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2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review: Pricing, Trim Levels, New Standard Features & More

21.06.2021

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The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the German automaker's sleek flagship sedan, will enter the new model year with some packaging and trim level changes. The 2021 S-Class will be available in three trim levels, or "lines," and each will be assigned accordingly. Luxury Line and AMG Line will be available for the S 500 4MATIC sedan. The third trim level, Executive Line, is exclusive to the S 580 4MATIC sedan.

Technology and Connectivity

The second-generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system is standard on every 2021 S-Class. According to Mercedes-Benz, the system offers 50 percent more processing power than before. Individual MBUX profiles can be activated using touch, voice, or face recognition. Further personalization is provided with a 12.8-inch OLED multimedia touch display that supports up to five different screens simultaneously.

LED ambient lighting is also standard, so drivers can set the mood during a nighttime drive. Passengers also get access to an air-scented climate system, multi-contour massaging front seats, rear sun visors and wireless charging.

The all-new Burmester 4D surround sound system will debut in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The performance of this stereo system is as impressive as the motor: 1750W of power, 37 separately processed output channels, two amplifiers, eight resonators and 30 speakers. Two of those eight resonators are built into the back of each seat for more immersion. Turn on the watercolor and it will look like Grover Washington Jr. and Dave Brubeck are riding with you (rest their souls).

"Interior The interior of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Photo: MBUSA.

Standard security features

Safety features in the new S-Class include a 360-degree Surround Camera with 3D View Assist to assist with parking. According to Mercedes-Benz, advanced driver assistance systems and collision sensors allow the PRE-SAFE feature to recognize a potential collision in more situations than before.

The ATTENTION ASSIST feature now offers microsleep alert to combat drowsy driving. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features an internal infrared camera that monitors driver distraction and drowsiness levels.

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: under the hood

The Mercedes-Benz S 500 4MATIC uses an inline-six with 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft. torque. Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz S 580 4MATIC is powered by a 495 horsepower, 516 lb-ft twin-cylinder V8 engine. torque. Both feature an EQ Boost starter-alternator that delivers an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. torque for short periods for more linear acceleration.

Rear axle steering is available and we recommend this option. The steerable rear axle reduces the turning radius of the larger S-Class by 6.2 feet. Rear axle steering makes the S-Class much easier to maneuver in a busy city or small residential area.

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class under the hood. Photo: MBUSA.

Trim levels and prices

Here's a look at what's available on S-Class lines beyond the standard equipment. MSRP figures include destination and $1,050 shipping.

luxury line

It's hard to go wrong here. Options for the Luxury Line include the Burmester 4D Surround system, the 3D technology package with 3D instrument cluster and head-up display with augmented reality MBUX, and the Warmth & Comfort package. The latter includes a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and even heated front and rear armrests, among other amenities.

Nappa leather upholstery is available to spruce up the interior, while 20-inch wheels are available to accentuate the exterior.

Sedan S 500 4MATIC. Starting recommended price: $110,850.
S 580 4MATIC Sedan Starting MSRP: $117,350.

AMG line

There is nothing better than an AMG treatment! Choose this S-Class and get unique AMG styling and floor mats. The Burmester stereo, 3D Technology package and Warmth & Comfort package are also available for the AMG Line. 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are available, each with black inserts, as part of the Night Package.

S 500 4MATIC Sedan. Starting recommended price: $115,150.
S 580 4MATIC Sedan starting MSRP: $121,650.

executive line

With a shield or on a shield! The Executive Line, exclusive to the S 580 4MATIC sedan, can be optionally equipped with multi-contour rear seats, four-zone climate control, rear wireless charging, an MBUX rear tablet with two wireless headsets, and an MBUX rear seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch touch screen with HD camera and microphone.

Like Luxury and AMG, Warmth & Comfort packages, 3D Technology Package and Burmester stereo are available. Exclusive Nappa leather upholstery, 20-inch wheels and rear axle steering are also available.

S 580 4MATIC Sedan Starting MSRP: $132,500.

"Mercedes-Benz The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is available with rear wheel steering. Photo: MBUSA.

S-Class 2021: availability and warranty

The new S-Class will arrive at Mercedes-Benz dealers in the first half of 2021. In terms of warranty, the Mercedes-Benz factory warranty is four years or 50,000 miles, but can be extended if you plan on driving more than average miles. This will provide additional protection for things like rear axle steering, which can be expensive to repair. This free and helpful guide will help you determine if you need additional coverage for your S-Class.

Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of BlogAvto and a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Society of Automotive Historians. He is on the board of directors of the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, a former president of the Detroit Working Writers, and a devoted fan of the Detroit Lions.