2020 Mercedes Benz S Class Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

When a person dreams of a luxurious car, they most certainly should have the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class in mind. Top-tier amenities, the highest quality materials, and real craftsmanship continue to be the main ingredients for the Mercedes-Benz flagship. The latest innovations in driver assistance and entertainment tech add to the sedan's modern character.

Shoppers choose between the standard 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, Maybach sedan, AMG speedsters, coupes, and cabriolets. That's a wide range of styles to match many types of buyers.

What's New for 2020?

Onlookers may notice a more forceful style. That's due to the radiator grille which is now on all 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models. Last year that grille style was limited to the V12 editions.

Mercedes-Benz added even more to the standard S package this year. Active Parking Assist makes life easier when you are faced with parallel parking. Keyless-Go lets you push a button to start. Hands-free access lets you into the trunk without having to find your key.

The latest generation of COMAND puts dual displays on the dash. This multimedia system keeps getting better, providing faster connectivity and more infotainment variety. The driver assistance system is once again upgraded, combining more functions for the most modern automation possible.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Mercedes Benz S Class – The Pros

1. Active Steering Pairs Well with Active Distance Assist

When properly equipped, the S-class sedan can take over many driving functions. Engineers have expanded the range of speeds at which Active Steering Assist can operate. At certain speeds, it can intervene regardless of road line visibility. This reduces the problems that come with unmarked lanes or rainy roads. The lane keeper also has a tighter radius for taking curves.

The improved automatic steering makes Distronic even more meaningful. While the car regulates speed, it is also regulating trajectory. With that, active distance assist really can ensure safe forward travel. Drivers must stay alert, but the car has the tools to drive itself. Active Emergency Stop Assist provides a back-up if the driver has completely abdicated driving to the machine.

2. Active Assistance Anticipates Speed Limits and Other Slow Downs

Mercedes-Benz safety tech now recognizes when the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan is approaching a speed limit change. The system can adjust on its own to increases and decreases when it is in Distronic mode.

In fact, the route-based speed adaption is one of the first of its kind. COMAND map data shows the vehicle when to anticipate junctions, roundabouts and other slow downs. This adds to its ability to think ahead.

Car-to-X communication receives information from a wide network that allows it to evaluate driving conditions. A connected car traveling ahead of the S-class sedan, coupe or convertible can convey that the roads are wet in a specific spot. This goes beyond forecasting to give you information about conditions in real time.

3. Active Braking and Steering Are Enhanced

With the blind spot assist, the driver is less likely to make a mistake by moving into a neighboring vehicle's space. Active Lane Change Assist takes that to the next logical level. The vehicle can use the blind spot radar and cameras to recognize adjacent lane space and to change lanes for the driver when that space is empty.

Evasive Steering Assist recognizes when the driver is performing an evasive maneuver due to a pedestrian in the road. MB active braking functions include a cross-traffic function that works when the sedan is in reverse. The Active Parking Assist helps put the car into a space and get it out again without a scratch. A Surround View camera shows you the perimeter of your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class car.

4. Twin Turbo Power Offers Fast and Faster Travel

Starting with the 362-horsepower V6 biturbo, the S sedan driver commands a high rate of torque. The S 560 V8 biturbo generates 463 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That's more than the majority of today's pickup trucks, and it sure makes this car competitive in traffic.

The handcrafted V8 biturbo cranks up capability to 603 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. Even more fun, the V12 biturbo is handcrafted to deliver 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet. To claim this level of performance, shoppers can choose from the AMG S 63, AMG S65, or one of the S-Class Maybach editions.

5. Performance Equipment Adds to the Fun

Even on the standard 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, you'll find a remarkable 9-speed automatic. This 9-G Tronic system knows how to capture the moment. Every horse is harnessed in pursuit of performance. Other choices include the dynamic 7G Tronic Plus, 9G Tronic Plus, and AMG Speedshift Plus 7 or 9 speeds.

Rear-wheel drive gives these sedans a true European feel. Smart handling technology helps it hit the curves without sliding. AMG models have RACE START to harness more power from the line. AMG Dynamic Select lets the driver choose from a menu of driving modes.

6. Air Goes to Work

The AIRMATIC semi-active air suspension constantly regulates the car's response to the ride. It adapts to each bump and reduces how much bounce is felt in the cabin. The driver can keep things smoother since the air suspension ensures a more precise response to driver commands.

Magic Body Control (MBC) takes things up another notch. The curve tilting function is exclusive to Mercedes-Benz. MBC maintains the best ride quality for passengers. This is why the S sedan is such a good choice for those who leave the driving to other people.

AMG S 63 models have their own air suspension based on AIRMATIC. Meanwhile, AMG S 65 editions have a sport suspension based on Magic Body Control with curve tilting. Either way, these suspensions are specially designed to handle more aggressive driving.

7. COMAND System Does More

The new COMAND display is actually two 12.3-inch screens under one glass panel. With high resolution, it's easy to see what you want. Touch controls on the steering wheel incorporate different types of touch, allowing you to find menus and make choices without taking your hands from the wheel. Other touch controls work with adaptive distance control and other driver assistance features.

The system has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the popular connectivity systems for the two most common smartphones. In AMG models, a Track Pace feature is integrated with the COMAND system. On Maybach models, shoppers can add a SplitView front-seat entertainment system.

8. Lighting Takes On More Responsibility

The opulent interior is marked by a 64-color lighting system. The driver chooses the ambient glow that sets the stage for evening adventures. Maybach models extend ambient lighting to the back row.

The LED Intelligent Light System knows when it's needed. It also knows when to go brighter and when to reduce the beam. For better views, there's a new Ultra Wide Beam feature. These lights can show the driver more of the road and illuminate curves and turns better. S-class shoppers can add Swarovski Crystal headlamps for the ultimate luxury statement.

9. Beauty and Technology Combine in Classic Interiors

Mercedes-Benz designers have taken care to craft a lush, well-made living space. The cabin wears Nappa leather in a variety of color combinations and styles. Available designo semi-aniline leather combines Silk Beige and Titanium Grey Pearl or Satin Red Pearl. Some surfaces are clad in leather for a softer touch. Real wood and other premium trim elements complete the look.

This 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class now has standard massaging seats. The Active Multicontour front seats have variable heat settings as well as multiple power adjustments. Ventilated seating complements the multi-zone automatic climate controls.

10. Cabriolet Adds Open Air Temptations

The S-Class Cabriolet is the rare convertible that you can truly enjoy any season of the year. This year-round comfort is brought to you by comprehensive warmth and wind protections. This lets you have your cake and eat it too. As an alternative, you can add the Panorama roof to the Maybach and enjoy open air and natural light.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Mercedes Benz S Class – The Cons

1. Backseat Space is Limited

In the small S-Class coupes and cabriolets, there are only four seats. Plus, the backseat has limited legroom. Adults may need more space when legroom is just under 35 inches.

2. Fuel Economy isn't a Consideration

Mercedes-Benz assumes that the driver won't care about the price of fuel. For the best rating, the entry level turbo earns 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway. Otherwise, the class gets 21 miles per gallon on the highway or less. City fuel economy is in the teens.

3. Driver Assistance isn't Standard

With prices hovering around $100,000 for many in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, you'd expect driver assistance to be standard. If you want the maximum, you will have to pay extra for it.

4. Trunk Space isn't Always Enough

The standard trunk is around 18 cubic feet. The coupes and convertibles have as little as 10 cubic feet of space. For frequent travelers, this may not be enough room for luggage and gear.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class compares most closely with the BMW 7 Series. They match on performance, but the Mercedes-Benz tech offerings and opulent cabins tilt the scales. The Audi A8 may also be compared to the S-Class. However, the manufacturer doesn't have as many styles, technologies or high-performance powertrains.

Conclusion

If you want the most elegance for the money, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will satisfy your desires. You won't have to step up to more performance, technology or style, but if you do, Mercedes-Benz makes it worth your while.