2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
Price Range: $51,444 - $74,444
View 283 more photos
View 283 more photos
View 283 more photos
View 283 more photos
View 283 more photos+279
Great
8.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
When it comes to comfort and refinement on four wheels, it really doesn't get much better than the redesigned 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The previous model was already one of the best cars on the road, and the new one improves upon it in just about every way. The interior is more premium and better appointed than before, and there's improved in-car tech and driver aids, as well as improvements to the ride and handling. It's more expensive than its rivals, but it offers just a little bit more polish than those cars too.
Price & Payment
Changing year will take you to a new page
22 cars
|$62,210 avg. price
$
to$
Price
Mercedes-Benz S-Class model years
Mercedes-Benz S-Class types
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
Pros
- Engines are both powerful and efficient
- Interior blends traditional opulence with cutting-edge tech
- Silent, comfortable cabin
- Rear-wheel steering adds excellent low-speed maneuverability
Cons
- Some driver assist options have questionable value
- The ride borders on too soft in its Comfort setting
- Panic-stopping distance is a little long with all-season tires
What's new
- Completely redesigned
- Tech-forward interior is dominated by a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 2021 model kicks off the seventh S-Class generation
Overview
The S-Class has long been Mercedes-Benz's flagship vehicle platform to showcase the company's capabilities in luxury, comfort and technology. For 2021, Mercedes-Benz has comprehensively redesigned the S-Class and looks to continue the tradition of innovation and elegance that has long defined this iconic sedan and keep it ahead of rivals such as the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Porsche Panamera.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
22 listings
- $51,444great price$10,239 below market
- 42,172 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 17 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- Auto Buying Service (18 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Fairfax, VA
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/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: W1K6G7GB9MA018928
Stock: ABS5764
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 05-30-2023 - $52,444great price$9,679 below market
- 51,410 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 17 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- Auto Buying Service (18 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Fairfax, VA
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/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: W1K6G7GB4MA039606
Stock: ABS7843
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 02-27-2025
The most recognizable changes can be seen inside the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It flaunts a larger touchscreen and fewer physical buttons, proof that Mercedes has delved further into using technology to enhance the comfort and driving experience. Even with a tech-heavy appearance, there's still the opulence and attention to detail S-Class buyers expect. Of course there are many, if not more, changes beneath the subtle metal restyling. A retuned suspension, more sophisticated advanced driver aids and an impressive rear-wheel steering system are among them.
With its full redesign, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class leaves no doubt that it offers one of the most technologically advanced and refined driving experiences on the market. Bristling with technology that provides not only comfort but also intense personalization as well as safety, the S-Class again sets a new standard for a luxury sedan. It might take some buyers a bit of time to adjust to the radically new interior, but our time in the new S-Class has left us deeply impressed.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Great
8.5
out of 10
We drove the 2021 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.
Driving experience: 0-60, engine & performance
8.5/10
How does the S-Class drive? Outside of AMG-tuned models, the S-Class has never been all that sporty. Comfortable and quick, sure, but not that engaging. That's changed with the new model. The V8 engine makes more power than before, thanks in part to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Besides improving fuel economy, the 48-volt system fills in the power gap before the turbos build boost and further smooth the shifts from the nine-speed automatic. The generous low-end torque means you don't ever have to work all that hard to pass a car on the highway.
But engines have never been the S-Class' issue. Mercedes' engineers have worked to make it feel more athletic without sacrificing comfort. The air suspension keeps the car smooth and composed around turns, and it can lower up to 0.7 inch in the Sport+ driving mode to improve overall handling. The optional rear-axle steering improves high-speed stability and makes it easier to park, another win-win for performance and convenience.
But engines have never been the S-Class' issue. Mercedes' engineers have worked to make it feel more athletic without sacrificing comfort. The air suspension keeps the car smooth and composed around turns, and it can lower up to 0.7 inch in the Sport+ driving mode to improve overall handling. The optional rear-axle steering improves high-speed stability and makes it easier to park, another win-win for performance and convenience.
Comfort: seats, ease of use, and getting in & out
9/10
How comfortable is the S-Class? The outgoing S-Class was already one of the most comfortable vehicles on the road, so the fact that the new model doesn't feel wholly different while cruising isn't a bad thing. The standard heated and massaging front seats are supremely comfortable, with supportive but soft cushions and tons of adjustability. Our test vehicle had a combination of packages that included power-adjustable, heated, ventilated and massaging rear seats with a footrest. It also had heated armrests and four-zone climate control, making the rear seats just as comfortable as the front.
It's quiet and refined, too. It's not quite as quiet at idle as some other sedans, but it's still relatively isolating. It's the way that the S-Class maintains that same level of isolation no matter what speed you're going. While there's a small amount of wind and road noise, the S-Class is whisper quiet, even at highway speeds.
It's quiet and refined, too. It's not quite as quiet at idle as some other sedans, but it's still relatively isolating. It's the way that the S-Class maintains that same level of isolation no matter what speed you're going. While there's a small amount of wind and road noise, the S-Class is whisper quiet, even at highway speeds.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The interior is stunning to look at, but using and operating all of the S-Class' vast number of features and tech can require a bit of a learning curve. MBUX, Mercedes' infotainment system, gets an update with a larger screen that houses even more of the car's features and reduces dedicated controls to things like volume adjustment. The menu system is deep, but it's intuitive and easy to use.
That large screen is well placed and easy to reach thanks to the S-Class' excellent driving position. It's relaxed and comfortable, but surprisingly good outward visibility means you always have a good sense of the car's sizable dimensions. And big it is. Large doors open to a massive cabin with acres of leg-, headroom and shoulder room.
That large screen is well placed and easy to reach thanks to the S-Class' excellent driving position. It's relaxed and comfortable, but surprisingly good outward visibility means you always have a good sense of the car's sizable dimensions. And big it is. Large doors open to a massive cabin with acres of leg-, headroom and shoulder room.
In-cabin tech: infotainment & phone integration
9/10
How’s the tech? The S-Class has always been one of the most tech-forward vehicles on the road. While the new model doesn't offer anything vastly different than before, the in-car tech and driver aids have undergone a bit of an update and refinement. All S-Class trims come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a wireless charging pad. There are a handful of USB-C ports too. The head-up display will show navigation directions, even if you're using Apple Maps. For those who use them, voice controls work well and understand natural language. Our test car was equipped with the $6,730 Burmester audio system. That's not cheap, but this might be the best sound system you can get in a car today.
But it's not all about screens and sound. The S-Class is available with a plethora of driver aids. While there's no hands-free mode, what's there works smoothly and is easy to engage.
But it's not all about screens and sound. The S-Class is available with a plethora of driver aids. While there's no hands-free mode, what's there works smoothly and is easy to engage.
Storage: cargo space & space for small items
8/10
How’s the storage? Despite being just about the longest vehicle in its class, the S-Class ranks near the bottom in terms of cargo space. With 12.9 cubic feet, the Mercedes offers less storage than the BMW 7 Series or Porsche Panamera. That said, the available space is deep and easy to reach inside. Storage in the cabin is far better. Luxury cars usually lack small-item storage, but there are plenty of places up front to store water bottles, phones, sunglasses, hand sanitizer and more.
Installing a car seat should be relatively easy. The doors are wide, and the generous rear seat room helps with rear-facing seats, though that's true for the competition too.
Installing a car seat should be relatively easy. The doors are wide, and the generous rear seat room helps with rear-facing seats, though that's true for the competition too.
MPG: gas mileage & fuel economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Mercedes-Benz S 580 4Matic has an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 20 mpg (17 city/25 highway). We saw an impressive 23.7 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation loop. That's better than most other V8-powered rivals thanks in part to Mercedes' EQ Boost mild hybrid system.
Value: cost, features & warranty
8/10
Is the S-Class a good value? Few cars on the road today can offer the level of luxury and premium appointments as the S-Class. Everything you touch or see on the car feels like it's been carefully thought out and designed. The leather is soft, and the buttons have heft. It all feels rock-solid. Unfortunately, it will cost you. A base S 500 4Matic starts at $110,850. Stepping up to the V8-powered S 580 4Matic brings it to $117,350. Both are more than the equivalent Audi A8, BMW 7 Series or Lexus LS 500, though none quite offer the same polish as the S-Class. Our loaded tester had an MSRP of $147,590.
Mercedes offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain and rust warranty, average for the class. While there's also four years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance, unlike most rivals, Mercedes doesn't include any service visits.
Mercedes offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain and rust warranty, average for the class. While there's also four years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance, unlike most rivals, Mercedes doesn't include any service visits.
Wildcard
8.5/10
Unlike head-turning rivals like the BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the S-Class features subtle looks that don't necessarily grab attention. While it may seem a bit conservative and sedate, that's by design and part of its appeal. Once you step inside, though, the S-Class wows with a handsome and tech-forward interior. The story gets even better once you start moving. It's not a sport sedan in the vein of the Porsche Panamera, but it handles well enough. The engine, though, is a real sweetheart. Soften the suspension, crank the radio and enjoy the buttery V8. There's a charm and joy in just cruising around in a big, comfy luxury sedan.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim level differences
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a large luxury vehicle sold in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. The sedan is completely redesigned for 2021, while the coupe and convertible are essentially carried over from the previous generation. Since little has changed for the coupe and convertible for 2021, be sure to check out last year's review for a full list of standard and optional features for these models.
Which S-Class trim does Edmunds recommend?
There's nothing wrong with selecting the turbocharged six-cylinder, but sedans at this price level really should have a powertrain that's as impressive as the rest of the vehicle. For that reason, we'd select the S 580 and its V8. Most buyers will be served well by the base Luxury Line trim, which features a rock-star lineup of desirable features. However, if you want backseat passengers to experience the same luxuries enjoyed by those in front, the Executive Line is the way to go.
Compare 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Edmunds Tested: Electric Car Range and Consumption

The New Mercedes-Benz GLB Will Debut on December 8. Here's What We Know

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC EV First Drive Review: A Lesson in Sand Surfin'

Tested: 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance Is Better Because It's Heavier
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$195/mo for S-Class S 500 4MATIC
S-Class S 500 4MATIC
vs
$188/mo
Avg. Large Car
Reliability
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 2 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
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
Frequency
2.06x/yr
vs. 1.74x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
Severity
17.4%
vs. 14.7%
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking 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:
- 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 began March 12, 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
- Hybrid component Warranty
- 6 years / 62,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(76%)
4(8%)
3(0%)
2(3%)
1(13%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
never in 21 yrs given MB less than 5 stars, but...
2 out of 5 starsP M, 04/15/2020
2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
I guess every maker has a bad year. I think it’s MB’s turn. I’ve had this new 2019 S560 4matic sedan 5 months, and all 5, battled operational and technology issues, PLUS, a dealer who has REFUSED to fix the car! And MBUSA has refused to get in the middle. The car will not shift - 3 times in one day, it’s confused, won’t shift into park, and the shifter operates the NAV screen! I felt … like I was being taken over by a machine in Terminator and my car was rebelling. Many technology issues, such as not using a contact for directions - it tells me info is missing, even though it’s there. Won’t load all my contacts (yes, I’ve done everything all the books and MB says), my doors suddenly won’t unlock and I have the key fob. All except technology failures, are intermittent but enough I can not trust the car again. It doesn’t help the dealer actually refused to take the car, won’t send anyone to view the problems so I can create them, MB executive relations won’t get in the middle, and I’m stuck with a car I rightly can’t trust to drive.
Back In The "High Life" Again!
5 out of 5 starsabacomike, 11/11/2017
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
This is a truly refined automobile. I traded in my 2017 BMW 740i for the 2018 S450. There is very little comparison to the two cars. The Mercedes is quick, smooth riding and handling, stays in a straight line with little driver input which was not the case with the BMW 7 Series. The vehicle corners precisely and does not handle like a 4500+ pound luxury sedan - but more like a 3800 … pound vehicle. This car is, without doubt, the most beautiful, fun-to-drive and most comfortable luxury sedan I have every driven - and I have owned more than 40 luxury sedans in my lifetime. The pricing on this car is about $10,000 less than the S560 - mostly due to the V6 bi-turbo as opposed to a V8 bi-turbo. I drove both models and found the S450 to be a bit more nimble. Be prepared to surround yourself in the epitome of luxury, performance, audio, as a well as a myriad of driver safety features like adaptive cruise, adaptive lane departure, adaptive blind spot monitoring (which cause the car to remain in the lane if a car is detected on either side of you. Self-steering is precise as is the adaptive cruise. I'll update my review as I build up the miles. In summary, this is a luxury sports sedan while the BMW 7 series tends to be a more sporty handling vehicle. The new 9 speed transmission and driver-selected ride and handling options (Comfort, Sport, Economy) make the world of difference in this new S Class entry. Audio System is not to be believed - like listening to a live performance.
AMAZING LUXURY SEDAN 2018 S560
5 out of 5 starsWilliam Beal, 01/13/2019
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 560 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 9A)
This is by far the finest luxury car I have ever driven. Read all the owner reviews. When Mercedes redesigned the S560 in 2015 they had to get it right to reclaim their status at the top of luxury cars. They did get it right and even owners of a Bentley and Rolls have told me it is superior to their sedans. It is perfection on wheels and the awesome technology wraps you in safety as … well as comfort. The refined Distronic Plus allows you to sit back and relax and let the car drive itself for you on the highway. It has been upgraded from my 2015 and is far more refined on the highway tracking your lane exactly. You will not be disappointed in the car. It is truly amazing.
2019 Mercedes S 450 problems
1 out of 5 starsAndy , 07/28/2019
2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 450 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
A month ago I traded in my 2015 S 550 for a 2019 S 450, my 4th S Class and our 7th Benz. It has already been in the shop twice -- the nav system can not find certain mature house numbers and zip codes and the onboard owner's manual does not open. The folding mirrors have failed to fold twice when the doors are locked. The Merecedes shop keeps talking about software upgrades which makes … me wonder if all 2019 S Class cars have these problems, or only mine. I have sent e-mails to Mereceds-Benz Germany, who says that the responsibility is with MBUSA, and MBUSA armwaves saying the car has a warranty. If the Mercedes shop is unable to fix the car the warranty is useless. Not what one would expect from a company that brags "Das Beste oder nichts".
After six visits to the shop the nav system is dysfunctional. I recently checked a 2019 CLS 450 --- same problem with the nav system as on my S 450.
My 2019 S 450 also developed a problem with the Easy Entry/Exit system. The steering wheel no longer moves up or down. The shop fixed it but the fix did not last long.
The car is a Lemon and MB bought it back.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the S-Class since its last redesign.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class video
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class First Look ― New S-Class Luxury Sedan Redesign!
After seven years, Mercedes-Benz is rolling out a redesign of its top-rated luxury sedan, the 2021 S-Class. In this video, Mark Takahashi explains what's new and what to expect from this top-of-the-line luxury sedan, including details on the interior and exterior, four-wheel steering and the return of Road Surface Scan.
2021 S-Class Highlights
Sedan
S 500 4MATIC
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $109,800 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Mild hybrid |
| Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $195/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 12.9 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the S-Class models:
- Pre-Safe Impulse Side
- If an imminent side impact is detected, the outboard side bolsters inflate in a fraction of a second to protect the occupant's body.
- 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.
People who viewed this also viewed
| 4.0 average Rating out of 5 reviews. |
| Starting at $62,450 |
| 4.0 average Rating out of 8 reviews. |
| Starting at $48,450 |
| 3.0 average Rating out of 16 reviews. |
| Starting at $61,850 |
Related Used 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 2020 Review
- Ford Transit Passenger Van 2021 Review
- Toyota Sequoia 2020 Review
- Toyota Sienna 2021 Review
- Cadillac XT6 2020 Review
- Audi S3 2020 Review
- Nissan Titan 2021 Review
Shop similar models
- Used BMW M5 2026
- Used BMW 5-Series 2026
- Used Volvo S90 2025
- Used Volvo S60 2025
- Used Lexus LS-600H-L 2016
- Used BMW Activehybrid-5 2016
- Used Audi S8 2025
- Used Lexus LS-500H 2023
- Used Audi RS-7 2025
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
Research other models of Mercedes-Benz
- 2025 S-Class
- 2026 GLC
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
- Mercedes-Benz GLE 2026
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2025
- Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2025
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Mercedes-Benz Maybach 2024
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Chevrolet Traverse-Limited in Ennis, TX 2024
- New Subaru Ascent for Sale in Trenton, NJ
- Used Porsche 944 in Bluffton, SC 1991
- Used Fisker Karma in Gary, IN 2012
- Used BMW Z8 in Grenada, MS 2003
- Used Cadillac Lyriq in Bellingham, WA 2026
- Used Jaguar Xj-Series in Pooler, GA 2008
- New Mercedes-Benz Maybach-Eqs-Suv for Sale in Henderson, KY
- New Audi A7 for Sale in Bettendorf, IA
- New BMW X4 for Sale in Lewiston, ME



