Mercedes S-Class: 2017 Luxury Sedan Benchmark

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class redefined luxury sedans by winning top awards for its unparalleled blend of comfort, innovation, and performance, outshining competitors in a fiercely contested field.

Why the S-Class Dominated the Luxury Segment

In 2017, the Mercedes S-Class secured the prestigious Luxury Car of the Year title, prevailing over strong challengers like the updated Bentley Mulsanne and the all-new Porsche Panamera. Its victory stemmed from a perfect harmony of serene ride quality, enveloping passenger comfort, and groundbreaking technology that positioned it as the class leader. Experts noted its ability to absorb road imperfections while delivering effortless power, making long journeys feel effortless.

This flagship model served as Mercedes’ laboratory for future innovations, introducing features that would influence the entire industry. From massive digital displays to semi-autonomous driving aids, the S-Class pushed boundaries, ensuring it remained the gold standard for executives and dignitaries seeking the ultimate in refinement.

Powertrain Variety for Every Preference

The 2017 lineup offered diverse engines catering to efficiency seekers, performance enthusiasts, and eco-conscious drivers. At the entry point, the S 350 d featured a refined V6 diesel engine balancing robust acceleration with impressive fuel economy, ideal for high-mileage users.

Petrol options included a twin-turbo V8 in the S550, producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifts and better efficiency—18/26 mpg city/highway. All-wheel-drive 4Matic variants added versatility in varied conditions, with ratings of 16/25 mpg.

Hybrid enthusiasts appreciated the S550e plug-in, merging a petrol-electric system for reduced emissions without sacrificing luxury. For thrill-seekers, AMG S63 and S65 models unleashed V8 and V12 turbo power, transforming the limousine into a supercar rival with 0-60 times under 4 seconds.

Interior Excellence and Passenger Comfort

Step inside the 2017 S-Class, and you’re transported to a sanctuary of elegance. The cabin eclipsed rivals with bespoke materials, intuitive controls, and vast space, feeling more akin to a Bentley than standard luxury fare. Heated 16-way power seats with memory, multizone LED ambient lighting, and an Air Balance fragrance system created a personalized haven.

• Expansive legroom and headroom for rear passengers, perfect for chauffeured travel.
• Premium leather and wood trims with flawless stitching and fit.
• Advanced infotainment via dual 12.3-inch TFT displays, responsive touchpads, and voice commands.
• Optional Magic Sky Control sunroof, switching from opaque to transparent at will.

Even base SE L trims included air suspension, leather upholstery, and sophisticated multimedia, ensuring no compromises on luxury from £70,470. Rear-seat executives enjoyed massage functions, folding tables, and individual climate zones, elevating the experience beyond mere transportation.

Advanced Technology and Safety Innovations

Mercedes pioneered automotive tech in the S-Class, debuting systems like adaptive cruise control with steering assist, lane-keeping aids, and predictive collision avoidance. These semi-autonomous features reduced driver fatigue on motorways, earning praise for forward-thinking engineering.

Standard kit encompassed remote start via app, electronic trunk closure, and a 115-volt outlet. Upgrades brought augmented reality navigation projecting directions onto the windshield and health-monitoring seats detecting drowsiness. The nine-speed gearbox in V8 models optimized gear changes for seamless progression, enhancing both efficiency and dynamism.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Mastery

Despite its size, the S-Class handled with poise, thanks to air suspension that ironed out bumps while maintaining composed cornering. Reviewers highlighted its ‘imperious’ ride, isolating occupants from harshness yet firm enough for spirited drives.

AMG variants amplified this with adaptive damping and torque-vectoring, delivering blistering speed in a cosseting package. Fuel economy held up respectably for the power, with diesels excelling in real-world mpg for company car users.

Comparisons with Key Rivals

Against the Bentley Mulsanne’s opulence and Porsche Panamera’s sportiness, the S-Class excelled in balanced excellence. The Mulsanne offered superior craftsmanship but lagged in tech; the Panamera prioritized handling over outright comfort.

• S-Class vs. Bentley Mulsanne: S-Class wins on tech and efficiency; Bentley edges in bespoke luxury.
• S-Class vs. Porsche Panamera: S-Class superior in ride comfort; Panamera better for driver engagement.
• S-Class vs. BMW 7 Series/Audi A8: Mercedes leads in innovation and serenity.

Ownership Considerations and Pricing

Starting at around £70,000 for the S 350 d SE L, prices climbed for hybrids and AMGs, reflecting the value in standard equipment. Running costs benefited from strong residuals and efficient powertrains, though V12 models strained wallets with fuel and maintenance.

Body styles expanded to sedans, coupes, cabriolets, and Maybach ultra-lux variants, with 20-inch wheels optional on top models. Despite a compact trunk, practicality suited most needs.

Long-Term Appeal and Legacy

The 2017 S-Class’s updates—like the nine-speed transmission and Magic Sky roof—cemented its status as a benchmark, influencing successors and rivals alike. Its combination of power, poise, and pampering made it the choice for world leaders and CEOs, proving luxury need not sacrifice substance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)