2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
What’s new
- Keyless entry, a hands-free trunklid and an automated parking system are now standard
- Part of the sixth S-Class generation introduced for 2014
Pros & Cons
- Ample power with any engine choice
- Opulent interior with plenty of customization options
- A smooth ride no matter the road surface
- Silent cabin that insulates occupants from the outside world
- Not as engaging to drive as some rivals
- Some driver assistance options have questionable value
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Edmunds Suggested Price2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
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.
Our verdict
8.4 / 10How does it drive?
8.0The 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?
8.5With 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?
8.5The 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?
9.0The 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?
8.0How economical is it?
8.5Is it a good value?
8.0Wildcard
9.0Which S-Class does Edmunds recommend?
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
Sponsored cars related to the S-Class
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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
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.
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.
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.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class a good car?
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
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?
Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class a good car?
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 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $104,450
- S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $107,450
- S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $94,250
- S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $97,250
- AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $151,600
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
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 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), and AMG S 63 2dr Convertible 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 $5,593 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,593 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $147,002.
The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is 3.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 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 $7,792 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7,792 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $100,653.
The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) is 7.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 29 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 $9,428 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9,428 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $88,817.
The average savings for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) is 9.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 9 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 91 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 - 2 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $11,637.
Find a new Mercedes-Benz for sale - 1 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $24,363.
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