2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The Mercedes-Benz S-class maintains superiority by being the full-size luxury sedan by which all others are judged. The S-class satisfies the tastes of its moneyed clientele with stacks of fine materials, deep-seated comfort, and loads of technology. There are two models, both equipped with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive—the S500 and S580—each with an exclusive powertrain. The S500 comes with a silken, 429-hp turbocharged straight-six, while the S580 bosses up with a smooth 496-hp V-8. The plug-in hybrid S580e makes 510 horsepower and can travel around 40 miles or so on electricity alone. The Mercedes-Maybach S-class super-luxury model, reviewed separately, offers an absolutely decadent experience. Although the S-class's priority to comfort and swankiness is obvious from the thick leather thrones in the front and rear rows, its standard air suspension completes the experience by turning the road to velvet. And the optional E-Active Body Control will even lean the car into corners to help you avoid spilling any of your champagne cocktail—which you are enjoying in the comfort of the available power-adjustable, reclining rear seats with their heated massage function. The S-class does a brilliant job of making the good life real.