The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrives as the benchmark for luxury sedans, continuing its legacy of innovation and opulence. Building upon a recent redesign, the latest S-Class elevates the standards of in-car technology, performance, and passenger comfort. For discerning drivers seeking the pinnacle of automotive refinement, the 2022 Mercedes S Class remains a compelling choice, blending traditional luxury with cutting-edge advancements.
Pros
- Powerful and efficient engine options
- Sumptuous interior with advanced technology integration
- Exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin experience
- Enhanced maneuverability with rear-wheel steering
Cons
- Certain driver assistance features offer questionable real-world benefit
- Comfort-focused ride may feel overly soft in specific settings
- Braking distances are slightly extended with all-season tires
What’s New
- Introduction of E-Active Body Control adaptive suspension as an available option
- Expanded palette of paint and trim choices for personalization
- Continues as part of the seventh-generation S-Class, launched in 2021
Overview
The 2022 Mercedes S Class emerges from a comprehensive redesign, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury automotive segment. Last year’s overhaul brought sweeping improvements across the board, from sophisticated in-cabin technology to refined on-road dynamics. As a relatively new iteration, significant alterations for the 2022 model year are minimal. However, the highly anticipated E-Active Body Control adaptive suspension becomes available, promising to further enhance ride quality and handling. This sophisticated system proactively adjusts to road conditions, even leaning the vehicle into corners for unparalleled stability and smoothness.
While the 2022 Mercedes S Class stands as an exceptional vehicle, the luxury sedan market presents a competitive landscape. Rivals such as the BMW 7 Series, a long-standing competitor, alongside the Audi A8, Genesis G90, Lexus LS, and Porsche Panamera, each vie for discerning buyers. Many of these alternatives offer a lower starting price point, though option packages can quickly escalate costs, particularly with European marques like Audi, BMW, and Porsche. Despite the competition, the Mercedes S-Class possesses an intangible quality, a unique blend of prestige and engineering excellence that sets it apart. For a comprehensive assessment, delve into the detailed Expert Rating provided by our test team.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Great
8.5/10
edmunds TESTED
The redesigned 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class unequivocally sets a new benchmark for comfort and refinement in the automotive world. Building upon the already impressive foundation of its predecessor, this iteration elevates nearly every facet of the luxury driving experience. The interior showcases enhanced premium materials and superior craftsmanship, while advancements in in-car technology and driver assistance systems are seamlessly integrated. Furthermore, improvements to both ride quality and handling contribute to an unparalleled sense of poise and control. Although carrying a higher price tag than its competitors, the 2022 Mercedes S Class justifies its premium with an elevated level of polish and sophistication that remains unmatched.
Rated for you by America’s best test team.
Performance
8.5/10
How does the 2022 Mercedes S Class perform on the road? Traditionally, the S-Class, excluding AMG variants, has prioritized comfort and effortless power over outright sportiness. However, the latest model strikes a more dynamic balance. The V8 engine, now augmented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivers increased power and responsiveness. This mild-hybrid technology not only improves fuel efficiency but also provides seamless power delivery during initial acceleration, smoothing out the transitions of the nine-speed automatic transmission. Abundant low-end torque ensures effortless highway passing maneuvers without requiring aggressive throttle input.
The powerful engine of the 2022 Mercedes S Class, showcasing its blend of performance and efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz engineers have successfully imbued the 2022 Mercedes S Class with a newfound sense of athleticism without compromising its signature comfort. The air suspension system maintains a composed and smooth ride even when navigating winding roads. In Sport+ driving mode, the suspension lowers by up to 0.7 inches, enhancing handling agility. The optional rear-axle steering system further contributes to both high-speed stability and low-speed maneuverability, simplifying parking and improving overall driving dynamics, a true win-win for both performance and everyday convenience.
Comfort
9/10
How comfortable is the 2022 Mercedes S Class for passengers? The previous generation S-Class already held a reputation as one of the most comfortable vehicles available. The new model largely maintains this exceptional level of comfort, which is a testament to its inherent strengths. Standard heated and massaging front seats provide unparalleled comfort, featuring supportive yet plush cushioning and extensive adjustability to cater to individual preferences. Our test vehicle was equipped with optional packages that included power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging rear seats with a reclining footrest, elevating rear passenger experience to first-class levels. Heated armrests and four-zone climate control further enhance rear seat comfort, mirroring the luxurious experience offered to front occupants.
The interior of the 2022 Mercedes S Class, emphasizing the luxurious comfort and spaciousness for passengers.
The 2022 Mercedes S Class excels in providing a serene and refined cabin environment. While not completely silent at idle compared to some competitors, it offers exceptional noise isolation across a wide range of driving conditions. The remarkable aspect is the consistent level of isolation maintained regardless of speed. Wind and road noise are minimal, rendering the S-Class whisper-quiet, even at highway speeds, creating a tranquil sanctuary for both driver and passengers.
Interior
8.5/10
What is the interior like in the 2022 Mercedes S Class? The cabin of the 2022 Mercedes S Class is visually stunning, showcasing exquisite materials and meticulous attention to detail. However, mastering the extensive array of features and technology may require a slight learning curve. Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system receives an update with a larger, more prominent touchscreen that centralizes many vehicle functions, reducing the reliance on physical buttons to essential controls like volume adjustment. Despite the depth of the menu system, it remains intuitive and user-friendly. The expansive touchscreen is strategically positioned and easily accessible from the S-Class’s excellent driving position. The driving position itself is relaxed and comfortable, and surprisingly good outward visibility for a vehicle of this size provides the driver with a confident sense of the car’s dimensions.
A look at the stunning interior of the 2022 Mercedes S Class, highlighting the luxurious design and advanced technology integration.
Generous door openings reveal a massive cabin with abundant legroom, headroom, and shoulder room for all occupants. The 2022 Mercedes S Class prioritizes passenger space, ensuring a comfortable and unconfined experience, even on long journeys.
Technology
9/10
How technologically advanced is the 2022 Mercedes S Class? The S-Class has consistently been at the forefront of in-car technology, and the 2022 Mercedes S Class continues this tradition. While not introducing revolutionary features compared to its immediate predecessor, the new model refines and updates existing technology and driver assistance systems. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, come standard across all trims. Multiple USB-C ports are also conveniently located throughout the cabin. The head-up display seamlessly integrates navigation directions, even when using Apple Maps. Voice controls are highly effective, understanding natural language commands for intuitive operation. Our test vehicle featured the optional high-end Burmester audio system, a significant investment but potentially the finest sound system currently available in any automobile.
Beyond infotainment, the 2022 Mercedes S Class offers a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. While not yet offering a fully hands-free driving mode, the available systems operate smoothly and are easily engaged, enhancing safety and driver confidence.
Storage
8/10
How practical is the 2022 Mercedes S Class in terms of storage? Despite its substantial size, the 2022 Mercedes S Class offers slightly less cargo space compared to some rivals in its class. The 12.9 cubic feet of trunk space is less than the BMW 7 Series or Porsche Panamera. However, the available space is deep and easily accessible. In-cabin storage is considerably more generous. Luxury vehicles often compromise on small-item storage, but the S-Class provides ample compartments in the front cabin for water bottles, phones, sunglasses, and other everyday essentials. Installing child car seats should be relatively straightforward thanks to wide door openings and the abundance of rear seat space, a characteristic shared with its competitors.
Fuel Economy
8/10
What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Mercedes S Class? The Mercedes-Benz S 580 4Matic achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 20 mpg (17 city/25 highway). In Edmunds’ 115-mile real-world evaluation loop, an impressive 23.7 mpg was observed. This fuel efficiency surpasses many V8-powered competitors, partially attributed to Mercedes-Benz’s EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which enhances both performance and economy.
Value
8/10
Is the 2022 Mercedes S Class a good value proposition? Few vehicles on the market can rival the level of luxury and premium appointments offered by the 2022 Mercedes S Class. Every tactile surface and visual element exudes meticulous design and high-quality execution. Soft leather and substantial, well-weighted controls contribute to an overall impression of solidity and refinement. However, this level of luxury comes at a premium. The base S 500 4Matic starts at $110,850, while the V8-powered S 580 4Matic begins at $117,350. Both are priced higher than comparable Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, or Lexus LS 500 models, though arguably, none quite match the overall polish and prestige of the S-Class. Our fully-optioned test vehicle reached an MSRP of $147,590.
Mercedes-Benz provides a four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain, and rust warranty, aligning with the industry average for this class. Roadside assistance is also included for four years/50,000 miles. However, unlike some competitors, complimentary scheduled maintenance visits are not included.
Wildcard
8.5/10
In contrast to more overtly styled rivals like the BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the 2022 Mercedes S Class adopts a more understated and elegant aesthetic that doesn’t demand attention. While some might perceive it as conservative, this design philosophy is intentional and part of its enduring appeal. Upon entering the cabin, however, the S-Class immediately impresses with its handsome and technologically advanced interior. The driving experience further enhances its appeal. While not a dedicated sport sedan in the mold of the Porsche Panamera, the S-Class handles with surprising agility. The engine is a standout feature, delivering smooth and effortless power. Lower the air suspension, activate the massaging seats, and enjoy the refined V8 engine – the 2022 Mercedes S Class provides a unique sense of charm and pleasure simply cruising in a large, supremely comfortable luxury sedan.
Which S-Class does Edmunds recommend?
While the turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine in the S 500 is highly capable, Edmunds recommends upgrading to the S 580 for its turbocharged V8 engine. The V8’s effortless power delivery feels more fitting for a luxury car in this class. In terms of trim, the Luxury Line provides an extensive list of standard features, but the Executive Line significantly enhances rear passenger comfort with its power-adjustable rear seats and additional amenities.
Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class trim levels Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Models
The 2022 Mercedes S Class is available in two primary trim levels: S 500 and S 580. The even more opulent Mercedes-Maybach S 680 is also available but is reviewed separately.
The S 500 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the S 580 features a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 generating 496 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models are equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (4Matic).
Luxury Line: The base trim for both engine options is the Luxury Line, which boasts an extensive list of standard equipment, including:
- 19-inch wheels
- Power trunklid
- Panoramic sunroof
- Air suspension
- Soft-close doors
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Dual-zone automatic climate control with fragrance atomizer
- Ambient interior lighting
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats
- Leather upholstery (S 500) / Premium leather upholstery (S 580)
- Power front and rear sunshades
- Navigation system with augmented reality
- 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless charging pad
- 15-speaker Burmester audio system
- Eight USB-C ports
The S 500 Luxury Line also includes a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane keeping system
- Automated lane-change assist
- Forward collision mitigation
- Evasive steering assist
- Safe exit assist
- Parking sensors
- Rear and cross-traffic automatic braking
- Front-mounted dashcam
- Automated parking system
- 360-degree camera system
AMG Line: This sporty appearance package builds upon the Luxury Line trim, adding:
- Sporty front and rear bumpers
- Choice of 19-, 20-, or 21-inch wheels
Executive Line: Exclusively available with the S 580 engine, the Executive Line enhances luxury and features:
- Rear-wheel steering (10-degree turning ability)
- Four-zone climate control
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front and rear armrests
- Rear neck heaters
- Heated, ventilated, massaging, and power-adjustable outboard rear seats
- Rear seat memory settings
- Rear entertainment system
- Rear wireless charging pad
- Rear control panel
- Rear airbags
Numerous packages and standalone options are available across the 2022 Mercedes S Class range, including:
- Warmth and Comfort package (Luxury and AMG Line)
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front and rear armrests
- Heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable outboard rear seats
- Rear seat memory settings
- 3D Technology package
- 3D instrument panel
- Head-up display
- Night package (AMG Line)
- Black exterior accents
- Rear-wheel steering (4.5-degree turning ability – AMG Line)
- Heated steering wheel (standalone)
- 30-speaker Burmester premium audio system (standalone)
- Wood and leather steering wheel (standalone)
- Upgraded premium leather upholstery (standalone)
- Wood, metal, or piano black veneers (standalone)
