The S-class a.ka. “Special class” is the top dog of the Mercedes-Benz sedan lineup. Time-tested and ever-evolving luxury is the Mercedes way to keep the S-class sedan where it belongs, at the top. The 2020 Mercedes S-class sedan comes with two powertrain options, both lively and super smooth. The pricing of S-class hits the headlines for topping the segment range with base S460 priced at $94,250 (MSRP).
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The Mercedes-Benz S-class sedan bests them all, staying at the top year-after-year. As the company’s flagship sedan, the S-Class expands the horizon of what a luxury sedan can be. The 2020 Mercedes s-class sedan only authenticates the pure luxury gene without any compromise with safety, comfort, and performance. Audi A8, BMW 7-series and Lexus LS offer a more dynamic styling to woo the audience but the S-class sticks with a mature and classy attitude.
The Mercedes S-class dominance in the segment is backed by the most opulent interiors, uncompromised comfort and eager performance. The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan starting price is $94,250 which touches the six-figure mark on the road. The six-figure price tag may come as a surprise for some, but the doubts will air the moment you find yourself in one.
8.0/10 Features
9.0/10 Engine and Performance
9.0/10 Fuel Economy
9.0/10 Interior
8.2/10 Exterior
9.9/10 Safety
8.6/10 Competition
9.5/10 Final Verdict
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Features
8.0/10
Mercedes offers the 2020 S-Class in multiple body styles and half-dozen trims. The center of attraction here is the S-Class luxury sedan which is available in two trims in rear-wheel or an all-wheel-drive configuration: S450, S450 4Matic, S560, and S560 4Matic. Moving up the trim ladder most notably brings in more power i.e. the base features a Biturbo V6 while the top features a Biturbo V8 engine. Mercedes has ticked all the checkboxes when it comes to the standard feature list in the S450. However, the features in the S560 is also available as options with the base, in case you desire.
The S450 can be customized with the premium package that adds multi-contour and massaging front seats, ventilated and rapid-heating front seats, a surround-view parking camera system, power rear side-window sunshades, and a cabin air purification and fragrance system. The Driver Assistance package features adaptive cruise control, automatic steering assist, evasive steering assists, front cross-traffic alert, and braking, automatic speed limit assist, automatic lane change assist, and Mercedes' Pre-Safe Plus.
Trims
S 450
S 560
MSRP (3.0L V6 Biturbo RWD)
$94,250
-
MSRP (3.0L V6 Biturbo 4Matic AWD)
$97,250
-
MSRP (4.0L V8 Biturbo RWD)
-
$104,450
MSRP (4.0L V8 Biturbo 4Matic AWD)
-
$107,450
Key Features
Heated 16-way power front seats with memory
Multi-contour and massaging front seats, and a
64-color/3-zone LED ambient lighting
Ventilated and rapid-heating front seats,
Head-up display
Surround-view parking camera system.
18” wheels
19” wheels
Burmester Surround Sound system
All-Led exterior lighting
Panorama roof
In terms of styling, the S450 differs from the S560 sedan in that it rides atop 18” wheels while the S560 gets 19” wheels. The S 560 shares the standard and optional features of the S460 sedan. Also, the S 560 is available in the coupe and cabriolet body styles. The S 560 sedan features standard multi-contour and massaging front seats, ventilated and rapid-heating front seats, and a surround-view parking camera system.
What do we recommend?
No matter what, all the S-class versions are ca[pable of swathing you in a blanket of peaceful luxury. However, we would pick the V8 version, S560, unless the all-weather capability is needed. We would add a Driver-assistance package for added safety and peace of mind.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Engine and Performance
9.0/10
The Merc S-Class comes with a choice of two engines, a 362 hp 3.0L Biturbo V6 and a 463 hp 4.0L Biturbo V8. The base version, S450 may seem underpowered but doesn’t feel so. It is not what it looks like, the S450 V6 is perfectly potent to charge the hefty body without any strain. Be it the cruising or overtaking, S450 never feels underpowered and keeps the power flowing, thanks to the excellent nine-speed automatic transmission. The gear shifts are imperceptible and snappy.
To up the tempo, the S560 is waiting to add to the excitement and almost nullifying the need for an AMG. Hurrying things up with a lot of vigor and never-ending power supply through smooth and quick-shifting transmission, S560 wraps up the discussion in quick successions.
Models
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
MSRP
$94,250
$75,450
$86,450
$85,200
Engine
3.0L Biturbo V-6
3.5L Twin Turbo V-6
3.0L Premium Inline-6
3.0L Premium V-6
Drivetrain
RWD
RWD
RWD
AWD
Transmission
9-Speed Automatic W/OD And Auto-Manual
10-Speed Automatic
8-Speed Automatic
8-Speed Automatic W/OD And Auto-Manual
Power
362hp@5,500rpm
416hp@6,000rpm
335hp@5,500rpm
335hp@5,000rpm
Torque
369lb-ft@1,600rpm
442lb-ft@1,600rpm
330lb-ft@1,500rpm
369lb-ft@1,370rpm
Reaching a three-figure mark is a piece of cake for the Biturbo’s, be it a 3.0L or 4.0L version. S-Class is blessed with a heart that resonates with effortless power delivery, making it feel light and planted at the same time. The German counterparts surely have similar traits but Mercedes S Class diminishes their stature with an efficient and comfortable drive.
How fast is the Mercedes S-class sedan?
The character of the V12s of old may be gone, but the V6 and V8 are enthralling with an effortless flow of power. Turbo lag is almost non-existent, and acceleration is smooth. Keep the right foot planted to experience the rush which you may not realize until you give a glance at the speedometer.
The V6 powered S-class charges to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds while the V8 takes the S-class to the 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configuration claim to clock the same timings off-the-line. Irrespective of the drive configuration the nine-speed automatic snaps smoothly and quickly.
Models
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
0-60 MPH
5.4 sec
N/A
5.4 sec
5.5 sec
Quarter Mile
13.8 sec
N/A
13.4 sec
13.8 sec
Top Speed
N/A
155 MPH
155 MPH
160 MPH
Engine
3.0L Biturbo V-6
3.5L Twin Turbo V-6
3.0L Premium Inline-6
3.0L Premium V-6
To be reminded, the S-Class is not a sport sedan but a flagship luxury saloon and still, if the timings do not amaze you, the AMG S-class may better the record. The Merc S-Class sedan 0-60 mph timings beat the likes of Audi A8 with the slightest of margin while the BMW 7-series match the benchmark.
What about the ride quality and driving impression of the Mercedes S-class sedan?
Enticing is the Merc’s Magic Body Control system, an adaptive air suspension system available with non-4Matic versions. Such nomenclature is truly apt as the system read the upcoming road conditions and autotunes the body to remain flat and level, cosseting and insulating the occupants from the actual road imperfections. The standard adaptive air suspension system may not predict but remains practical, does a good job of absorbing every road imperfection for brilliant ride quality.
The handling department trade-off with the ride quality has now become a thing of the past. The S-Class pushes the limits for a dynamic ride as you toggle to Spot mode. The S-class remains flat through the corners with hardly any body roll. The composed S-class, however, suffers from an insolated steering feel. But that does not mean the steering isn’t accurate, it is just that the feedback doesn’t seem real.
The Mercedes S-Class sedan has surprised us with phenomenal body control and comfortable ride. People accustomed to the traditional Merc handling will be astonished by the 2020 S-class performance. Undoubtedly, the S-Class sedan set the standards high for the luxury sedan segment.
How do the brakes perform on the Merdeces-Benz S-class?
Another department where the S-class brings vibrancy is its braking performance. With linear pedal response and real-time feedback, S-Class is transparent with an accurate, calm and consistent stopping power. Nowhere you feel the dive and irrational response.
Model
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
Brake Rotors Front
13.2"
14"
N/A
15"
Brake Rotors Rear
11.8"
13.1"
N/A
14"
Curb Weight
4542 lbs
4707 lbs
4244 lbs
4751 lbs
60-0 MPH
N/A
N/A
112 ft
118 ft
All that heft of the S-Class seem to vanish but for more athletic performance Merc offers something like E-class. The 2020 S-class does what it is intended for, keeping the comfort at zenith while it is ready to entertain you with quick maneuvers.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Fuel Economy
9.0/10
Surprisingly, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-class is economical considering the heft and size it carries. The base rear-wheel S450 returns an average fuel economy figures of 19/28/22 mpg city/highway/combined. Opting the 4Matic version drops the economy to 18/28/22 mpg. Step up to more powerful S560 it worsens the EPA estimates to 17/27/21 mpg, irrespective of the all-wheel or rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Model
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
MPG (City)
19
19
22
17
MPG (Highway)
28
30
29
26
MPG (Combined)
22
23
24
21
Fuel Capacity
21.1 gallons
21.7 gallons
20.6 gallons
21.7 gallons
Range (City/Hwy/Combined)
401/591/464 miles
412/651/499 miles
453/597/494 miles
369/564/456 miles
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/yr)
N/A
8
N/A
N/A
The BMW 7-series is a better performer on this front, with its 740i retuning the best fuel economy ratings of 22/29/24 mpg. Nevertheless, the Mercedes S-class is equipped with a 21.1 gallons fuel tank that saves you from spending long hours at the gas stations, thanks to a range of between 443 and 464 miles.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Interior
9.0/10
State-of-the-art interiors await you for the most opulent and indulging experience. The Mercedes S-Class is a true benchmark for the luxury on offer. Contemporary yet modern, the Mercedes design language is incomparable and there is hardly any automotive interior that attracts you more. From the plush materials abound every corner to the future-proof technology, S-Class sets the standards high.
How comfortable and luxurious is the S-class sedan?
The 2020 Mercedes S-Class seats five comfortably with ample room all around. Be it the front or rear, both are equally inviting with ample space to stretch. The front features 16-way power-adjustable heated seats that fit every body-type in a commanding seating position. However, its the rear where you want to be which can be optioned with comfort-oriented amenities such as footrests, massaging and power reclining seats and much more.
The large door opens wide to an immaculately crafted cabin. No-cost options use genuine leather and real wood accents, with almost every touchpoint of the highest quality. Still not satisfied with the highest quality, Merc surpasses itself with an option of Nappa Leather or the semi-aniline leather interiors.
Model
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
Seating Capacity
5
5
5
5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
39.7/59.7/41.4
37.3/58.8/41
39.9/59.2/41.4
38.3/59.1/41.5
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
37.4/59.1/34.1
37.3/56.4/38.9
38.9/57.7/44.4
38.5/57.6/44.3
Key luxury features
Heated 16-way power front seats with memory
3 years of Mercedes-me connect services
Remote Start via Mercedes me Mobile App
64-color/3-zone LED ambient lighting
ENERGIZING Comfort
Leather upholstery
KEYLESS-START & GO
Soft-close doors
Electronic trunk closer
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Illuminated door sills
Power rear-window sunshade
Household-type 115V power outlet
Illuminated entry system
HomeLink garage door opener
Brake HOLD feature
What’s the infotianment system like?
The handcrafted interior features two 12.3-inch high-resolution displays, first delegated to work as digital instrument cluster while the second assigned for the infotainment system. The 2020 S-Class dashboard seems future-proof with the setup that means business. The infotainment display offers crisp graphics and a straight forward menu structure. There are five choices of control such as a touchpad controller, physical buttons on the dash, a rotary knob, steering wheel-mounted controls and voice command.
The S-Class multimedia system offers way more features to indulge you and it might take time to master all. The standard infotainment features include navigation, Android Auto, Apple Carplay, wireless device charging, USB and Bluetooth connectivity. For the audio needs a 13-speaker Burmester sound system comes standard but if that does not satisfy the audiophile, Merc also offers a 26-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system.
Key infotainment features
The infotainment and multimedia needs are well taken care of. It is so much that to master it all, you will have to home it.
3-inch high-resolution central display
3-inch digital instrument cluster
COMAND system with touchpad controller
Burmester Surround Sound system
COMAND navigation
Enhanced voice control
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Dual USB audio ports
Bluetooth audio streaming
HD Radio receiver
SiriusXM 6-month All Access trial
10GB Music Register
Inductive wireless charging with NFC pairing
3 Years of Live Traffic Information
SD card reader
Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology
Hands-free Bluetooth interface
How capacious is the S-class truck?
The 2020 S-Class can be classified as the most practical luxury sedan as well, thanks to its near class-leading cargo space. But that is not happening any way soon, as the rear-seat doesn’t fold to open up extra cargo room. Also, if you opt for the premium sound system, a subwoofer occupies some space, leaving even lesser for the cargo. The S-Class trunk can manage only five carry-on suitcases.
Model
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
Cargo Capacity
18.7 cu.ft.
16.9 cu.ft.
18.2 cu.ft.
12.5 cu.ft.
To aid easy accessibility, S-Class comes with a handsfree trunk lid. When it comes to the internal storage options, the 2020 S-Class gets a pair of cupholders at the front. The door pockets are copious and the center armrest also hides a spacious bin. For the back, optional heating and cooling cup holders, and a refrigerator box can become a part of center console else you will have to suffice with what you have.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Exterior
8.2/10
The Mercedes S-Class retains the styling cues of the predecessor with hardly anything new for the 2020 model. The design language highlights the simplicity and relative conservatism of the automaker. A subtle silhouette with a gentleman elegance keeps us guessing how big footprint does the S-Class leaves. Unlike other luxury sedans of this class, Mercedes trivialize the S-Class. The big luxury sedan’s arrival is announced by triple-torch headlights, which presents a “Stardust” effect. The big grille of old days V12’s makes its way in every S-Class model.
The 2020 Mercedes S-Class is manufactured in Germany. The Merc flagship luxury sedan is a big vehicle with a wheelbase spanning 124.6 inches, allowing generous space for all the occupants in the front or the rear. The body width and height ensures there is no elbow-butting and hopping in/out a graceful affair. Also, the curb weight ranges from 4542 lbs to 4850 lbs depending on the engine and drivetrain. Mercedes offers 13 color options to customize your S-Class.
Model
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Lexus LS 500
BMW 740i
Audi A8
Curb Weight
4542 lbs
4707 lbs
4244 lbs
4751 lbs
Length
206.9"
206.1"
207.4"
208.7"
Width
74.8"
74.8"
74.9"
76.6"
Height
58.9"
57.5"
58.2"
58.5"
Ground Clearance
5"
N/A
N/A
N/A
Wheelbase
124.6"
123"
126.4"
123.1"
Key standard exterior features:
All-LED exterior lighting
All-LED interior lighting
Advanced instrumentation and controls
18-inch twin 5-spoke wheels
Panorama roof
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Safety
9.9/10
The Mercedes S-Class is equipped with a wealth of standard safety features, highlighted by cutting-edge technology. The optional inventory house a long list of additional safety features to ensure the highest level of safety performance. However, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-class is yet to be tested by the National Highway Safety Rating Administration or the Insurance Institue for Highway Safety. In the absence of the crash-test ratings, we feel the available suite of driver-assistance technologies should perform flawlessly.
Key safety features
Forward collision warning
Pedestrian detection
Automatic emergency braking
Driver attention monitoring
Adaptive headlights
Automatic high-beam headlights
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane departure warning
Lane keep assist
Rearview camera
Automatic parking assist.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Competition
8.6/10
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Vs Lexus LS 500
The Lexus LS 500 and the Mercedes Benz S-class belong to the same segment but they orate two different stories in reality. It is the two flagships head-to-head, one with German outlook while others with a Japanese footprint. Also, both define contemporary luxury in their own languages. Coming to the practicality, LS 500 goes down to Mercedes S-Class for space while both cars will end up at the gas station probably after the same time. The Lexus LS 500 offers supreme power and also has a shorter turning radius as compared to Mercedes S-Class, making it a more agile saloon. The 2020 Lexus LS 500 is a better financial choice.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Vs BMW 7-series sedan
The BMW 7-series is another trump from a German automaker but the ace from Mercedes wins over. If its the best you want, we have already exclaimed the exceptional S-Class. Both the cars are quite identical but the bimmer is surprisingly roomier and offers a good cargo space. Also, BMW is attractive for the price, much lower than the S-Class. Ride quality is pretty much the same but Mercedes feel better. Also, state-of-the-art technology in the Mercedes Benz S-class outperforms and justifies the premium pricing for the premium luxury sedan.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Vs Audi A8
The Audi A8 is comparable to the Mercedes S-Class in terms of rear space but the latter will be a favorite with taller drivers due to greater head and leg-room upfront. The Audi A8 driving dynamics suffer from power crunch upon initial engagement while the Merc benefits from an effortless power delivery. Moreover, the Merc S-class offers a more engaging drive than the A8. A large turning radius of the Audi A8 impedes the agility that Mercedes S-Class is able to conquer quite easily. The Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz Class are both luxurious inside with a long list of amenities for comfort. The Audi A8 will be the choice for the matter that it comes almost $10,000 cheaper than the S-Class. If that’s not your concern, Mercedes-Benz’s premium attitude is the way to go.
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Final Verdict
9.5/10
The Mercedes-Benz S-class sedan is an epitome of luxury and comfort, backed by a strong core that evolves the driving dynamics to match the sportiest. The immaculate interiors filled with opulence and future-proof technology are hardly witnessed in any other luxury saloon other than the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce, even they fell short in technology. With a focus on the rear comfort more, Mercedes S-Class is the best full-size luxury sedan. Having said that, S-Class also offers a reasonable driver-centric attitude. However, the Merc S-class sedan may not be the most practical or dynamic but when it comes to luxury there is no looking back. Only Mercedes can dethrone the S-class, no one else.
