have never been the S-Class' issue. Mercedes' engineers have worked to make it feel more 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

9.0/10

　　How comfortable is the S-Class? The outgoing S-Class was already one of the most comfortable vehicles on the road, so the fact that the new model doesn't feel wholly different while cruising isn't a bad thing. 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. MBUX, Mercedes' infotainment system, gets an update with a larger screen that houses even more 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. Large doors open to a massive cabin with acres of leg-, headroom and shoulder room.

　　

Technology

9.0/10

　　How’s the tech? The S-Class has always been one of the most tech-forward vehicles on the road. While the new model doesn't offer anything vastly different than before, the in-car tech and driver aids have undergone a bit of an update and refinement. 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 $6,730 Burmester audio system. That'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

8.0/10

　　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, hand sanitizer 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.

　　

Fuel Economy

8.0/10

　　How’s the fuel economy? The Mercedes-Benz S 580 4Matic has an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 20 mpg (17 city/25 highway). We saw an impressive 23.7 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation loop. That's better than most other V8-powered rivals thanks in part to Mercedes' EQ Boost mild hybrid system.

　　

Value

8.0/10

　　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. A base S 500 4Matic starts at $110,850. Stepping up to the V8-powered S 580 4Matic brings it to $117,350. Both are more than the equivalent Audi A8, BMW 7 Series or Lexus LS 500, though none quite offer the same polish as the S-Class. Our loaded tester had an MSRP of $147,590.

　　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 zzdcar recommend?

There's nothing wrong with selecting the turbocharged six-cylinder, but sedans at this price level really should have a powertrain that's as impressive as the rest of the vehicle. For that reason, we'd select the S 580 and its V8. Most buyers will be served well by the base Luxury Line trim, which features a rock-star lineup of desirable features. However, if you want backseat passengers to experience the same luxuries enjoyed by those in front, the Executive Line is the way to go.

　　

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a large luxury vehicle sold in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. The sedan is completely redesigned for 2021, while the coupe and convertible are essentially carried over from the previous generation. Since little has changed for the coupe and convertible for 2021, be sure to check out last year's review for a full list of standard and optional features for these models.

　　The 2021 S-Class sedan is available with your choice of two powertrains. The S 500 is driven by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (429 horsepower, 384 lb-ft of torque) paired to a mild hybrid system. The hybrid component can provide an extra boost of 21 hp and 184 lb-ft under certain conditions. The S 580 also uses this mild hybrid system, but this time it's paired with a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (496 hp, 516 lb-ft). Both models feature all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.

　　New for this year are three trim levels. The Luxury Line and AMG Line are available with either engine, while the range-topping Executive Line can only be optioned on the S 580.

　　Luxury Line

　　Regardless of engine choice, the base S-Class trim is known as the Luxury Line. It has a vast set of standard features that include:

　　19-inch wheels Power trunklid Panoramic sunroof Air suspension (can raise or lower the ride height of the vehicle) Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut) 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster Dual-zone automatic climate control with fragrance atomizer Ambient interior lighting Heated, ventilated and massaging front seats Leather upholstery (S 500 only) Premium leather upholstery (S 580 only) Power front and rear sunshades Navigation system with augmented reality driving directions 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality Wireless charging pad 15-speaker Burmester audio system Eight USB-C portsThe S 500 also comes with a comprehensive list of advanced driving aids, such as:

　　Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Mercedes and the car in front) Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse) Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane) Automated lane-change assist (guides the vehicle into the next lane when the turn signal is used) Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios) Evasive steering assist (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance) Safe exit assist (alerts passengers when opening a door into traffic approaching from behind) Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking) Rear and cross-traffic automatic braking (applies the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle, or a vehicle or pedestrian crossing in front of the vehicle) Front-mounted dashcam (records an image of the road ahead, which can be reviewed at a later time) Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention) 360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Mercedes-Benz and its surroundings for tight parking situations)AMG Line

　　The AMG Line is a sporty appearance package that starts with Luxury Line equipment and adds:

　　Sporty front and rear bumpers Choice of 19-, 20- or 21-inch wheelsExecutive Line

　　Available only with the S 580 engine, the Executive Line adds:

　　Rear-wheel steering with 10 degrees of turning ability Four-zone climate control Heated steering wheel Heated front and rear armrests Rear neck heaters Heated, ventilated, massaging and power-adjustable outboard rear seats Rear seat memory settings Rear entertainment system Rear wireless charging pad Rear control panel Rear airbagsThe S-Class is available with a number of packages and stand-alone options. These include:

　　Warmth and Comfort package (Luxury and AMG Line only) Heated steering wheel Heated front and rear armrests Heated, ventilated and power-adjustable outboard rear seats Rear seat memory settings 3D Technology package 3D instrument panel Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield) Night package (AMG Line only) Black-painted exterior accents Rear-wheel steering with 4.5 degrees of turning ability (AMG Line only) Heated steering wheel 30-speaker Burmester premium audio system Wood and leather steering wheel Upgraded premium leather upholstery Wood, metal or piano black veneers

　　

2021 S-Class Highlights

Type: SedanCoupeConvertibleAMG S 63Sedan

　　Trim: S 500 4MATICS 580 4MATICS 500 4MATIC

　　

Base MSRP	$109,800
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$196/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles