Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is available in six models: S 500, S 560, S580, AMG S 63, Maybach S 580, and S 580e. Each model is set apart by their engine, with the AMG model driving performance to the upper limits. The S 500 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0L 6-cylinder engine making 429 horsepower, while the S 560 employs a turbocharged 4.0L V8 producing 463 horsepower. The AMG S 63 gets a significant increase in performance, powered by a 4.0L turbocharged V8 making 603 horsepower and 664 lb-feet of torque. The Maybach S 580 tops the lineup with a 4.0L turbocharged V8 with 496 horsepower and 516 lb-feet of torque. The S 580e is powered by 3L turbocharged 6-cylinder producing 510 horsepower when combined with the electric motors. The S-Class sends power to the wheels through a 9-speed multi-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission offering multiple driving modes. Rear-wheel drive is only available in the S 560, while all other models come standard with the Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
The S-Class S 500 is a hybrid combining the 4L engine with an electric motor for 450 horsepower. Fuel economy is obviously markedly improved over other models, even though it is a large car.
Performance and handling in the S-Class is second to none. Multimode drive selection allows drivers to select from four different modes to change throttle response, shifting and steering control as desired. The expected comfortable ride is achieved through Mercedes' AIRMATIC suspension and adaptive damping system. Magic Body Control is an optional feature in the S-Class; it scans the road surface and changes the suspension settings to suit the surface and your own desired level of comfort and control.
The AMG S63 gets a special AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension that's tuned to make the most of the all-wheel drive system's capability and this car's more performance-oriented setup.
The S-Class, being the true luxury sedan that it is, has a long list of standard features and an array of additional options available. Standard features include LED exterior lighting, panorama roof, wood/leather steering wheel, heated power leather seats, soft-close doors, dual-zone climate control, cabin fragrance system, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, Burmester surround sound system, 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sirius XM, navigation and inductive wireless charging. Some of the many optional features include larger wheels, ventilated seats, heated and ventilated rear seats, massage seats, heated and cooled cup holders, heated windshield, upgraded sound system and rear seat entertainment system.
Personalization options on the AMG model include a carbon fiber package, a wood and Napa leather-wrapped steering wheel, the ceramic-brake upgrade, red brake calipers and special carbon fiber and black piano lacquer trim.
Safety takes center stage in the S-Class, once again. As part of a Driver Assistance Package, prospective buyers can add the DISTRONIC PLUS radar-based cruise control, PRE-SAFE autonomous braking, the PRE-SAFE PLUS rear-facing radar warning system, BAS PLUS with Cross Traffic Assist (using stereoscopic cameras to help prevent an accident), Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Protection. There's also Night View Assist Plus, a feature that continues to be refined, and uses infrared and camera information to detect animals and people along the road ahead.