Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale nearReading

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 250
Average Price: Around £27,000

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Hugely desirable and luxurious	Tends to depreciate heavily
Tech-heavy interior	Fiddly touch-sensitive controls
Tax-efficient plug-in hybrid models	Mercedes doesn't do luxury like Bentley or Rolls-Royce

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the German brand's flagship luxury saloon and has long been the benchmark for premium vehicles. The seventh-generation model (W223), launched in 2020 and facelifted in January 2026, combines cutting-edge technology with sumptuous comfort. It features an air suspension system that delivers an exceptionally smooth ride, nimble handling that belies its size, and a lavishly appointed interior dominated by portrait-oriented OLED touchscreens. Available in multiple wheelbase lengths—short, long, and the ultra-opulent Maybach—it offers ample space for all occupants, with rear passengers enjoying up to 89cm of legroom in long-wheelbase versions.

The facelifted S-Class is available as a mild-hybrid S350d 4Matic diesel or petrol S500 4Matic, alongside full plug-in hybrid S450e and S580e 4Matic variants offering 60-68 miles of all-electric range. Pre-facelift models include additional petrol and diesel options, plus the thrilling AMG S63e Performance with 604bhp. Running costs are reasonable for the class, with the S350d achieving up to 44mpg and plug-in hybrids up to 36mpg. However, servicing costs are substantial, and the car depreciates significantly. Despite its screen-dominated cabin and fiddly controls, the S-Class remains one of the finest luxury cars available, offering unparalleled refinement and comfort for long-distance journeys.

Best for: Luxury-focused buyers seeking a prestigious, technologically advanced saloon with exceptional comfort and refinement; those valuing tax-efficient plug-in hybrid options; and drivers prioritising a smooth, quiet driving experience.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers concerned about depreciation and servicing costs; those preferring traditional luxury aesthetics over technology; or drivers frustrated by touch-sensitive controls and screen-based interfaces.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the S-Class if: You prioritise luxury, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional comfort; you value tax-efficient plug-in hybrid options; or you seek a prestigious saloon that insulates you from the outside world on long journeys.

Consider alternatives if: You're concerned about heavy depreciation and high servicing costs, prefer traditional luxury aesthetics, or find touch-sensitive controls frustrating and distracting.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz S-Class remains the benchmark luxury saloon, offering superior technology integration, refined handling, and unmatched comfort. Whilst the Range Rover and BMW 7 Series offer comparable user ratings and value propositions, the S-Class distinguishes itself through its tech-forward approach and plug-in hybrid efficiency. The Audi A8, though nearing the end of its lifecycle, remains a formidable competitor. The S-Class's higher depreciation is offset by its desirability, prestige, and the exceptional driving experience it delivers, making it the premier choice for luxury-focused buyers willing to invest in excellence.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

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