The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has spent generations setting expectations for luxury sedans.
For 2027, it has given the rest of the industry another reason to pay attention.
MotorTrend named the extensively updated flagship its 2027 Car of the Year on October 20, recognizing a sedan whose strongest qualities become apparent once it starts moving.
For anyone who enjoys the proportions and driving character of a full-size luxury sedan, the result is welcome news. The 2027 S-Class makes a persuasive case for a car designed around the experience of everyone inside it, whether they prefer the driver’s seat or the reclining seat behind it.
Why the S-Class won
MotorTrend’s Car of the Year award considers six areas: engineering excellence, advancement in design, value, safety, efficiency and performance of intended function. Each vehicle is evaluated against those criteria, with judges considering how successfully it fulfills its purpose.
This year’s field included 16 nameplates represented by 22 variants. Testing began at a California proving ground before finalists moved onto public roads. That combination gave the judges opportunities to assess vehicle behavior under controlled conditions and on the surfaces owners encounter every day.
The S 580 4MATIC Sedan stood out for the completeness of its luxury experience. Its powertrain remained smooth under load, its cabin stayed quiet at speed and its chassis combined comfort with precise control. These are qualities that cannot be reduced to a display size or horsepower figure. Together, they explain why the S-Class rose to the top.
A familiar flagship with substantial changes
The 2027 model is an extensive revision of the seventh-generation S-Class. More than half of the vehicle has been newly developed, updated or refined, making this a much broader undertaking than a few styling changes.
Its proportions remain recognizable, but the front end has a stronger presence. The grille is approximately 20 percent larger, with an illuminated surround and chrome star detailing. An illuminated standing Mercedes-Benz star is available on the hood, while revised headlamps and taillamps carry their own star signatures.
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Those details give the sedan a distinctive appearance after dark. During the day, the long body and formal roofline preserve the visual character that has made the S-Class such an enduring executive car. New wheel designs provide another way to tailor its appearance, with choices that subtly change the overall impression.
A new V8 for the S 580
The S 580 4MATIC Sedan introduces a revised 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft. Mercedes-Benz lists 530 horsepower and estimates acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds.
The engine is part of a broader effort to maintain substantial eight-cylinder performance while meeting evolving emissions requirements. Its development includes changes to the intake system, turbochargers and fuel injection. Mild-hybrid assistance complements the gasoline engine, and a nine-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery.
For the driver, the appeal lies in having that performance readily available without disrupting the cabin’s calm. MotorTrend’s judges praised the engine’s refinement and the sedan’s ability to accelerate with little apparent strain. A flagship should feel equally comfortable settling into a highway cruise and responding decisively when the road opens up.
Six-cylinder and plug-in hybrid choices
The S 500 4MATIC Sedan uses a 3.0-liter inline-six producing 442 horsepower. Mercedes-Benz estimates a 4.3-second sprint to 60 mph, giving the entry point to the range substantial performance of its own.
The S 580e 4MATIC Sedan combines a six-cylinder engine with an electric motor for 576 horsepower of total system output. It offers a different approach to the flagship experience, pairing plug-in hybrid capability with the space and comfort of the S-Class. Its estimated 0-to-60-mph time is 4.4 seconds.
All three use 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The choice centers on powertrain character and how the vehicle will be used. The six-cylinder model emphasizes an already generous balance of performance and refinement, the V8 adds greater urgency, and the plug-in hybrid introduces the opportunity to make some journeys using electric power.
Suspension that anticipates the road
Standard AIRMATIC air suspension gives the S-Class an important foundation for its ride quality. Available E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL adds more sophisticated control of body movement, helping the large sedan maintain its composure as the road changes.
The updated suspension technology can also use shared road information. Connected vehicles can report significant bumps and potholes, allowing an appropriately equipped S-Class approaching the same location to adjust its damping in advance. The benefit is a more prepared response to a rough stretch of pavement.
Rear-axle steering is standard, with 4.5 degrees of steering movement. An available 10-degree system further improves maneuverability. In a car of this size, that is a meaningful convenience when turning into a tight garage, navigating a parking structure or maneuvering on a narrow street. It also helps make the sedan feel more manageable from behind the wheel.
A cabin designed around comfort
The S-Class interior remains a major part of its appeal. Available MANUFAKTUR finishes bring richly detailed upholstery and trim, while the seating and cabin equipment create numerous opportunities to personalize the atmosphere.
Available heated front seat belts extend the comfort features beyond familiar heated seats and armrests. They are a small detail, but one that fits naturally into a sedan intended to make cold-weather travel more pleasant. Mercedes-Benz has also revised practical elements such as the placement of wireless phone chargers.
The rear cabin can become an especially inviting place with available Executive equipment. Reclining seating and a footrest create room to stretch out, while available heating, ventilation and massage functions make longer journeys more comfortable. Optional rear entertainment adds two 13.1-inch displays. For owners who regularly travel with passengers, the back seat deserves as much attention as the driving position.
A new digital experience
The standard MBUX Superscreen gives the dashboard a different visual character. A 14.4-inch central display and a 12.3-inch passenger display sit beneath a shared glass surface, while a separate 12.3-inch display presents information to the driver.
Behind the screens is MB.OS, the Mercedes-Benz Operating System. It connects vehicle systems and supports over-the-air software updates. Fourth-generation MBUX adds an AI-assisted voice interface designed to handle more conversational requests, along with updated navigation and personalization features.
The technology is extensive, but the update also brings physical controls back to the steering wheel. That combination is useful in a car with so many functions: digital displays provide flexibility, while familiar buttons put selected adjustments directly under the driver’s fingers. Available augmented-reality navigation and Burmester audio provide further ways to configure the cabin around personal preferences.
Driver assistance and everyday refinement
The S-Class also advances its driver-assistance and parking technology. Cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors support systems designed to help with tasks ranging from highway travel to maneuvering into a parking space.
The expanded MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO system is intended to add further capabilities, including point-to-point assistance through later software availability. It was not activated during MotorTrend’s award evaluation. These remain assistance features, with the driver responsible for monitoring the road and taking control when required.
That distinction keeps the award in perspective. The S-Class earned its recognition through the vehicle the judges could evaluate: its engine, chassis, cabin and overall execution. Future software features add another chapter to the story, but the sedan’s fundamental strengths are already central to its appeal.
A flagship that earns its place
This week’s coverage places reported starting prices around $114,000 for the S 500 and $136,000 for the S 580. Optional equipment can substantially change the final price, particularly with extensive interior and rear-seat upgrades.
The 2027 S-Class rewards attention because its engineering serves a clear purpose. Strong acceleration, thoughtful comfort features and a controlled ride contribute to a sedan that can make ordinary travel feel more considered. MotorTrend’s award recognizes that achievement and brings renewed attention to one of the defining names in luxury motoring.
To explore the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and arrange a test drive when available, contact Loeber Motors in Lincolnwood.
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Quick Answers
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class won MotorTrend’s 2027 Car of the Year award, announced October 20, 2026. The extensively updated sedan includes approximately 2,700 new or revised components. The range includes the 442-horsepower S 500, 530-horsepower S 580 and 576-horsepower S 580e plug-in hybrid. Standard equipment includes 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension and rear-axle steering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mercedes-Benz won MotorTrend’s 2027 Car of the Year?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class won the award. MotorTrend evaluated an S 580 4MATIC Sedan during its judging process.
What is new for the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The update includes approximately 2,700 new or revised components, a revised V8 engine, MB.OS, fourth-generation MBUX, the standard MBUX Superscreen, exterior changes and updated comfort and assistance technology.
How fast is the 2027 S-Class?
Mercedes-Benz estimates 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds for the S 500, 3.9 seconds for the S 580 and 4.4 seconds for the S 580e plug-in hybrid.
Does the 2027 S-Class have a Hyperscreen?
The updated sedan has the standard MBUX Superscreen. Its 14.4-inch central display and 12.3-inch passenger display are complemented by a separate 12.3-inch driver display.
How much does the 2027 S-Class cost?
This week’s award coverage reports starting prices around $114,000 for the S 500 and $136,000 for the S 580. Confirm the MSRP, destination charge, options and other applicable charges for a specific vehicle.
Key Specifications
Model year: 2027
Award: MotorTrend Car of the Year
Announcement date: October 20, 2026
S 500 engine: 3.0-liter inline-six
S 500 power: 442 hp
S 580 engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8
S 580 power: 530 hp
S 580e power: 576 hp combined
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Drivetrain: 4MATIC all-wheel drive
Suspension: Standard AIRMATIC; available E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL
Rear-axle steering: 4.5 degrees standard; 10 degrees available
Expert Summary
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class combines extensive engineering updates with the comfort and refinement expected of a flagship sedan. Its MotorTrend Car of the Year win reflects the overall execution of the vehicle, particularly the S 580’s smooth V8 performance and accomplished chassis. Three powertrain choices, standard air suspension and rear-axle steering, and an extensively updated cabin give the range considerable breadth.
0–60 mph: 4.3 seconds S 500; 3.9 seconds S 580; 4.4 seconds S 580e, manufacturer estimates
