2023-09-30 12:49:11
Introduction
For many years, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has set the standard in the luxury sedan segment and the current model, introduced in 2021, is no exception.
With its high levels of luxury, cutting-edge technology and a near-perfect balance between performance and comfort, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sets the bar high for its competitors.
The S-Class has only been redesigned for two years, so the changes for 2023 are relatively minor. The biggest change is the introduction of the S 580e plug-in hybrid model.
Styles and options
The 2023 S-Class is currently available in three trim levels, each equipped as standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive: the S500, S580 and a new S580e plug-in hybrid variant.
An even more luxurious Mercedes-Maybach S 680 is also available.
Power train
The S500 comes with a silky 429-horsepower turbocharged inline-six, while the S580 (the one I tested) comes out on top with a smooth V-8 with 496 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.
On the other hand, the S580e plug-in hybrid delivers 510 horsepower and can travel about 58 miles on electricity alone.
Interior style
The interior is impressive, but using and operating all of the S-Class’s features and technologies can require a learning curve. MBUX, Mercedes’ infotainment system, is updated with a larger screen that houses even more of the car’s functions and reduces controls dedicated to things like volume adjustment.
The menu system is deep, but intuitive and easy to use. Plus, that big screen is well placed and easy to reach thanks to the S-Class’ excellent driving position.
The surprisingly good outward visibility allows you to perceive the car’s large dimensions at all times. The doors open to a huge cabin with plenty of leg, head and shoulder room.
Despite being nearly the longest vehicle in its class, the S-Class ranks near the bottom in terms of cargo space, with just 12.9 cubic feet. That said, the available space is deep and easy to reach inside. Storage in the cabin is much better.
Luxury cars often lack small storage spaces, but there are plenty of places in the 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 space helps with rear-facing seating, although that’s true for the competition, too.
Technology
The S-Class has always been one of the most technological 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 also a handful of USB-C ports.
The head-up display will show navigation directions, even if you use Apple Maps. For those who use them, the voice controls work well and understand natural language.
My test car was equipped with the Burmester audio system. It’s not cheap, but it may be the best sound system you can get in a car today.
But it’s not all screens and sound. The S-Class is available with a host of driver aids. Although there is no hands-free mode, the one that exists works without problems and is easy to activate.
Security
Factory-installed features include Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, Active Lane Keep Assist, Lane Change Assist, Active Steering Assist, Attention Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring , the evasive steering assistant and Mercedes Pre-Safe.
On the highway
The S-Class has never been so sporty. Comfortable and fast, yes, but not so attractive. That has changed with this latest generation.
In the V8-powered car I tested, acceleration is impressively smooth, and the generous low-end torque means you don’t have to try too hard to overtake 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 in corners. Optional rear-axle steering improves high-speed stability and makes parking easier, another benefit for performance and comfort.
The S-Class is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable vehicles on the road. My test car 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 as comfortable as the front.
It’s also quiet and refined. It’s not as quiet at idle as other sedans, but it’s still relatively insulating.
The S-Class maintains the same level of insulation at any speed. Although there is a small amount of wind and road noise, the S-Class is very quiet even at highway speeds.
Conclusion
When it comes to comfort and refinement on four wheels, there’s nothing better than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The interior stands out for its premium design and almost all of Mercedes’ technological features are standard or optional.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is more expensive than its rivals, but it also offers a bit more refinement than those cars.
Precio: From US$125,150
Consumption: 16 mpg city – 25 mpg highway
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