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The Mercedes S-Class Sedan has a cabin as opulent as a royal palace. The cabin has many hi-tech features that would make Silicon Valley blush. Also, it is as nimble as much smaller vehicles. The S-Class Sedan represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing of quality luxury automobiles.
There are many high-tech features discovered in the huge, plush cabin. These include high-resolution OLED displays interfaced with the Mercedes-Benz MBUX Interior Assist technology.
The advanced MBUX technology reacts to hand gestures for controlling certain display functions. It also can save individual preferences based on the driver or passenger.
The S-Class platform rides on the E-Active Body Control suspension. The active control system dampens each wheel to maximize ride comfort for a smooth ride. Also, the E-Active Body Control system delivers a stable driving and riding environment.
The plush interior upscale materials and the Mercedes-Benz build quality inside the S-Class. The limousine-like accommodations include up to five OLED displays. Two displays are in the rear-seat area.
Also found in the rear seat area are reclining and massaging seats with heating elements. Also, rear seat passengers will stay entertained with their rear area entertainment system.
The sculpted S-Class exterior has a stately, classic body. The powertrain delivers effortless power for the S-Class cruising on the highway.
The S500 model has a turbocharged 429 horsepower 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. The S580 model has a 496 horsepower twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8.
Both vehicles have 4-Matic all-wheel-drive and a 48-volt hybrid system called E-Boost. The S500 has a 9-60 time of 3.7 seconds and a highway mileage rating of 30 MPG.
The S50 is $112,150, and the S580 at $118,750. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan is a gorgeous automobile, but it has competitors. My top three are the Genesis G90, BMW 7-Series, and the long-wheelbase Audi 8 L.
Competitive Alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class
My three personal favorite alternative vehicles
1. Genesis G90
The Genesis brand flagship vehicle is the Genesis G90 and is a formidable competitor to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan. The Genesis G90 has a spacious and well-appointed cabin with quality leather trim.
Also, the G90 has a sophisticated ride expected of upscale luxury automobiles. The ride is smooth, quiet, and elegant yet has a responsive quickness for such a large vehicle.
The cabin has the latest cutting-edge technology and many driver-assist features. Then, too, the Genesis G90 has a luxurious build quality that is not quite up to the level of the S-Class. Also, it has excellent pricing for such a spacious, luxurious ride.
The standard G90 engine is a smooth, 365 horsepower, 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V-6. Also available is a 420 horsepower 5.0-liter V-8.
- 0-60 Time: 5.0 seconds
- Pricing: $76,045 – $79,795
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
2. BMW 7-Series
The BMW 7-Series has extended length and is a luxury automobile with opulent luxury. The 7-Series is an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The 7-Series focuses more on comfortable highway cruising with isolated road noise.
BMW usually focuses more on performance-oriented automobiles. But with that said, the 7-Series is still quick and agile, especially for such a large vehicle.
BMW’s luxurious cabin has burled walnut trim and rich Nappa leather upholstery. Also, the cabin has a panoramic roof, massaging seats, and heads-up digital dash display. Also, the rear seats have their own 7′ tablet computers.
The entry-level model has a silky-smooth 320-horsepower turbocharged inline-six depending on the trim. Or, for those wanting more performance, opt for the 601 horsepower twin-turbo V-12. The massive powertrain delivers enormous amounts of velvety smooth power on demand.
- 0-60 Time: 4.0 seconds
- Pricing: $87,795 – $158,795
- Mileage (highway): 29 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
3. Audi 8L
Instead of having a head-turning design, the extended Audi 8L has a more classy look. As a result, the 8L is an excellent alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan. The vast cabin has luxurious materials and the latest technological features. Being chauffeured is a pleasure, thanks to the smooth ride and quiet cabin.
Rear set passengers have the royal treatment. The optional adjustable rear seats feature heating, ventilation, and heated foot massagers. Also included in keeping passengers connected to the world are computer tablets.
The Audi 8L trim comes with a turbocharged 335 horsepower V-6, boosted by a 48-volt hybrid system.
- 0-60 Time: 5.3 seconds
- Pricing: $87,595
- Mileage (highway): 28 MPG
- Passengers: 4/5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Hybrid
Other Mercedes-Benz S-Class alternatives to consider
Other full-size luxury sedans compete with S-Class vehicles.
4. Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 has a clean look and is an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedans. Also, the cabin delivers comfort and function for the passengers’ enjoyment.
The S90’s functional and distinctive design differs from vehicles with a European style. The luxurious cabin wraps the passenger in comfort with upscale amenities.
The interior amenities include open-pore wood trim and genuine leather. It also has brushed metal accents and detailed plastic finishing.
The standard S90 powertrain is a B6 platform. The B6 powertrain has a 295 horsepower supercharged 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine.
The engine has a boost with a 48-volt electric motor hybrid drivetrain. If there needs to be more performance, the S90 Recharge model boosts the engine up to 455 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 6.4 seconds
- Pricing: $59,595 – $69,140
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
5. Lexus LS
An excellent alternative to the S-Class sedans is the Lexus LS. Built upon Lexus standards, the Lexus LS is the epitome of Lexus luxury and refinement.
The LS cabin has plenty of the latest hi-tech features. For example, the driver connects to the car’s controls via voice commands or touch screens. Also, the cabin features glass inserts, pleated door panels, and rich wood trim.
The base LS engine is a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 creating 416 horsepower. The powertrain uses a 10-speed automatic transmission. Also, there is an option for a hybrid 3.5-liter V-6 coupled with electric motors to generate 354 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 4.8 seconds
- Pricing: $77,175 – $113,075
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
6. Porsche Panamera
The Porsche Panamera is luxurious and competes with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The ultra-luxury Panamera has an opulent cabin loaded with cutting-edge technology.
The Porsche Panamera also has an excellent price point for such a luxurious vehicle.
The Panamera lives up to its Porsche heritage of excellent road handling. The interior has upscale materials to cradle the passenger in luxury. Also, the cabin has all the latest driver’s assist features.
The standard 2.9-liter V-6 engine produces 325 horsepower. The Panamera is available in all-wheel or rear-wheel drive configurations.
The Panamera 4S model creates 440 horsepower if you want more power. Also, there are two hybrid models, the 4E-Hybrid and the 4S-E-Hybrid. The 4E-Hybrid generates 462 horsepower, and the 4S-E-Hybrid creates 552 horsepower.
- 0-60 Time: 3.6 seconds
- Pricing: $89,750 – $132,050
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passenger: 4
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
7. Maserati Ghibli
The Ghibli, with an Italian-inspired look, competes with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Maserati Ghibli is an exotic, spirited Italian luxury car but not as upscale as the S-Class. But you may prefer excitement instead of refinement. The Ghibli has plenty of both, and the Maserati delivers the goods.
The Ghibli has an exhilarating driving experience and an eye-catching style. A gorgeous interior completes the Italian look. A Maserati Ghibli should be in the conversation when considering high-end luxury cars.
The base Ghibli engine is a spirited 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 creating 345 horsepower. The Ghibli can also produce 424 horsepower with different trim levels. But if power is the real goal, opt for the 580 horsepower 3.8-liter V-8 powertrain.
- 0-60 Time: 3.7 seconds
- Pricing: $77,695 – $115,795
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
8. Audi A7
The Audi A7 has reasonable pricing, an eye-catching design, and excellent highway performance. The Audi A7 is another alternative to the S-Class.
It has luxurious and high-end technical innovations, including cutting-edge rear-wheel steering. The Audi A7 has the appearance of being a fast car, and it is.
The cabin is upscale with luxurious features and a voice-activated entertainment center. The A7 can seat four or five passengers, depending on the cabin configuration.
The 4.0-liter V-8 engine uses a hybrid 48-volt powertrain for a power boost. The combination of power sources generates a heart-thumping 591 horsepower. An advanced air suspension system controls power. Also, the A7 has an advanced rear-wheel driving system.
- 0-60 Time: 3.0 seconds
- Pricing: $119,595
- Mileage (highway/driving range): 23 MPG/440 miles
- Passenger: 4/5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
9. Lincoln Continental
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The full-sized luxury sedan Lincoln Continental is another alternative to consider. It is a worthy competitor to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Continental has a quality build with luxurious materials and is worthy of consideration.
A generous cabin seats up to five passengers with plush leather upholstery. The cabin also has an advanced infotainment system and a panoramic sunroof. The Continental has many drivers assist features. And standard features with advanced electronics. The classical Lincoln’s exterior challenges the German design for full-size luxury sedans.
The standard Continental engine is a twin-turbo 400 horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Power is by an available all-wheel drive system with Dynamic Torque Vectoring.
- 0-60 Time: 5.1 seconds
- Pricing: $46,350 – $75,470
- Mileage (highway/driving range): 25 MPG
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
Electric Vehicles (EV) Competing with Mercedes Benz S-Class
While compiling this list of competitive full-size luxury vehicles, one thing became clearer. The future for luxury vehicles will be electric vehicles. These are some of the best EV alternatives to the S-Class sedans.
10. Lucid Air
The Lucid Air is the first production vehicle by Lucid Motors and has done many things right. The Air is an alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Lucid Air has many upscale appointments and technological features. Also, the Air has a huge glass canopy to create a feeling of driving in the “open air.”
Perfect for carrying the family and all the required baggage due to its huge cargo space. Comfortable and entertaining for trips courtesy of many sophisticated technologies. These include speech recognition to control many infotainment functions. Also, the rear seat pampers passengers with Executive Rear Seating. The rear seats are reclining with lower and upper digital touch displays.
The Lucid Air standard electric motor generates 480 horsepower. And the all-wheel drive model creates 620 horsepower. But, what if we want more performance? The Grand Touring trim generates a thundering 1,050 horsepower. Still not satisfied? How about the Air Dream Edition Performance model with 1,111 horsepower?
- 0-60 Time: 3.0 seconds
- Pricing: $89,050 – $180,650
- Mileage (electric/driving range): 520 miles (Dream Edition Range)
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Electric
11. Mercedes-Benz EQS
A new member of the Mercedes-Benz family of automobiles is the Mercedes-Benz EQS. The new electric vehicle is a formidable alternative to the S-Class sedans. The new flagship EV will be the future for Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles. The EQS has a sleek exterior to create a low drag coefficient and improves power consumption.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS loaded with the latest technology. The technology includes the innovative MBUX Hyper Screen. The new Mercedes-Benz Hyper Screen is unique in that it covers the width of the EQS dash. The hyper screen can segment for different functions.
Displaying digital gauges and infotainment controls are for use by the driver. The passenger also can configure a screen for their personal preferences. The huge cabin features luxurious materials, trim, and many driver-assist features.
The rear wheel powertrain generates 329 horsepower for the full-size luxury sedan. More horsepower is available with the all-wheel drive system producing 516 horsepower. Power for the electric motors is courtesy of a 107.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. The electrical system uses regenerative braking technology to recapture lost braking energy.
- 0-60 Time: 3.7 seconds
- Pricing: $103,360 – $148,995
- Mileage (electric/driving range): 97 MPGe/320 miles
- Passenger: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Electric
12. Tesla Model S
An alternative to the S-Class is the Tesla Model S. The new electric Model S from the EV industry leader, Tesla. The Model S represents the best of Tesla technology.
The Model S is a luxury, full-size sedan that focuses more on performance than an opulent luxury. Yet, the minimalist cabin design does have high-quality materials. Also, there are many hi-tech features, including the Tesla semi-autonomous driving mode.
Where the Tesla Model S shines is in the performance arena. The all-wheel-drive system with electric motors on each wheel generates tremendous power. The Model S is quick and has ridiculous 0-60 times.
But if speed and performance are what you want, then opt for the Tesla Plaid. The Plaid trim produces a thundering 1,020 horsepower. And, of course, the Tesla Plaid is a heart-pumping quick.
- 0-60 Time: 2.1 seconds (Plaid model)
- Pricing: $106,440 – $137,440
- Mileage (electric/driving range): 96 MPGe/396 miles
- Passenger: 4
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Electric
Frequently Asked Mercedes-Benz S-Class Questions
What is the seating capacity of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The S-Class seats five passengers in comfort.
What is the curb weight of the S-Class?
Depending on the model, from 4,310 lbs. to 5,000 lbs.
Does the S-Class need premium fuel?
Yes, premium fuel is recommended.
Is the S-Class expensive to maintain?
The Mercedes S-Class’s annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than other luxury sedans. The yearly maintenance cost for the Mercedes S-Class averages around $908 a year.
How much horsepower does the S-Class have?
Depending on the trim levels, the S-Class has 429 – 496 horsepower.
What are the safety features of the Mercedes S-Class?
The S-Class has many safety features, including:
- Automated self-parking technology
- Preventative collision technology
- Rear seat airbags
- The active Suspension System raises the vehicle in the event of a collision to lessen the impact
- Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assists with lane departure warnings
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
What is the Mercedes MBUX system?
The revolutionary MBUX (Mercedes Benz User Experience) is a voice-powered infotainment system. Artificial intelligence (AI) connects to a high-resolution OLED screen interface.
The system learns user experiences and configures itself for individual preferences. For example, the intelligent digital dash display learns personal preferences to configure MBUX.
What does the S-Class designation mean?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is named after the German word Sonderklasse. This German word means “special class” and abbreviates to S-Klasse.” The S-Class designation includes a full line of Mercedes vehicles. These include full-sized sedans, limousines, and armored sedans.