2027 Mercedes S-Class Initial Drive Assessment: Exceptional Performance Despite Debatable Display Design

No matter the brand, model, cost, or function, most vehicles are fundamentally just that: vehicles. Many distinguished nameplates hold great significance for fans, but only a select few embed themselves into the tapestry of automotive legacy. The S-Class stands among them, with a storied lineage filled with stunning and innovative models over its 140-year legacy. I recently experienced the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S500 for two days around northern Germany and came away with the impression that this luxury sedan’s dominance in the class is anything but concluded.

The S-Class has consistently been associated with elegance, affluence, and top-tier accommodations. Its presence emanates sophisticated flair. While it’s not a widely-used term in the U.S., it’s common in Europe to designate a premium item as the “S-Class of something.” For example, the Herman Miller Eames is referred to as the “S-Class of chairs.”

However, with global purchasing habits evolving, customers favoring SUVs, the Chinese market significantly influencing a flagship’s design and features, and the uncertain embrace of electrification at the luxury market’s summit, the new S-Class enters what may be its most daunting period yet.

The Essentials

The S-Class remains the brand’s premier model, and rightly so. Three trims are set to arrive in the States: 500, 580e, and 580. Three powertrains will be available. A mild-hybrid, twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six generating 442 horsepower will drive the S500; a plug-in hybrid, twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six producing 576 hp will energize the S580e; and the classic engine—a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V8 with 530 hp—will power the S580. Every model comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive.

Whether viewed closely or from afar, the 2027 S-Class doesn’t appear drastically different from its forerunner. Most of the vehicle’s key features retain their familiar look. In truth, the new sedan is 50% refreshed, per Mercedes. More than 2,700 new components were fabricated for this model, although I personally couldn’t pinpoint them apart from the updated grille (which is 20% larger and now showcases light-up stars all over), the redesigned headlights and taillights, and the fresh wheel styles. Plus, the iconic three-pointed star hood ornament now illuminates too. (And honestly, it looks quite impressive at night.)

One of these new features is found within the cabin, and what a feature it is. The new MBUX Superscreen is now standard in the S-Class, and just as it did in the brand’s EQ models before, it merges three displays (gauge cluster, center display, and passenger display) into one impressive pane of glass that pretends to be a dashboard.

Other noticeable upgrades you will find in the cabin feature the seating, heated seat belts, vents, various knobs, and door panels. In the rear, if equipped with the executive seating package, you’ll find two remote controllers to manage all of the car’s media, comfort, HVAC, and other luxury features. These now resemble slender, retro mobile phones rather than compact tablets, and they genuinely look and feel fantastic.

Finally, Mercedes will offer 150 exterior color options through its Manufaktur program, along with 400 interior shades. A few specialized colors were showcased at the event, such as the green above, and they were simply breathtaking.

Experiencing the 2027 Mercedes S-Class

The digital speedometer directly before me is flickering between 258 and 259 kilometers per hour (or 160 miles per hour). I’m right on the (Euro-spec) limit and yet hoping that, somehow, the car forgets its electronic speed governor and allows me to keep going up to 300. I know it can achieve that. There was still quite a bit of power remaining, even against the headwinds.

Though not the engine most typically linked with the Mercedes S-Class, the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six accelerated with surprising ease, hitting its regulated top speed with as much enthusiasm and smoothness as its counterpart with two additional cylinders. Honestly, if you detach the auditory aspect and compare the straight-six S500 and V8 S580 purely on sensation, they feel nearly identical.

The S500’s 442 hp skillfully handles the movement of all 4,861 pounds of German engineering, whether you’re racing from traffic light to traffic light, zooming on the autobahn, or getting a bit spirited on a country road. I accomplished all of that repeatedly over the span of two days, and not once could I justify opting for the V8. If you desire the quintessential S-Class experience, the inline-six suffices. If you seek a bit of auditory drama and a tad more torque for overtaking, then consider the V8. However, the vehicle certainly doesn’t require it to excel.

Navigating similar conditions, and in some instances, on the exact same routes with the V8 was enjoyable, and one definitely gets the impression that the S580 with its luxurious rear seating, shades on nearly every window, double sunroofs, delightful little cushions on the headrests, and the deep rumble of a twin-turbo V8 embodies the quintessential S-Class experience. At least until you experience the plug-in hybrid.

With the battery fully charged, flooring the throttle on the plug-in hybrid will genuinely make you go, “huh?” No, it’s not the jarring, borderline-unpleasant acceleration characteristic of an EV, but for a vehicle that primarily operates on gasoline and weighs over 5,000 pounds, the S580e clearly surpasses the other two models in perceived performance. I use “perceived” because it actually has the slowest 0-60 time of the trio (4.4 seconds), despite feeling faster. The V8 is the quickest, achieving a mind-blowing (considering its weight) 3.9 seconds. The combined 576 hp works diligently to make the executive sedan feel as nimble as possible, allowing it to be just as memorable on the winding roads near the Baltic Sea as on the A1 returning to Hamburg.

Naturally, the S-Class experience encompasses more than just the engine beneath the hood. In truth, it’s about the ride quality, comfort, and luxury. Unsurprisingly, the 2027 model excels in all these areas, providing an exceptional ride experience and user satisfaction for both drivers and passengers alike. I found driving the S-Class equally enjoyable as riding in the rear seat while my driving companion hit top speed on the autobahn. Honestly, the seats were so accommodating and the cabin so serene that I nodded off for a bit. Blame it on jet lag.

As I shared with several colleagues, the S-Class—much like the Porsche 911—is one of those vehicles where you step inside and swiftly want to uncover something to criticize. Not because you resent it, but because you fear being blinded by its prestige. Then, you find yourself a bit let down since you can’t actually identify any significant flaws, and instead end up relishing every moment behind the wheel.

Despite enjoying my time driving all three trims, there is one significant downside shared across the board: the Superscreen. This oversized, cumbersome set of displays does not encapsulate what the S-Class is meant to represent. I understand that the flagship must always be state-of-the-art—it has to showcase new technologies that ultimately filter down not just to other Mercedes models but the entire automotive industry—but this doesn’t cut it. Substituting what could’ve been a beautiful dash crafted with leather or wood, or perhaps aluminum or carbon fiber, with this behemoth is unfathomable to me.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The S-Class remains the apex of Mercedes, even when accounting for the AMG and Maybach variants. The S500 provides the essential S-Class experience, and there’s no necessity to invest more in upper trims. However, if you desire the most sophisticated S-Class available at launch, go for the S580e and acquire that remarkable plug-in hybrid. High-performance AMG and ultra-luxurious Maybach versions will follow next year.

I can hardly believe I’m saying this, but after getting in and out of several sedans over two days, I found myself craving one of those buttons that automatically close your door. These are substantial vehicles with heavy doors, and I would always climb into the seat, rearrange myself, and then have to lean forward quite a bit (because the easy exit setting pushes the seat back completely), stretch my arm all the way out, and reach for the door handle to close it. It was rather bothersome and not very stylish. And add that feature to the rear doors while you’re at it—just like in a Rolls.

Initial Judgment

If you can adjust to— or visually disregard—its digital dashboard, there is likely no finer luxury sedan available today. The Mercedes S-Class remains the ruler.

Mercedes provided The Drive with travel and accommodations, along with the use of a vehicle for the purpose of writing this review.

2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Specifications

**2027 Mercedes S-Class Initial Drive Review: Performance Brilliance Despite Contentious Screen Design**

The 2027 Mercedes S-Class has made its debut, bringing with it a combination of luxury, performance, and pioneering technology that continues to exemplify the flagship sedan category. During our first experience, we investigated the vehicle’s remarkable capabilities while also addressing the divisive design decision of its interior screens.

**Performance and Dynamics**

Beneath the surface, the 2027 S-Class provides a variety of powertrains, featuring a powerful V8 engine and a sophisticated hybrid alternative that merges performance with efficiency. The V8 option offers thrilling acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in merely 4.2 seconds, while the hybrid variant allows a seamless shift between electric and gasoline power, appealing to both performance seekers and environmentally conscious motorists.

The S-Class is outfitted with an adaptive air suspension system that guarantees a smooth journey, effortlessly accommodating road imperfections. The steering is accurate, providing a blend of comfort and sportiness that enhances the driving experience. The inclusion of rear-wheel steering also elevates maneuverability, allowing the large sedan to feel nimble in restricted areas.

**Interior and Tech Features**

Entering the 2027 S-Class, one is immediately captivated by the extensive implementation of screens. The focal point is a massive, curved display that encompasses the dashboard, merging the instrument cluster and infotainment system. While the technology is undoubtedly advanced, opinions diverge on the visual appeal of this layout. Some admire the futuristic aesthetic, while others deem it overwhelming and distracting.

The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system has been refined, boasting improved voice recognition and intuitive controls. The system responds swiftly to commands, permitting drivers to modify settings without diverting their gaze from the road. Additionally, the ambient lighting and high-caliber materials throughout the cabin create a sense of luxury that is expected from the S-Class heritage.

**Safety Features**

Mercedes has outfitted the 2027 S-Class with a suite of advanced safety functionalities, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and an innovative collision avoidance system. The vehicle’s comprehensive sensor array offers a 360-degree perspective, enhancing awareness and confidence while driving. The addition of automated parking capabilities further emphasizes the S-Class’s dedication to convenience and safety.

**Final Thoughts**

The 2027 Mercedes S-Class continues to establish the benchmark for luxury sedans, delivering remarkable performance and a wide array of technological enhancements. While the controversial screen design may spark differing opinions, the overarching driving experience and commitment to safety and comfort remain second to none. For those in pursuit of a blend of power, luxury, and innovation, the 2027 S-Class stands as a formidable player in the automotive market.