2022 Mercedes-Benz S580



PHOENIX — The Mercedes S-Class is the world’s best-selling luxury sedan and the latest generation recently introduced as expected is impressive with spectacular new features and amazing technology.  Mercedes is offering two versions of the S-Class, the base level S-500 powered by a 430-hp V6 engine or the S-580 reviewed here with a 496-hp bi-turbocharged mild-hybrid drive V8 engine. All-wheel drive is standard on both models. Of course, luxury not horsepower is what the S-Class is all about.


What’s very much at the heart of the S-Class is the luxurious prestige that comes with ownership of the world’s gold standard for the status seeking elite. While little has changed regarding the sedan’s exterior appearance the interior is a juggernaut of tour-de-force automotive achievement where innovations such as 10 different seat massage programs, a 30 speaker and eight resonator BurmeisterÆ high-end 4D surround sound system delivers concert hall entertainment

Advanced technology includes up to five screens including a giant 12.3-inch OLED touchscreen digital gauge cluster that works in concert with other technology to deliver a 3-dimensional effect. There’s no rotary controller rather vehicle operations work with voice-command functions and smartphone-esque capability including face recognition and fingerprint scanning.

The big sedan rides on an air suspension called E-Active Body Control with a “curve function” that subtly leans the car into corners making the most of the all-wheel steering system that simplifies negotiating tight parking spaces incredibly easy.

The interior is marked with a created feel-good ambience with a lounge character elegance it seems designed primarily as a personal limousine with more front and rear legroom, a plush ride and an overall quiet and refined nature and isolation at interstate speeds. It can also be equipped with power-adjustable reclining diamond quilted leather rear seats with sueded headrest pillows, while being entertained via the optional rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch screens.

Overall, the updated Mercedes S580 sedan is a thoroughly modern and sophisticated saloon, underpinned by exquisite, tailored detailing, a suite of advanced, intuitive technology providing luxury travel, comfort, safety and an amazing driving experience. The leader in automotive technology and innovation, it remains the gold standard of large luxury cars.

Vital stats
2022 Mercedes-Benz S580
Base Price: $117,700
Price as Tested: $131,785
Engine: 4.0-Liter 496-hp Biturbo V8 with mild-hybrid drive
Fuel Economy: 16/25/19 mpg City/Highway/Combined
Seating: 4

Fab Features:
A high-tech tour de force
Exquisitely tailored opulent interior
Elegant, adroit and an amazing driving experience

— Jim Preuter