Overview

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-class is a moving exhibit of the brand's newest technology and a personal limo for the ultra-rich. Mercedes' legendary sedan not only has an interior made of the best materials, but it also has enormous OLED dashboard screens, a 3D display, and navigation with augmented reality. The S-smooth class's acceleration is provided by a 429-hp straight-six (S500) or a 496-hp V-8 in addition to standard all-wheel drive (S580). The best seats are in the back since driving either model is more about solitude and pleasure than the thrill. Still, even with the optional rear-axle steering, this large barge manages to maneuver through traffic and around curves with astonishing agility.

Engine, Transmission, Performance

The S500 and S580 sedans from Mercedes are available with either a 429-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine or a 496-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8. A 48-volt hybrid system (dubbed EQ Boost) is added to both powertrains, and they are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid vehicle with a range of around 60 miles on pure electricity will also be available. The gas-powered vehicle was tested in the United States and at its home in Germany, showcasing its various steering and suspension settings. The E-Active Body Control offers a "curve" function that gently leans the car into curves, even though every model rides on air suspension. The big-bodied Merc is surprisingly simple and maneuverable in confined quarters thanks to the S-optional class's all-wheel steering system.

Interior, Comfort, Cargo

The S-class prioritizes screens inside. Numerous them. Up to five options, including a massive center touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, are available for the sedan. Together with other technologies, the latter produces a three-dimensional impression, but happily, you can turn it off if you'd use the screens instead to look more traditional.

Additionally, an upgraded head-up display will provide augmented reality navigation instructions. Real-time arrows turn and move to presumably better aid the motorist. The sedan's construction quality and interior materials are up to Mercedes' upmarket standards, and all passengers, especially those in the back, have amenities akin to those in a limousine. The new model's rear seats have more head and leg room, and power-adjustable reclining chairs with massaging features and extensive heating components are an option. The optional rear-seat entertainment system, which adds two 11.6-inch displays to the front seatbacks and interactive LED interior lighting, should provide passengers in the back with both physical comfort and cerebral enjoyment.