When it comes to flagship luxury cars, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class pretty much sets the standard for status and refinement. Its interior is lavishly appointed with excellent materials and an abundance of all of the latest technology features. On the road, there's plenty of power no matter which model you select, and it's accompanied by a reassuring yet comfortable ride quality.

This big Mercedes is one of the older vehicles in the class, but it continues to lead some very impressive rivals such as the Audi A8, the BMW 7 Series and the Porsche Panamera. While each car may have an advantage in regard to a particular aspect such as performance or price, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class remains our favorite for its all-around excellence.

Edmunds’ Expert Rating

Rated for you by America’s best test team

Our verdict

8.4 / 10

A vehicle with a six-figure price tag has a lot to live up to. Using nearly every driver assist technology available, as well as plenty of traditional luxury design, the S-Class leaves little doubt that it is at the top of its class. With more performance than you might expect, a very comfortable cabin and high levels of convenience, the S-Class rises above all other flagship luxury sedans.

How does it drive?

8.0

It's not enough for a luxury car to simply wrap its occupants in leather and wood trim anymore. Today's luxury cars have to handle themselves just as well in traffic as they do at autobahn speeds. The S-Class we tested, the S 450, does exactly that with powerful and easy-to-use brakes and effortless power.

The S 450 moves smartly away from a stop and power builds smoothly. Our test car accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, which is an appropriate time for a base engine. There's ample passing power even at higher speeds. The big Benz has solid composure and decent balance even when driven with some aggression. Selecting the S-Class' Comfort mode allows some body roll, but Sport essentially dials most of it out and helps keep the S 450 almost flat through fast corners.

How comfortable is it?

8.5

Mercedes blends traditional luxury sedan elements, such as premium wood and leather materials, with modern technology to create one of the most impressive automobiles on sale today. We could do without the overpowering air freshener and its gimmicky mood scents, but this Benz is otherwise hard to top from a comfort perspective.

With the Premium 1 package, front passengers enjoy heated and ventilated seats with active bolsters and an array of massage options. Rear passengers have to go without the massaging seats (those are optional) but are still held in a high level of comfort. The Comfort drive mode provides exceptional body control and ride comfort, even at high speeds. The S 450 is nearly silent under all circumstances.

How’s the interior?

8.5

From the moment you get in to the moment you get out, the S 450 takes care of its occupants like almost nothing else. Every passenger will be hard-pressed to complain about personal comfort or space. Whether you're athletic or you have limited mobility, any seat in the S-Class is a breeze to get in or out of. All doors, though solid, are easy to open and offer a soft-close function.

The car's controls are fairly easy to figure out thanks to a logical menu structure, quick response times and ergonomically friendly controls. Only the pressure-sensitive steering wheel nubs seem unnecessary and difficult to use.

How’s the tech?

9.0

Mercedes offers a mind-boggling array of entertainment and safety features. The 12.3-inch display's crisp graphics and sheer size make it easy to discern information at a glance. The Burmester audio system is one of the best we've encountered too.

The Driver Assistance package includes enough assists to all but navigate most roads by itself. The technology is interesting but too conservative in some applications, often going well below the speed limit on gently curving roads.

How’s the storage?

8.0

The S-Class offers a nicely sized and easy-to-load trunk. The rear seats do not fold, but there is a center seat pass-through. The trunk is of course power-operated. Storage inside is ample, and most everything can be hidden away behind attractive, if slightly plasticky, wood veneer.

How economical is it?

8.5

The EPA estimates the V6-powered S 450 will get 22 mpg in combined driving (19 city/28 highway). This is about par for the class. Pleasingly, we found it easy to match these numbers.

Is it a good value?

8.0

It's true that the S-Class is more expensive than its rivals, but you do get your money's worth. The build quality inside and out is nearly impeccable, as you'd expect from a flagship luxury car. The leather work is excellent on both the dash and the seats, and not a stitch is out of place. The only disappointment is the slightly low-buck plastic used for the storage bin and cupholder covers.

Wildcard

9.0

Luxury is the overriding theme in everything you see and in everything you touch. Even the technology, some of it more useful than others, is there to provide a more luxurious and stress-free experience for all passengers, and the Benz comes across as confident and capable in nearly every situation.

Which S-Class does Edmunds recommend?

Since the non-AMG S-Class models are similarly appointed, the decision comes down to how much power and performance you desire. Odds are you'll find the entry-level S 450 to be plenty appealing. To that, we suggest adding the optional Premium package (for the extra comfort and convenience features) as well as the Driver Assistance package (its added driver safety aids can make commuting in heavy traffic less stressful).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class models

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a large luxury vehicle offered in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. The sedan is available in five main trim levels: S 450, S 560, S 560e, AMG S 63 and AMG S 65. The coupe and sedan are limited to the S 560 and AMG S 63. Feature highlights include:

S 450
Comes well equipped with:

362-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine
Road-smoothing Airmatic air-ride suspension that adjusts ride height
Panoramic sunroof
Hands-free power trunklid
Heated front seats
Mercedes Me remote control and telematics
Automated parking system

The S 450's technology features include:

12.3-inch digital instrument panel and infotainment screen
Navigation system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless charging pad
Advanced safety features

Frontal collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Automatic high-beam headlights
Lane keeping assist (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

S 560
Is similarly equipped to the S 450, but adds:

463-hp 4.0-liter V8 engine

S 560e
This plug-in hybrid variant differs by including:

3.0-liter turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine
Rechargeable battery pack and electric motor
Combined output of 469 hp plus 19 miles of all-electric range

AMG S 63
This high-performance variant spices things up with:

603-hp turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine
Performance-tuned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system
Adaptive sport suspension
Upgraded performance brakes
Sport exhaust
Unique exterior and interior styling cues
Surround-view camera system
Multicontour seats with massage functions

AMG S 65
The ultimate S-Class tops off the lineup with:

621-hp turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine
Magic Body Control suspension that scans the road ahead and counteracts body roll

Depending on the trim level, there are several option packages available:

Premium package

Ventilated front seats with massage functions
Surround-view camera system
Rear-seat power window shades

Executive Rear Seat package

Multicontour rear seats with massage functions
Reclining right rear seat

Driver Assistance package

Traffic-adaptive cruise control
Enhancements to standard safety features

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Features & Specs

S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD features & specs
S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD 4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A
MSRP	$107,450
MPG	17 city / 27 hwy
Seating	Seats 5
Transmission	9-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower	463 hp @ 5250 rpm

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S 560 4dr Sedan features & specs
S 560 4dr Sedan 4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A
MSRP	$104,450
MPG	17 city / 27 hwy
Seating	Seats 5
Transmission	9-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower	463 hp @ 5250 rpm

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S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD features & specs
S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A
MSRP	$97,250
MPG	18 city / 28 hwy
Seating	Seats 5
Transmission	9-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower	362 hp @ 5500 rpm

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S 450 4dr Sedan features & specs
S 450 4dr Sedan 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A
MSRP	$94,250
MPG	19 city / 28 hwy
Seating	Seats 5
Transmission	9-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower	362 hp @ 5500 rpm

See all for sale

See all 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite S-Class safety features:

Active Brake Assist: Warns if a front collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes if you don't respond in time.
Evasive Steering Assist: Warns if an obstacle is in the path of the vehicle and automatically steers around it if there is adequate space.
Active Blind-Spot Assist: Warns if a vehicle is in your blind spot and will attempt to prevent you from steering into that lane.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. the competition

Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. BMW 7 Series

The BMW 7 Series delivers similar comfort and refinement as the S-Class, though with a bit more of a modern interpretation. It's also more of a "driver's car," with sharper handling and added engagement. For 2020, the 7 Series gets a styling refresh and updated engines to keep it competitive with the Mercedes.

Compare Mercedes-Benz S-Class & BMW 7 Series features

Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. Porsche Panamera

In the rather staid class of large luxury sedans, the Porsche Panamera stands out as the athlete in the group. Power output throughout the lineup ranges from potent to otherworldly, and it handles as sharp as some smaller sports cars. At the same time, the Panamera manages to deliver high levels of overall comfort.

Compare Mercedes-Benz S-Class & Porsche Panamera features

Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. Audi A8

The Audi A8 is an appealing large luxury sedan. The interior is impeccably modern and fitted with an abundance of up-to-date features. But the A8 isn't quite at the same level as the Mercedes. It's held back by a smaller trunk, odd infotainment system placement, and a ride quality that tends to be too soft on the highway and too firm in the city.

Compare Mercedes-Benz S-Class & Audi A8 features

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FAQ

Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 S-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.4 out of 10. You probably care about Mercedes-Benz S-Class fuel economy, so it's important to know that the S-Class gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg to 22 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the S-Class ranges from 18.0 to 18.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Learn more

What's new in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:

Keyless entry, a hands-free trunklid and an automated parking system are now standard
Part of the sixth S-Class generation introduced for 2014

Learn more

Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?

To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the S-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the S-Class's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 S-Class and gave it a 8.4 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 S-Class is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

The least-expensive 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $94,250.

Other versions include:

S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $107,450
S 560 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $104,450
S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $97,250
S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $94,250
AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $151,600

Learn more

What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the next question is, which S-Class model is right for you? S-Class variants include S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), and S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A). For a full list of S-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Overview

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is offered in the following submodels: S-Class Sedan, S-Class Coupe, S-Class Convertible, S-Class AMG S 63. Available styles include S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 2dr Convertible AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), and AMG S 63 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A).

What do people think of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 S-Class.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 S-Class featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A)

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $152,595. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $6,782 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $6,782 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $145,813.

The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is 4.4% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A)

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $108,445. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $7,352 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $7,352 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $101,093.

The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is 6.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 30 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $98,245. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $4,765 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $4,765 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $93,480.

The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) is 4.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 8 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

Which 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Classes are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale near. There are currently 94 new 2020 S-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $99,765 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Can't find a new 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Classs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale - 7 great deals out of 9 listings starting at $16,790.

Find a new Mercedes-Benz for sale - 7 great deals out of 24 listings starting at $22,726.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class