CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 220
Average Price: Around £27,800

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Hugely desirable and luxurious	The S-Class tends to depreciate heavily
Tech-heavy interior	Expensive to buy
Tax-efficient plug-in hybrid	Fiddly touch-sensitive controls

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021-present) remains the benchmark for luxury saloons, offering a sumptuous ride quality courtesy of its air suspension and remarkable handling that belies its size and weight. The seventh-generation model features a tech-heavy interior dominated by a portrait-oriented OLED touchscreen, open-pore wood trim, and touch-sensitive steering wheel controls. Available in multiple wheelbase lengths and engine options—from the efficient S350d diesel to the powerful S500 petrol and tax-efficient plug-in hybrid—the S-Class delivers effortless performance and low-down grunt across its range. Space is abundant throughout, with generous head, leg, and elbow room for all occupants and a vast boot.

However, the S-Class isn't without its quirks. The touch-sensitive controls are small and fiddly, requiring absolute steering wheel stillness to operate effectively, whilst the large head-up display can obstruct your view of the road, particularly when using augmented reality satellite navigation. Running costs are substantial, with servicing at Mercedes dealers among the highest around, though the metal timing chain should theoretically last the car's lifetime. Despite these niggles, a carefully chosen mid-range model remains one of the finest cars in the world, combining lavish comfort with precise handling and cutting-edge technology.

Best for: Luxury car enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in prestige and technology, those prioritising comfort and refinement, and buyers interested in tax-efficient plug-in hybrid options.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers concerned about depreciation and running costs, those seeking simplicity in vehicle controls, or drivers who value straightforward usability over technological innovation.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the S-Class if: You're seeking the ultimate in luxury and prestige, prioritise comfort and refinement, or are interested in a tax-efficient plug-in hybrid option.

Consider alternatives if: You're concerned about depreciation and running costs, value simplicity in vehicle controls, or prefer straightforward usability over technological innovation.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021-present) remains the benchmark for luxury saloons, offering exceptional comfort, precise handling, and cutting-edge technology. Whilst the Audi A8 offers slightly better value for money and the BMW 7 Series provides a more traditional luxury experience, the S-Class delivers the most desirable and tech-forward package. The Range Rover appeals to those seeking luxury in SUV form. For buyers willing to invest in premium luxury and accept the associated running costs, the S-Class is still one of the finest cars in the world, though careful model selection is essential to avoid the entry-level S350d's floaty ride quality.

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*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.