Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2022) Launch Review

When it comes to the ultimate expression of luxury motoring, very few cars can hold a candle to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Three-pointed Star’s W223-generation first-class sedan, which was unveiled almost two years ago, has now been launched in the Republic. Has it been worth the wait? Read on…

The arrival of a brand-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is not something that occurs very often, but when it does, you absolutely should take notice. See, the S-Class is the flagship of the Three-Pointed Star’s passenger-car lineup and, therefore, it’s likely at the very top of its segment and certainly a showcase of the Sindelfingen-based brand’s most cutting-edge technology. If a user experience-, connectivity-, luxury- or safety technology is to debut, it’ll appear in the S-Class first.

You’re probably thinking that this 7th-generation S-Class isn’t that new and you’d be right. It was unveiled in 2020 and earmarked to arrive in Mzansi last year (2021), but yet another wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, allied with the motor industry-wide shortage of semiconductors, scuppered Mercedes-Benz South Africa plans. A few pre-ordered units have made already made their way to customers, however.

The S-Class’ large digital instrument panel and infotainment screen will get people talking.

S-Class line-up in SA

Now, in 2022, Mercedes-Benz SA has adjusted the S-Class line-up, with the S400d making way for an S350d, which is now the entry-point to the range, and introduced the Mercedes-Maybach portfolio, but more on that in a bit.

Unsurprisingly, the new S-Class is a behemoth. Its overall length stretches beyond 5 metres and, compared with the previous-generation model, the newcomer is longer, wider and higher.

The S-Class is available in S350d and S500 derivatives, with the former’s 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 210 kW and 600 Nm, while the latter’s 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbopetrol motor develops 320 kW and 520 Nm. Both derivatives are rear-wheel driven and feature 9-speed automatic transmissions.

Conservative styling, but not without some interesting details.

What’s the new S-Class like to drive?

You’d be forgiven for assuming that something as large and heavy as a Mercedes-Benz S-Class would be ungainly to drive, but the stately Benz does a great job of hiding its bulk – and heft. The secret to the W223’s relative wieldiness is its revised Modular Rear Architecture which, combined with the wizardry of the adaptive air suspension setup, delivers a level of body control that beggars belief.

The “Big S” is happiest when thrusting its way along a freeway, but the manner in which it glides over the asphalt (of widely divergent grades of quality, because… South Africa) is sensational. The clever steering setup means that the saloon is wholly unintimidating to drive; you won’t feel as if you’re piloting a container ship through the Suez Canal! The driving experience is whisper-quiet; abundant sound insulation and superb refinement ensure the cabin remains relaxingly hushed.

A driver’s vantage doesn’t get more futuristic and luxurious than this!

Even if you make the S350d’s turbodiesel engine work a little harder (by merely leaning on the Benz’s long pedal), that typical diesel-motor clatter that you’d expect to hear is virtually imperceptible. It’s a remarkable feat of NVH suppression.

There is, of course, an even better way to experience the S-Class and that’s by lounging on the cossetting rear bench while letting someone chauffeur you to your destination. Within a few minutes of getting comfy, and playing with all the toys, you’ll realise that driving is actually a chore. If you aspire to experience the finest things in life (heck, who doesn’t?), don’t daydream about being able to afford an S-Class… Aim to acquire the ‘Benz and have your own personal driver.

The S-Class is a joy to drive, but rear passengers will be more than happy to be chauffeured.

The serenity of sitting in the back of the S-Class (with its privacy blinds drawn) and receiving a heated massage while you watch your favourite TV show on the in-car screen is unparalleled – if that’s not the most relaxing form of on-road transport, then what is? Has your cup of coffee gone cold? Place it in the holder, which will warm it up for you. Has your bottle of imported sparkling water lost its chill? The Benz can cool it for you too.

The return of Mercedes-Maybach

The real reason we spent time with Mercedes-Benz SA this week was to get a preview of the all-new Mercedes-Maybach. There are two derivatives: the 4.0-litre V8 turbo-powered S580 4Matic (370 kW/700 Nm) and the 6.0-litre V12-powered S680 4Matic (450 kW/900 Nm). The initial stock has been snapped up – in fact, the Maybach sedan range is sold out for 2022, but there will be more vehicles coming soon and a demo unit is available for prospective buyers to experience.

So, what is a Mercedes-Maybach? Well, if the standard S-Class isn’t quite opulent enough to satisfy you, then the Maybach treatment promises ultra-luxury and prestige in abundance.

“Mercedes-Maybach is the quintessential luxury brand reflecting the impeccable craftsmanship and with that the superior exclusivity and finesse of its products,” says Mark Raine, co-CEO and Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, “the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is synonymous with a one-of-a-kind ultimate luxury experience reserved for only a privileged chosen few.”

For a start, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class boasts a longer wheelbase, with the additional 180mm resulting in even more legroom for the aft occupants. For the first time, the rear doors can be opened at the push of an interior button and passengers benefit from cool tech such as active noise cancellation, which neutralises outside noise to create an eerily-quiet cabin. Rear passengers get heated, cooled and massaging seats, which can recline flat (yes, they become beds).

The options list is obviously extensive. The Executive Rear Package features tray tables, more wood trim, as well as a champagne fridge with matching glasses. There are no fewer than 5 infotainment screens, as well as a removable tablet.

The Maybach range enhances the already comprehensive S-Class lineup.

How much does the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class range cost in SA?

All S-Class derivatives come with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Summary

During our short drive, the S-Class delivered refinement in spades.

Our very brief drive in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class was tantalising indeed. A new vehicle that is as effortlessly sophisticated, lavishly equipped and technologically complex as this Benz’s does not cross our paths very often. Suffice to say we’ll need to spend much more time with the W223 to do a full review, but a quick scroll through the 2nd-generation MBUX infotainment system, for example, highlighted the interface’s ease of use and clear layout. Progress is inexorable!

However, the W223’s refined ride and serene cabin impressed us even more. Unless you’re considering a Bentley or Rolls-Royce, there’s no other first-class sedan that delivers such an exceptional blend of comfort, features and refinement.

We’re keen to spend more time with the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class to discover all of its technology, especially the plethora of highly-advanced semi-autonomous driving systems. Watch this space.

Further Reading:

Mercedes-Benz to push into the exclusive and high-end premium space