When it comes to comfort and refinement on four wheels, it really doesn't get much better than the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The interior is a standout for premium design, and just about every tech feature Mercedes makes is either standard or optional. The S-Class is more expensive than its rivals, but it offers just a little bit more polish than those cars too.
For decades, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has set the standard for the flagship luxury sedan class. The current model, introduced in 2021, is no exception. With its high levels of luxury, cutting-edge tech and near perfect balance of performance and comfort, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sets a high bar for its competitors.
One Owner S 500 AMG Line sold and serviced from new here at Sun Motors! Includes Warmth and Comfort Package with Heated Steering Wheel, Front and Rear...
The S-Class is just two years into its redesign, so changes for 2023 are relatively minor. The biggest change is the introduction of the plug-in hybrid S 580e model. The six-cylinder hybrid variant makes an impressive 510 horsepower and can cover short distances on battery power alone . The S 580e is available with DC fast-charging capability, which can restore 80% of the battery in as little as 20 minutes.
The S-Class was the Edmunds Top Rated Luxury Sedan in 2022, and even though we think the Mercedes is the best offering in the class, there are a few other full-size luxury sedans worth considering. The BMW 7 Series, Genesis G90 and Lexus LS are all competent flagships in their own right. Check out our Expert Rating below to see how they hold up to the mighty S-Class.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Reese Counts
Great
8.5
out of 10
We drove the 2023 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
8.5/10
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 this latest generation. We tested the S 580, which has the V8 engine. At our test track, it helped this flagship sedan accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a quick 4.7 seconds. Acceleration is impressively smooth, and the generous low-end torque means you don't ever have to work all that hard to pass a car on the highway.
Mercedes' engineers have worked to make the S-Class feel 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
9/10
How comfortable is the S-Class? The S-Class is easily one of the most comfortable vehicles on the road. 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.
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. The large doors open to a massive cabin with acres of legroom, headroom and shoulder room.
Technology
9/10
How’s the tech? The S-Class has always been one of the most tech-forward vehicles on the road. 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 Burmester audio system. It'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.
Storage
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.
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Mercedes-Benz S 580 4Matic, which is what we tested, gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined. We saw an impressive 23.7 mpg on our standardized evaluation route. That's better than most other V8-powered rivals.
Value
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. The S-Class is typically more expensive than an equivalent Audi A8, BMW 7 Series or Lexus LS 500, though none quite offer the same polish as the S-Class.
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.
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim level differences
The 2023 S-Class is currently available in three trim levels: S 500, S 580 and a new S 580e plug-in hybrid variant. An even more luxurious Mercedes-Maybach S 680 is also available, though it's reviewed separately on Edmunds. Compare the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim levels in-depth.
Which S-Class trim does Edmunds recommend?
The base turbocharged inline-six engine provides adequate thrust, but the turbocharged V8 of the S 580 feels better suited for a flagship luxury sedan. With the V8, acceleration is effortless — even more so than in previous S-Class iterations thanks to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. From there, go with the base Luxury Line configuration since it offers a wide range of comfort and convenience features and won't cost you anything extra.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 3 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
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
3 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:
23V445000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
2023070012
Number of vehicles affected:
143551
Defect Description:
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Defect Consequence:
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 18, 2023. Owner notification letters with a remedy were mailed September 29, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023070012.
Recall Number:
23V360000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
2023060004
Number of vehicles affected:
7558
Defect Description:
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 EQS 450, EQS 580, 2023 Maybach S 580, Maybach S 680, and S 580e vehicles. The electronic stability program (ESP) software may malfunction, which can result in disabled vehicle dynamics control systems, including the anti-lock brake system, acceleration slip regulation, electronic stability program, and electronic brake force distribution (ABS, ASR, ESP, and EBD), as well as a vehicle speed display failure.
Defect Consequence:
Disabled vehicle dynamics control systems, including ABS, ASR, ESP, and EBD, and a vehicle speed display failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the ESP control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023060004.
Recall Number:
23V309000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
2023070013
Number of vehicles affected:
3828
Defect Description:
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2023 EQE 350, S580e, 2022-2023 EQS 450, EQS 580, 2022 AMG EQS 53, and EQS 450+ vehicles. The high-voltage battery monitoring system software may not alert the driver of a battery malfunction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 305, "Electric-powered vehicles: Electrolyte Spillage and Electrical Shock Protection."
Defect Consequence:
A high-voltage battery monitoring system that does not alert the driver of a battery malfunction may increase the risk of an injury.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the battery management system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning August 18, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023070013.
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
The car drives great when working. Its looks great and still turn heads, but in 5 months of ownership, it has been in service 3 times. The engine light has gone on with no answer as to what the problem is. The mechanism for the door to open, broke and we were unable to open the door. Lots of quirks to the software and even key to open the doors is suspect.
I hope Mercedes learns to be … reliable.
Mechanically good; too much tech = LEMON
2 out of 5 stars
Aaron, 11/23/2023
2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 500 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
THe car drives like a dream. However, every function is controlled by a touch screen - which means there are NO tactile buttons/knobs. So you MUST constantly take your eyes off the road. All the computer controlled functions are very unreliable. The pop-out door handles are inconsistent & unreliable. The dashcam just doesn't work at all. Same with the air freshener - it doesn't work, … either. There are touch sensitive buttons on the steering wheel - which is just plain STUPID.
The center screen randomly changes screens
The "gestures" function constantly turns lights on and off and opens the sunroof randomly - even if you're not moving.
The trunk closed on my head 2x
The power seat buttons don't move - they hurt to operate the seats.
The blue tooth inconsistently connects.
The rear seat belt tensioners click and rattle (both of them).
The voice assistant is terrible and usually can't understand basic commands.
The fingerprint recognition button doesn't recognize programmed fingerprints
The Distronic (semi-autopilot) will phantom brake for no reason.
This is just a terribly executed car and NOT worth the $150k. Mercedes Benz really [non-permissible content removed] the bed with this one.
Some of these defects/problems are mere annoyances, others are downright dangerous. I'm gettiung ready to sue MB under CA lemon law - and they will lose. the car is only 2 yrs old, but has a mile long service history because of all the defects. An employee at the service dept told me the car is notorious for being problematic - "It's the worst car Mercedes has made in years, they're all coming back to us with a multitude of problems," this person told me.
DO NOT BUY THIS CAR - save yourself the hassle, get something else.
Mercedes S580 Executive Model
1 out of 5 stars
Nicole, 10/21/2023
2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
Beautiful car but all the technology and service was lacking terribly. After driving for 6 months we decided to move on, it was just that bad. Then to find out what was sticker priced at $165k and a complete disappointment was worth literally half the money with less than 3500 miles. Mercedes was an absolutely awful experience.
Just don’t do it, ever. I was this close to the Maybach but … the dealer had a $50k markup, should have walked away then!
AMAZING NEW DESIGN AND TECH UPGRADE
5 out of 5 stars
William Beal, 01/16/2022
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 580 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
The new S580 is without a doubt one the finest sedans in the world. The technology is awesome and the handling is beyond anything I ever imagined. I've had more compliments on this car than any other car I have ever owned and I have owned a lot of cars.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the S-Class since its last redesign.
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