2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

Name: 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Brand: Mercedes-Benz

Price Range: $26,571 - $114,995

Mercedes-Benz S-Class AMG S 63 Sedan Exterior

Great

8.4

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

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 2020 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.

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Average price: $52,483

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class model years

Mercedes-Benz S-Class for Sale

Mercedes-Benz S-Class types

Pros

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

Cons

Not as engaging to drive as some rivals
Some driver assistance options have questionable value

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

Overview

Written by automotive expert Mark Takahashi

5/18/2020

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.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

30 listings

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2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
S 560 Sedan
$41,555
great price
$3,526 below market
- 46,700 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 17 City / 27 Hwy MPG
- Carget Motors (30 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Woodbridge, VA
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560, with just 46,700 miles on the odometer, offers a compelling opportunity to acquire a premier flagship sedan. It ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (17 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WDDUG8DB9LA502551
Stock: 502551
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-26-2026
New Listing
2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
AMG S 63 Sedan
$84,300
good price
$6,257 below market
- 32,302 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 17 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- Space Auto Group (191 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in East Brunswick, NJ
Real Prices, No Surprises! At Space Auto Group, we stand out among other dealerships by offering a transparent and honest car-buying process.No hidden...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (17 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WDDUG8JB1LA514651
Stock: S11242
Certified Pre-Owned: No

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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

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.4

out of 10

We drove the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the S-Class drive? 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.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the S-Class? 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.

Interior

8.5/10

How’s the interior? 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.

Technology

9/10

How’s the tech? 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.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? 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.

Fuel Economy

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? 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.

Value

8/10

Is the S-Class a good value? 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

9/10

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.

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim level differences

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 convertible are limited to the S 560 and AMG S 63. Feature highlights include: Compare the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim levels in-depth.

Which S-Class trim 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).

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$266/mo

$269/mo

Avg. Large Car

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Reliability

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5, ranks it #35 out of 48 among Luxury Fullsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

2.5 out of 5 stars2.5/5Average

#35 out of 48 among Luxury Fullsize Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$871/yr

vs. $729/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car

Frequency

2.06x/yr

vs. 1.74x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car

Severity

17.4%

vs. 14.7%
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car

Recalls

5 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 22V365000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2022060005
Number of vehicles affected:: 234918
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Defect Consequence:: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060005.

Recall Number:: 21V961000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2022030003
Number of vehicles affected:: 139
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

Recall Number:: 21V527000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2021070032
Number of vehicles affected:: 542
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG CLS53, E350, E450, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, 2020 S450, S560, G550, AMG GLC63, 2020-2021 GLC300, and AMG G63 vehicles. The side crash sensor connectors may come loose, which could delay the activation of air bags and seatbelts during a side impact crash.
Defect Consequence:: Air bags and seatbelts that don't function as intended can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the side impact crash sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021070032/33.

Recall Number:: 21V197000
Number of vehicles affected:: 15096
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.
Defect Consequence:: The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 21V058000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2021020025
Number of vehicles affected:: 1292258
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Defect Consequence:: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 6, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.4

35 reviews

5(77%)

4(9%)

3(0%)

2(3%)

1(11%)

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2020 S-Class Features & Specs

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

S 450

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$94,250
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$266/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the S-Class models:

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.

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2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

Price & Payment

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near Ashburn, VA

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim level differences

Which S-Class trim does Edmunds recommend?

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

Recalls

Warranty

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2020 S-Class Features & Specs

Safety

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