Year

Used 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

edit

Model Type

Sedan

Year

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
NEW
2018 2017
USED
2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994

Model Type

S63 AMG
  • S63 AMG
  • Sedan
  • Hybrid
  • S65 AMG
  • Diesel
  • photos
  • inventory
  • vehicle-cards
  • car valuation
  • consumer reviews
  • editors' review
  • pros & cons
  • features
  • safety
  • more

edmunds expert review

Among some very strong competitors, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class still sets the standard for premium luxury sedans.

by the Edmunds Editors

what's new for 2013

Last year's Premium 2 options package (multicontour seats, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera and keyless ignition/entry) is now standard across all models.

vehicle overview

Luxury, thy name is S-Class. Rarely do carmakers meet the lofty standards they set in their pitches to the buying public, but in the case of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Mercedes does just that. And it's been doing this for decades with the introduction of countless innovations in comfort and...

trim levels & features

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a five-passenger, full-size luxury sedan available in S400 Hybrid, S350 Bluetec, S550, S600, S63 AMG and S65 AMG trim levels. Each is representative of a different engine, and in the case of the AMG models, a higher degree of other performance capabilities. Ever...

performance & mpg

Each 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class model comes with a different engine. The S400 Hybrid features a 3.5-liter V6 paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. It is rear-wheel drive only. Total output is 295 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque. In E...

safety

Every 2013 Mercedes S-Class comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, side airbags both front and rear, side curtain airbags, active head restraints and Mercedes-Benz mbrace emergency telematics. Also standard is the Mercedes PreSafe system, which can sense an impendin...

interior

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been the standard-bearer for luxury for several decades and the latest incarnation upholds that tradition in grand style. With exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, the cabin features top-notch materials and exacting construction. If you want something ri...

driving

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provides a ride you'd expect from a top-tier luxury sedan. The compliant suspension ably cancels out road imperfections while also keeping body roll in check, and the cabin remains as quiet as a library even over rough pavement. It simultaneously gives you that sta...

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.

next steps

Convinced that the Used 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the right car for you? Build and locate the perfect listing at a dealer near you.

see all for sale
  1. Home
  2. Mercedes-Benz
  3. S-Class
  4. Used 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
  5. Used 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN
SCROLL DOWN

related vehicle information

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Information

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Build and Price TMV®
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Incentives and Rebates
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Consumer Discussions
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Consumer Reviews
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Features and Specs
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Pictures
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Review
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2013 Ownership Costs

Mercedes-Benz S-Classes by City

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Virginia Beach, VA
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Chicago, IL
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in San Francisco, CA
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Miami, FL
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Austin, TX
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Mesa, AZ
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Arlington, TX
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Charlotte, NC
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Fort Worth, TX
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Atlanta, GA
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in El Paso, TX
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Minneapolis, MN
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Houston, TX
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in San Diego, CA
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Columbus, OH
  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes for Sale in Fresno, CA

Related Mercedes-Benz S-Classes

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Classes
  • Used Mercedes-Benz S-Classes For Sale
  • Used Mercedes-Benzs For Sale
  • Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz S-Classes For Sale
  • Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benzs For Sale

New Car Resources

  • New Cars
  • Calculators
  • Car Finder
  • Compare Cars
  • Find a Dealer
  • Get Monthly Payment
  • Incentives & Rebates

Used Car Resources

  • Used Cars
  • Appraise Your Car
  • Certified Cars
  • Selling Tips

Car Articles & Advice

  • Car Reviews
  • Long-Term Road Tests
  • Car Videos
  • True Cost to Own®
  • Research
  • Buy a Car
  • Car News
  • Automobile Forums
  • Car Leasing
  • Car Financing

Follow Edmunds

New Car Resources

  • New Cars
  • Calculators
  • Car Finder
  • Compare Cars
  • Find a Dealer
  • Get Monthly Payment
  • Incentives & Rebates

Used Car Resources

  • Used Cars
  • Appraise Your Car
  • Certified Cars
  • Selling Tips

Car Articles & Advice

  • Car Reviews
  • Long-Term Road Tests
  • Car Videos
  • True Cost to Own®
  • Research
  • Buy a Car
  • Car News
  • Automobile Forums
  • Car Leasing
  • Car Financing

Follow Edmunds

  • Home
  • Help & Support
  • About Us
  • Press
  • Share Your Success Story
  • Careers
  • Affiliate Program
  • Dealer Center
  • Your Ad Choices
  • Privacy Statement
  • Visitor Agreement
  • Membership Agreement
  • Accessibility
  • Site Map
©Edmunds.com, Inc. ©Edmunds.com, Inc.
Edmunds logo
  • Home
  • New Cars
  • Used Cars
  • Car Types
  • Cars for Sale
  • Research
  • Sign Up Sign Up
  • My Insider My Insider
Select Make
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
FIAT
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Honda
Hyundai
INFINITI
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
MINI
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Porsche
Ram
Rolls-Royce
Scion
smart
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Select Model
Select Year
Select Make
Acura
Alfa Romeo
AM General
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Bugatti
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Daewoo
Dodge
Eagle
Ferrari
FIAT
Fisker
Ford
Genesis
Geo
GMC
Honda
HUMMER
Hyundai
INFINITI
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Maybach
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
MINI
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Oldsmobile
Panoz
Plymouth
Pontiac
Porsche
Ram
Rolls-Royce
Saab
Saturn
Scion
smart
Spyker
Subaru
Suzuki
Tesla
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Select Model
Select Year
Select Car Types
Convertible
Coupe
Crossover
Diesel
Electric
Hatchback
Hybrid
Luxury
Minivan
Performance/Sports
Sedan
SUV
Truck
Wagon
Cars For Sale
All
All New Cars
All Used Cars
Car Types
Convertible
Coupe
Crossover
Diesel
Electric
Hatchback
Hybrid
Luxury
Minivan
Sedan
SUV
Truck
Wagon
Makes
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
FIAT
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Honda
Hyundai
INFINITI
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
MINI
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Porsche
Ram
Rolls-Royce
Scion
smart
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Tools & Information
Pricing & Calculators
Compare Cars
Car Loan Calculators
Car Valuation
Incentives & Rebates
True Cost to Own®
Monthly Payment Calculator
Articles & Advice
Car Reviews
New Cars
Car Dealerships
Car Finder
Car News
Car Forums
Sell My Car
Certified Cars
Long-Term Road Tests
Buy a Car
Car Financing
Car Leasing
First Impressions
Research
Car Makes
Acura
Alfa Romeo
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
FIAT
Ford
Genesis
GMC
Honda
Hyundai
INFINITI
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
McLaren
Mercedes-Benz
MINI
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Porsche
Ram
Rolls-Royce
Scion
smart
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
BACK
edmunds expert review
2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

edmunds expert review

Among some very strong competitors, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class still sets the standard for premium luxury sedans.

View All Photos

what's new

Last year's Premium 2 options package (multicontour seats, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera and keyless ignition/entry) is now standard across all models.

vehicle overview

Luxury, thy name is S-Class. Rarely do carmakers meet the lofty standards they set in their pitches to the buying public, but in the case of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Mercedes does just that. And it's been doing this for decades with the introduction of countless innovations in comfort and convenience, performance, safety and technology.

If you're lucky enough to be in the market for an ultra-luxury sedan, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class certainly deserves a spot at the top of your short list. Though it focuses narrowly on luxury, the Mercedes flagship still comes in a wide range of models. From the more fuel-efficient S400 Hybrid and S350 Bluetec diesel models to the shockingly powerful S65 AMG, there's an S-Class for everyone. Well, anyone with deep pockets, that is.

The good news for luxury sedan shoppers is there's no real way to go wrong. Alternatives like the 2013 Audi A8 represent a somewhat more technical interpretation of luxury, while the 2013 BMW 7 Series emphasizes performance. The stately 2013 Jaguar XJ, on the other hand, brings a distinctly British flavor to the mix. For the individual who desires even higher all-around performance, the Porsche Panamera is the driver's choice. In the end, though, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sets the standard by which all others are measured.

trim levels & features

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a five-passenger, full-size luxury sedan available in S400 Hybrid, S350 Bluetec, S550, S600, S63 AMG and S65 AMG trim levels. Each is representative of a different engine, and in the case of the AMG models, a higher degree of other performance capabilities.

Every model comes standard with 18-inch wheels (AMGs excepted), adaptive air suspension, active bi-xenon headlights with automatic high beams and LED running lights, front and rear parking sensors, a power trunk closer and a sunroof.

Comfort and convenience items include keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats (with heating, ventilation, massage, four-way lumbar adjustment, adjustable/active bolsters, enhanced headrests and memory functions), leather upholstery and extended interior trim, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera, auto-dimming driver-side and rearview mirrors and a power rear sunshade. Electronic features include the COMAND electronics interface, Bluetooth, a navigation system, voice controls and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a six-CD/DVD changer, HD radio, satellite radio and an iPod interface.

The S63 AMG includes those items, then adds 20-inch AMG wheels and specific styling cues as well as AMG-tuned suspension, steering, brakes and exhaust. Inside you get a sport steering wheel, shift paddles, an enhanced instrument cluster and AMG-specific leather and trim. Also included is Active Body Control, a suspension technology that reduces body roll in the corners. The available AMG Performance package increases its engine output and top speed.

On top of the dizzying array of standard features, there are plenty of stand-alone and packaged options available. The Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control as well as blind-spot and lane-departure warning systems that take evasive action in the event of driver inaction (though not in the S400).

The Rear Seat package adds four-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power rear seats with memory, heating and ventilation. The Rear Seat Entertainment package includes a dual-screen, rear-seat entertainment system and two rear seat remotes that can control all functions in the COMAND system. Also optional are power-operated shades for the rear windows, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, a night-vision warning system and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The S600 and S65 AMG get all of the above optional features standard. The S600 also has 19-inch wheels, enhanced brakes and Active Body Control. The S65 AMG receives the S63's extra performance enhancements.

Optional on every S-Class is Splitview, which allows the driver and passenger to look at different media on the center COMAND screen. It includes a COMAND remote control for the passenger.

performance & mpg

Each 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class model comes with a different engine. The S400 Hybrid features a 3.5-liter V6 paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. It is rear-wheel drive only. Total output is 295 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque. In Edmunds performance testing, the S400 accelerated from a standstill to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.

The S350 Bluetec features a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6 that produces 240 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed automatic and all-wheel drive (4Matic) are standard. In Edmunds testing, it went from zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. It returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined.

The S550 gets a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 that produces 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. Mercedes estimates it will go from zero to 60 in 5.4 seconds, while returning 15/25/19 with rear-wheel drive and 15/24/18 with AWD.

The S600 gets a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V12 good for 510 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic (required for the engine's extra torque) and rear-wheel drive are standard. Mercedes estimates it will go from zero to 60 in 4.5 seconds, while returning EPA-estimated fuel economy of 12/19/14.

The S63 AMG features a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 rated at 536 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. With the AMG Performance package, it's upgraded to 563 and 664, respectively. Rear-wheel drive and a seven-speed automated manual transmission are standard. In Edmunds performance testing, a standard S63 hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 15/23/18.

Finally, the S65 AMG has a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 that cranks out 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive are standard. Mercedes estimates it'll hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, which isn't much quicker than the S63, but that's because the rear tires can't possibly handle that much power in such a test. Believe us, the car feels a lot faster. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 12/19/14.

safety

Every 2013 Mercedes S-Class comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, side airbags both front and rear, side curtain airbags, active head restraints and Mercedes-Benz mbrace emergency telematics. Also standard is the Mercedes PreSafe system, which can sense an impending crash and automatically tighten the seatbelts and reposition the power seats for maximum airbag protection.

Optional features, depending on the trim, include a lane-departure and blind-spot warning system with automatic brake intervention, infrared Night Vision Assist and PreSafe braking, which uses the optional adaptive cruise control's radar system to sense an impending crash and automatically apply the brakes.

In Edmunds brake testing, an S400 came to a stop in a solid 121 feet. Both AMG models stopped in an excellent 111 feet, while the S350 split the distance with a 116-foot distance. Expect the S550 and S600 to be similar to that.

interior

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been the standard-bearer for luxury for several decades and the latest incarnation upholds that tradition in grand style. With exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, the cabin features top-notch materials and exacting construction. If you want something richer, you'll have to step up to a Bentley or a Rolls-Royce.

The COMAND electronics system uses a control knob and screen to work most entertainment and navigation functions, but the lack of physical dash buttons (like those in the E-Class) tends to complicate the operation of frequently used functions. The S-Class's abundance of features can also be a bit overwhelming.

The S-Class is not available in a longer-wheelbase version as are some of its competitors, but we suspect few owners will desire more than what the Benz offers. Space is plentiful in any seat and added creature comforts like heated and ventilated seats with massage are sure to please even the toughest critics, whether they're seated front or back. The available Rear Seat Entertainment package even gives those in back full control over the COMAND system. The trunk can accommodate up to 16.2 cubic feet of cargo, which is a decent capacity for this class.

driving

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provides a ride you'd expect from a top-tier luxury sedan. The compliant suspension ably cancels out road imperfections while also keeping body roll in check, and the cabin remains as quiet as a library even over rough pavement. It simultaneously gives you that stately luxury-car feel, without making you feel overly isolated from driving.

However, how an S-Class drives is incredibly dependent on which engine is chosen. The S400 Hybrid is slower and has a less natural-feeling brake pedal, but otherwise it drives just like you'd expect from a Mercedes-Benz. The S350 Bluetec feels powerful around town thanks to its diesel engine, while getting the best fuel economy and range of any S-Class (and, in fact, any other full-size luxury car). You'll also be hard-pressed to tell it's a diesel, as the engine's louder-than-normal clatter is pretty much imperceptible from inside the cabin.

Stepping up to the S550 will likely deliver all the power anyone could ever need. The twin-turbo V8 offers ample thrust while returning better fuel economy than before. The S600 turns the performance dial up even further, while the AMG models boast the handling and acceleration capabilities of much smaller sport sedans. There's never any hiding the immense size of the S-Class, but few cars can deliver this much performance and luxury in one package.

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.

or
    Forgot your password?
    Don't have an account? Sign up
    Just one more step...
    or
        By clicking Sign Up I accept the terms of the Edmunds Visitor Agreement
        Already have an account? Sign In
        forgot your password?
        Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to reset your password
          Know your password? Sign in now
          password reset email sent to

          An email has been sent with a link to reset your password.

          Know your password? Sign in now