2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Pros
- Ample power with any engine choice
- Opulent interior with plenty of customization options
- A smooth ride no matter what the road surface
- Silent cabin that insulates occupants from the outside world
Cons
- Not as engaging to drive as some rivals
- Some driver assistance options have questionable value
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which S-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
As the current generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class reaches the halfway point in its life cycle, it receives the customary refreshening to keep it competitive against newer rivals. Those include the BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera and next year's redesigned Audi A8. To its credit, the S-Class would have remained a top pick in the premium luxury sedan class without the subtle styling tweaks and added features. That's how good it already was.
A slightly more affordable S 450 model debuts this year. Its V6 is down on horsepower compared to the S 560's larger V6, but otherwise it has the same exhaustive list of features. It's the best value here. The new driver assistance features aren't as well-executed as we would have expected, or as advanced as they might be portrayed, so we're more inclined to pass on those options. What you're left with is a stately sedan with an impeccable interior and a smooth ride that keeps occupants blissfully isolated from the harsh outside world. Quite simply, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exceeds expectations.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is available as a five-passenger sedan, four-passenger coupe and convertible (cabriolet).
The S450 is available as a sedan only while the S560, AMG S63 and AMG S65 are offered in all three body styles. The main difference among these trims is what's under the hood.
Starting things off is the S450 sedan. It's powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine (362 horsepower, 369 pound-feet of torque) that sends power to the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is available as an option.
The S560 has a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (463 hp, 516 lb-ft) but is otherwise equipped similarly. The all-wheel-drive system is standard on the S560 coupe but not available on the convertible.
Standard feature highlights include adaptive LED headlights, auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, a power trunklid, an air-ride adaptive suspension, keyless ignition and soft-close doors. On the inside, you get a virtual instrument panel, leather upholstery, 16-way power-adjustable front seats (with heating and memory functions), an air fragrancer and a power rear sunshade.
On the tech front, the S-Class comes with remote control over some features via a smartphone app, a wireless charging pad, a 115-volt household power outlet, a 12.3-inch display with Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, a navigation system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Burmester surround-sound system. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a drowsy driver warning system.
The S560 coupe and convertible add ventilated front seats, premium leather and an automated parking system but go without the household power outlet and rear sunshade. The convertible also features a folding soft top, Airscarf neck heating, and the Aircap system that deploys wind blockers atop the windshield and between the rear headrests.
Naturally, Mercedes offers a wealth of options to further solidify the S-Class' luxury status. You'll probably want the Premium package, which includes front multicontour seats with massage functions with instant heating and a surround-view camera system for the coupe and convertible while the sedan also adds ventilated front seats, power rear sunshades and the automated parking system. A head-up display is also included for the coupe and convertible. If safety is a priority, the Driver Assistance package bundles a wide assortment of advanced driver safety aids.
To keep rear passengers completely comfortable, there's the Executive Rear Seat package for the sedans with its multicontour seats with massage functions and a power-reclining right rear seat with ottoman and seat cushion airbags. There's also an optional Executive Rear Seat Plus package that replaces the center seat with a console and includes an entertainment system and refrigerated compartment.
Other add-ons include Magic Sky Control (dimming tint for the sunroof), Magic Body Control (a predictive suspension for sedans with a tilting function when cornering), a night-vision camera, a head-up display, a rear-seat wireless charging pad and a 26-speaker premium Burmester audio system.
The AMG S63 has a sportier take on luxury with a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (603 hp, 664 lb-ft). A performance-tuned all-wheel-drive system is standard along with unique exterior treatments. The AMG S65 ups the ante with a turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 (621 hp, 738 lb-ft) and is only available with rear-wheel drive.
The AMG models include the Premium package, 20-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, an adaptive sport suspension, a sport exhaust, unique sport modes and performance apps, the surround-view camera and an IWC clock (sedan only). The S65 adds further enticement with standard Magic Body Control, a leather headliner, the premium audio system and the night-vision system.
Trim tested
Driving
Acceleration
Braking
Steering
Handling
Drivability
Comfort
Seat comfort
Ride comfort
Noise & vibration
Climate control
Interior
Ease of use
Getting in/getting out
Driving position
Roominess
Visibility
Quality
Utility
Small-item storage
Cargo space
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite S-Class safety features:
- Active Brake Assist
- Warns if a forward collision is imminent and will automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time.
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Warns if an obstacle is in the path of the vehicle and will automatically steer 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.
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2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class for Sale
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See your car's valueThe 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan is just a bit more accessible than its predecessors thanks to a new entry-level model. Starting at $90,000, the V6-powered S450 costs about $10,000 less than the traditional V8-powered S560. Beyond that, the sportier and more powerful AMG S63 and AMG S65 push well past the $150,000 mark. At the pinnacle of luxury are the Mercedes-Maybach models that are covered separately. The 2018 S-Class coupe and convertible follow similar pricing and feature structures.
Standard feature highlights include 18-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, a power trunklid, an air-ride adaptive suspension, soft-close doors, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an air fragrancer, a power rear sunshade, a 12.3-inch display with Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, a navigation system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Burmester surround-sound system. Standard safety features include forward collision warning and mitigation, a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist and a drowsy driver warning system.
The S560 coupe and convertible add ventilated front seats, premium leather and an automated parking system. The convertible also features a folding soft top, Airscarf neck heating, and the Aircap system that deploys wind blockers atop the windshield and between the rear headrests.
The optional Premium package additions include ventilated front multicontour seats with massage functions and instant heating, power rear window sunshades, an automated parking system, a surround-view camera system and a hands-free trunk opener. It's a prerequisite for other add-ons such as the Executive Rear Seat package (rear multicontour seats with massage functions and seat-cushion airbags) and the Executive Rear Seat Plus package (adds a center console, heated and cooled cupholders, and two fold-out tables). Other packages add heated interior surfaces and more creature comforts for rear passengers.
The Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control with full-speed range, active steering assist, evasive steering assist, frontal cross-traffic collision alert and mitigation, a map- and sign-based speed limiter, active blind-spot assist, active lane change assist as well as other passenger protection systems.
Other add-ons include a dimmable tint for the sunroof, a heated windshield, Magic Body Control, a night-vision camera, a head-up display, a backseat refrigerated compartment, a rear-seat wireless charging pad and a premium Burmester audio system.
Compared to its primary competition, including heavyweights such as the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8 and Porsche Panamera, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting price that is several thousand dollars higher. These rivals have a bit more of a performance focus along with driver engagement, while the Mercedes S-Class puts opulence and traditional luxury at the forefront. There's not a bad choice in the bunch and all of Edmunds' in-depth reviews and shopping tools can help you find the right luxury sedan for you.
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Overview
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is offered in the following submodels: S-Class Sedan, S-Class Coupe, S-Class Convertible, S-Class AMG S 63, S-Class AMG S 65. Available styles include S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), S 560 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 65 4dr Sedan (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 7A), AMG S 65 2dr Coupe (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 7A), S 560 2dr Convertible (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 2dr Coupe AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), AMG S 63 2dr Convertible AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A), and AMG S 65 2dr Convertible (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 7A).
What do people think of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 S-Class 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. 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 2018 S-Class.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A)
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 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) 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale near. There are currently 10 new 2018 S-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $99,645 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 Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
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Find a new Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale - 1 great deals out of 8 listings starting at $12,963.
Find a new Mercedes-Benz for sale - 4 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $23,129.
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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 2018 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
Check out Mercedes-Benz S-Class lease specials
Related vehicle information
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Information
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