Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2027)
Serene, powerful, rear-seat luxurious, but let down by screens and six-figure pricing.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2027) is a rolling sanctuary for executives, chauffeurs, and drivers who want traffic to disappear into the background. Its AIRMATIC air suspension, hushed cabin, and rear-axle steering make this enormous sedan feel remarkably calm and manageable, while the S500 delivers the best balance of effortless power and cost. Experts largely support Mercedes’ flagship claims, especially its executive rear-seat comfort, though reviewers and forum users question the screen-heavy cabin, glossy materials, fussy touch controls, and divisive styling. At an expected six-figure price, it offers extraordinary comfort and prestige, but not an easy value argument. Its overall appeal rests on how much you prioritize serenity and rear-seat indulgence over tactile simplicity, sportiness, and affordability.
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Benefits
Air suspension and supportive seats make long drives feel calm, settled, and remarkably unhurried.
Reclining, heated, massaging rear seats give passengers a relaxing place to work or unwind.
The hushed cabin makes calls, conversations, and relaxed listening easier across long journeys.
Smooth engines deliver quick, quiet acceleration without making ordinary driving feel demanding.
Rear-axle steering makes this large sedan easier to place, park, and maneuver in tight streets.
Trade-Offs
The glossy Superscreen dominates the dashboard, making simple controls feel distracting and less inviting.
Haptic steering-wheel and climate controls require extra glances, slowing simple adjustments while driving.
The steering wheel can block parts of the instrument display, making information harder to read naturally.
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Publications
8 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
MotorTrend’s Angus MacKenzie is strongly impressed by the 2027 S-Class, especially its serene ride, sharper handling, sophisticated MB:OS software, and compelling new flat-plane-crank V-8. The flagship feels more composed than ever on winding roads, while features such as predictive suspension control, natural-language AI, advanced driver assistance, and the improved Superscreen make it feel genuinely modern. Still, the review is not uncritical: the steering wheel can obscure parts of the preferred instrument display, the V-8’s engineered burble may be overly loud for a luxury sedan, and the S580e hybrid suffers from extra weight and occasionally imperfect powertrain and brake integration. MacKenzie ultimately favors the lighter, less expensive S500, praising its refinement, punch, and agility over the more dramatic S580 and the quieter but slower hybrid.
By Angus MacKenzie
Car and Driver’s Csaba Csere views the 2027 S-Class as a deeply satisfying renewal rather than a revolutionary redesign. More than 2,700 revised parts bring sharper styling, a thoroughly updated cabin, improved MBUX controls, stronger engines, and standard rear-wheel steering. Csere is especially impressed by the seamless acceleration of both the S500 and S580, their smooth transmission, precise controls, serene ride, and remarkable composure for a 5,000-pound sedan. The road-learning suspension system may help explain its unusually refined handling. Still, the review flags some ergonomic quirks, including a low dashboard, steering-wheel interference with the instrument display, and controls that require a learning curve. Artificial engine sound also feels slightly out of place. With pricing already hovering around six figures and likely to rise, value is difficult to defend, but Csere’s overall judgment is clearly favorable: this remains an exceptional luxury sedan, even if it is fundamentally a major facelift.
By Csaba Csere
MotorTrend’s Angus MacKenzie is strongly impressed by the 2027 S-Class, especially its serene ride, sharper handling, sophisticated MB:OS software, and compelling new flat-plane-crank V-8. The flagship feels more composed than ever on winding roads, while features such as predictive suspension control, natural-language AI, advanced driver assistance, and the improved Superscreen make it feel genuinely modern. Still, the review is not uncritical: the steering wheel can obscure parts of the preferred instrument display, the V-8’s engineered burble may be overly loud for a luxury sedan, and the S580e hybrid suffers from extra weight and occasionally imperfect powertrain and brake integration. MacKenzie ultimately favors the lighter, less expensive S500, praising its refinement, punch, and agility over the more dramatic S580 and the quieter but slower hybrid.
By Angus MacKenzie
Car and Driver’s Csaba Csere views the 2027 S-Class as a deeply satisfying renewal rather than a revolutionary redesign. More than 2,700 revised parts bring sharper styling, a thoroughly updated cabin, improved MBUX controls, stronger engines, and standard rear-wheel steering. Csere is especially impressed by the seamless acceleration of both the S500 and S580, their smooth transmission, precise controls, serene ride, and remarkable composure for a 5,000-pound sedan. The road-learning suspension system may help explain its unusually refined handling. Still, the review flags some ergonomic quirks, including a low dashboard, steering-wheel interference with the instrument display, and controls that require a learning curve. Artificial engine sound also feels slightly out of place. With pricing already hovering around six figures and likely to rise, value is difficult to defend, but Csere’s overall judgment is clearly favorable: this remains an exceptional luxury sedan, even if it is fundamentally a major facelift.
By Csaba Csere
MotorTrend’s Angus MacKenzie is strongly impressed by the 2027 S-Class, especially its serene ride, sharper handling, sophisticated MB:OS software, and compelling new flat-plane-crank V-8. The flagship feels more composed than ever on winding roads, while features such as predictive suspension control, natural-language AI, advanced driver assistance, and the improved Superscreen make it feel genuinely modern. Still, the review is not uncritical: the steering wheel can obscure parts of the preferred instrument display, the V-8’s engineered burble may be overly loud for a luxury sedan, and the S580e hybrid suffers from extra weight and occasionally imperfect powertrain and brake integration. MacKenzie ultimately favors the lighter, less expensive S500, praising its refinement, punch, and agility over the more dramatic S580 and the quieter but slower hybrid.
By Angus MacKenzie
Car and Driver’s Csaba Csere views the 2027 S-Class as a deeply satisfying renewal rather than a revolutionary redesign. More than 2,700 revised parts bring sharper styling, a thoroughly updated cabin, improved MBUX controls, stronger engines, and standard rear-wheel steering. Csere is especially impressed by the seamless acceleration of both the S500 and S580, their smooth transmission, precise controls, serene ride, and remarkable composure for a 5,000-pound sedan. The road-learning suspension system may help explain its unusually refined handling. Still, the review flags some ergonomic quirks, including a low dashboard, steering-wheel interference with the instrument display, and controls that require a learning curve. Artificial engine sound also feels slightly out of place. With pricing already hovering around six figures and likely to rise, value is difficult to defend, but Csere’s overall judgment is clearly favorable: this remains an exceptional luxury sedan, even if it is fundamentally a major facelift.
By Csaba Csere
MotorTrend’s Angus MacKenzie is strongly impressed by the 2027 S-Class, especially its serene ride, sharper handling, sophisticated MB:OS software, and compelling new flat-plane-crank V-8. The flagship feels more composed than ever on winding roads, while features such as predictive suspension control, natural-language AI, advanced driver assistance, and the improved Superscreen make it feel genuinely modern. Still, the review is not uncritical: the steering wheel can obscure parts of the preferred instrument display, the V-8’s engineered burble may be overly loud for a luxury sedan, and the S580e hybrid suffers from extra weight and occasionally imperfect powertrain and brake integration. MacKenzie ultimately favors the lighter, less expensive S500, praising its refinement, punch, and agility over the more dramatic S580 and the quieter but slower hybrid.
By Angus MacKenzie
Car and Driver’s Csaba Csere views the 2027 S-Class as a deeply satisfying renewal rather than a revolutionary redesign. More than 2,700 revised parts bring sharper styling, a thoroughly updated cabin, improved MBUX controls, stronger engines, and standard rear-wheel steering. Csere is especially impressed by the seamless acceleration of both the S500 and S580, their smooth transmission, precise controls, serene ride, and remarkable composure for a 5,000-pound sedan. The road-learning suspension system may help explain its unusually refined handling. Still, the review flags some ergonomic quirks, including a low dashboard, steering-wheel interference with the instrument display, and controls that require a learning curve. Artificial engine sound also feels slightly out of place. With pricing already hovering around six figures and likely to rise, value is difficult to defend, but Csere’s overall judgment is clearly favorable: this remains an exceptional luxury sedan, even if it is fundamentally a major facelift.
By Csaba Csere
YouTube
4 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
carwowMat from Carwow is impressed by the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class but stops short of calling it class-leading luxury. He praises its exceptionally smooth, quiet ride, strong plug-in-hybrid performance, polished MB.OS infotainment, and remarkably capable parking technology. The rear-seat experience remains excellent, particularly in the first-class configuration, though the seats feel firmer than a BMW 7 Series. His main disappointment is that the facelift’s exterior grille and some cabin materials look plasticky, while several screens and controls feel laggy or awkward. Overall, it is arguably the best-driving luxury sedan, but not the most convincing luxury purchase.
AutogefühlAutogefühl is enthusiastic about the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, especially its extraordinary comfort and refinement. The reviewer calls the new linen/leatherette seats the most comfortable S-Class seating yet, praises the exceptionally smooth AIRMATIC ride, quiet cabin, rear-axle steering, improved cupholders, and relaxing Autobahn manners. The S 500 feels powerful and efficient enough, while the facelift’s historical design touches add charm. Still, BMW’s 7 Series leads in seat ergonomics and driver assistance, and Mercedes retains too many capacitive controls, slow displays, and an undersized climate interface. At €160,000 fully equipped, it is an indulgent pleasure rather than a rational value.
carwowMat from Carwow is impressed by the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class but stops short of calling it class-leading luxury. He praises its exceptionally smooth, quiet ride, strong plug-in-hybrid performance, polished MB.OS infotainment, and remarkably capable parking technology. The rear-seat experience remains excellent, particularly in the first-class configuration, though the seats feel firmer than a BMW 7 Series. His main disappointment is that the facelift’s exterior grille and some cabin materials look plasticky, while several screens and controls feel laggy or awkward. Overall, it is arguably the best-driving luxury sedan, but not the most convincing luxury purchase.
AutogefühlAutogefühl is enthusiastic about the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, especially its extraordinary comfort and refinement. The reviewer calls the new linen/leatherette seats the most comfortable S-Class seating yet, praises the exceptionally smooth AIRMATIC ride, quiet cabin, rear-axle steering, improved cupholders, and relaxing Autobahn manners. The S 500 feels powerful and efficient enough, while the facelift’s historical design touches add charm. Still, BMW’s 7 Series leads in seat ergonomics and driver assistance, and Mercedes retains too many capacitive controls, slow displays, and an undersized climate interface. At €160,000 fully equipped, it is an indulgent pleasure rather than a rational value.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Marouane BembliMarouane Bembli is cautiously impressed by the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, especially its power and enlarged grille. He cites up to 530 horsepower and a 3.9-second 0–60 mph time, while acknowledging the 576-hp inline-six plug-in hybrid is slower. The design earns mixed feelings: he prefers the previous headlights because their graphics aligned more naturally with the housing, though he likes the new star LEDs and confident grille. His sharpest criticism targets the screen-heavy interior, which he views as cold, visually overwhelming, and overly digital. Overall, he sees a classy but polarizing update.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are broadly unimpressed with the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, despite recognizing its speed and luxury credentials. The exterior earns occasional praise, particularly for looking more distinctive than the outgoing model, but excessive star branding and awkward details divide opinion. The cabin draws the strongest backlash: users find its screen-heavy, EQS-like layout cheap, lazy, and less elegant than older S-Classes, with thick bezels and too few physical controls. Some still defend the S-Class’s comfort, prestige, V12 availability, and effortless performance, while loyal owners acknowledge its appeal. Yet many shoppers see declining value, questionable longevity, and little reason to upgrade.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Serene air suspensionAIRMATIC smooths broken pavement calmly.
- •Effortless power deliveryEngines provide quiet, rapid acceleration.
- •Executive rear seatingReclining massage seats support long journeys.
- •Remarkable cabin quietnessIsolation keeps highway travel exceptionally peaceful.
Considerations
- •Screen-heavy cabinLarge displays can overwhelm the dashboard.
- •Awkward touch controlsHaptic inputs complicate simple adjustments.
- •Divisive exterior stylingIlluminated grille and branding divide opinion.
- •Six-figure pricingHigh costs make value difficult to defend.
Mercedes’ flagship sedan remains a benchmark for quiet, comfort-first luxury, now updated with more technology and power. The 2027 S-Class is designed for executives, chauffeured passengers, and affluent drivers who want effortless travel rather than sports-car theatrics. Its AIRMATIC air suspension, standard rear-axle steering, and available 4Matic all-wheel drive aim to make a large sedan feel remarkably calm and manageable, while the S500, S580, and S580e broaden the performance and efficiency choices. Compared with rivals such as the BMW 7 Series, it leans harder into rear-seat indulgence and isolation, though its MB.OS Superscreen, glossy trim, and touch-heavy controls are more divisive than its traditional materials. The sections ahead examine its engine refinement, executive rear seating, cabin quietness, and interior quality—because the flagship’s magic is impressive, but its screen may want equal billing.
Easy Large-Sedan Maneuvering
Rear-axle steering makes the S-Class far easier to place than its size implies. Standard rear-axle steering tightens low-speed maneuverability while improving stability at speed, and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive adds confidence in poor conditions. Reviewers find the car surprisingly manageable in cities and parking areas, supported by advanced automated parking and reverse-maneuvering features. The technology is not flawless, though, with some criticism of clumsy automatic parking, occasional lane-change hesitation, and touch-heavy controls that complicate otherwise simple interactions.
Power and Acceleration
The S-Class makes rapid progress feel almost effortless rather than dramatic. The S500’s 3.0-liter inline-six mild hybrid produces about 442 horsepower, while the S580’s 530-hp flat-plane-crank V8 reaches 60 mph in a reported 3.9 seconds. The S580e plug-in hybrid adds quiet electric capability and 576 horsepower, but extra weight can affect integration. Reviewers often find the S500 the smartest balance, while the V8 adds sound and theater at a higher cost.
Air Suspension Ride
The S-Class delivers an exceptionally settled ride, especially over broken pavement and long highway stretches. Its AIRMATIC air suspension is paired with road-learning and cloud-connected predictive functions that can prepare for rough surfaces, supporting the flagship’s calm, insulated character. Expert drives broadly praise its composure, though some note more body roll at very high Autobahn speeds. The system is a major usability strength for daily comfort, but it prioritizes relaxation over sporty sharpness.
Cabin Quietness
The S-Class creates a remarkably peaceful space for conversation, work, or simply disappearing from traffic noise. Its exceptionally quiet cabin works with the air suspension, substantial body structure, and refined powertrains to make high-speed travel feel unhurried. Expert road tests consistently praise this isolation, although the V8’s engineered exhaust note can sound more prominent than expected in a luxury sedan. That quietness remains one of the car’s strongest everyday benefits, particularly for rear-seat passengers.
Rear-Seat Comfort
Rear passengers receive the S-Class’s most convincing luxury experience. Available reclining massage seats add heating, cooling, and generous legroom, while first-class configurations can include executive-style cushions and individual entertainment screens. Reviewers describe the space as business-class or even spa-like, making it especially well suited to chauffeured travel and long journeys. Seat firmness and ergonomics are not universally preferred, however, with some reviewers favoring the softer, more natural seating position of the BMW 7 Series.
Interior Materials and Tech
The cabin is beautifully assembled but less uniformly luxurious than its price suggests. Mercedes’ MB.OS infotainment and three-screen Superscreen deliver modern software, natural-language functions, and extensive personalization, yet reviewers frequently criticize slow interfaces, piano-black trim, plastic-looking vents, and fingerprint-prone surfaces. The large passenger display and glossy glass panel can feel visually overwhelming rather than elegant. This is where brand claims of cutting-edge sophistication meet the clearest user skepticism, especially from owners who prefer physical controls and richer traditional materials.
Conclusion
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class makes its strongest case by turning distance into downtime: AIRMATIC air suspension smooths rough pavement, while rear-axle steering makes this large sedan surprisingly manageable. Its S500, S580, and S580e powertrains deliver effortless acceleration, though the lighter S500 often seems the most balanced choice. For passengers, rear-seat comfort remains exceptional, with reclining massage functions, heating, cooling, and generous space, all supported by remarkable cabin quietness. The reservations are equally clear: interior assembly is solid, but the screen-heavy dashboard, glossy trim, plastic-feeling details, and touch controls dilute the traditional sense of luxury. This is a compelling choice for executives, chauffeurs, and buyers prioritizing calm, isolation, and prestige—not those seeking tactile simplicity, sporty engagement, or easy-to-defend value. Its refined hardware and unmatched comfort justify a strong recommendation, provided the digital excess and six-figure price fit the brief.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
5/5
Acceleration
5/5
Reliability & Durability
3/5
Handling & Ride Comfort
5/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Value
Purchase Price Competitiveness
3/5
Cost of Ownership
2/5
Resale Value
3/5
Feature Value
4/5
Design
Exterior Styling
4/5
Interior Ergonomics
3/5
Cargo Space
3/5
Infotainment Quality
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
TBD
Active Safety Systems
4/5
Visibility & Lighting
4/5
Child Occupant Protection
TBD
Sustainability
Fuel Efficiency
3/5
Tailpipe Emissions
3/5
Recyclability
TBD
Manufacturing Footprint
TBD
Experience Style
Driver Engagement
4/5
Customization Options
5/5
Ease of Use
3/5
Ownership Convenience
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
7 Questions
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