Mercedes-Benz GLE vs. GLC: Which SUV Fits Your Chicagoland Fall

Section 179 at a Glance Business owners who buy a qualifying Mercedes-Benz SUV or Sprinter Van can deduct up to $32,000 under Section 179 for tax year 2026. With 100% bonus depreciation, the rest of the business-use cost may also be deductible in the first year. Mercedes-Benz models to look at: Heavy SUVs (6,001 to 14,000 lbs GVWR): select configurations of the GLE, GLS, G-Class, EQE SUV and EQS SUV Commercial vans: Sprinter 2500, 3500, 3500XD and 4500 (some van designs aren't held to the $32,000 SUV cap) What it takes to qualify: The vehicle must be purchased and delivered by December 31, 2026. A deposit alone doesn't count. It must be used for business more than 50% of the time. Check the GVWR on the driver's door jamb label for the exact vehicle. Example: on a $100,000 qualifying SUV used 100% for business, the first-year deduction can include $32,000 under Section 179 plus bonus depreciation on the remaining $68,000. Talk to your tax advisor about what applies to your business. Every Mercedes-Benz that goes onto a business’ books is a tax decision before it is a driving decision. For tax year 2026, Section 179 of the Internal Revenue Code lets eligible businesses deduct some or all of a qualifying vehicle’s business cost in the year it goes into service, instead of spreading the write-off over several years. For businesses using a calendar tax year, vehicles must be purchased and placed in service by December 31, 2026. That date carries more weight than it appears to. Placed in service means the vehicle is ready and available for its specific business use. Signing an agreement or paying a deposit in December with delivery in January does not meet that requirement. A company planning a year-end purchase should confirm the delivery date before it confirms the price. The 2026 Dollar Limits For tax year 2026, the maximum Section 179 deduction is $2,560,000, up from $2,500,000 in 2025. The deduction begins to phase out once total qualifying property placed in service during the year exceeds $4,090,000, and it reaches zero at $6,650,000. The reduction is dollar for dollar. A business that places $4,590,000 of qualifying property in service loses $500,000 from the maximum, leaving $2,060,000 available. Most owners buying one or two vehicles will never approach the phase-out threshold. The figure matters for companies that buy equipment alongside vehicles, and for fleets that add several units in a single year, where total purchases can climb faster than expected. The $4,090,000 figure is a phase-out threshold, not a prohibition on spending more. The deduction also has a ceiling tied to the business itself. It cannot exceed the applicable taxable income from actively conducted trades or businesses. Amounts disallowed by that income limitation can generally carry forward. Entity-level and owner-level rules can affect the calculation, so accounting profit alone does not establish the available deduction. The Heavy SUV Cap Congress singled out sport utility vehicles. A qualifying SUV rated at more than 6,000 pounds and not more than 14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR, is limited to a $32,000 Section 179 deduction for 2026, up from $31,300 in 2025. That cap is the number most buyers encounter first, and it is the one most often misread. Check Out: Wet Adventures in the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS Vehicles rated above 14,000 pounds fall outside this particular SUV cap. Certain truck and van designs also qualify for exceptions based on their seating or cargo configuration. Being called a commercial van does not automatically establish an exception. Passenger automobiles, including many lighter SUVs, face separate annual depreciation limits that can restrict Section 179 and bonus depreciation together. Bonus Depreciation Fills the Rest Section 179 is only part of the picture. Federal law provides 100 percent bonus depreciation for eligible property acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025. It applies after any Section 179 deduction. Acquisition rules, including earlier binding contracts, can affect eligibility. For an eligible heavy SUV bought for $100,000 and used entirely for business, the first-year calculation can include the $32,000 Section 179 amount plus bonus depreciation on the remaining $68,000 of basis. This assumes all requirements are met. Bonus depreciation does not have Section 179’s overall dollar limit, although passenger automobile limits and other restrictions still apply. A deduction reduces taxable income; it does not reduce the tax bill dollar for dollar. A $100,000 deduction therefore does not mean $100,000 in tax savings. The actual savings depend on the taxpayer’s circumstances and applicable tax rates. These are federal provisions; state treatment can differ. Business use is the other half of the equation. A vehicle generally must be used more than 50 percent in qualified business use to qualify for Section 179 and bonus depreciation. The deductible basis reflects the business-use percentage. If qualified business use drops to 50 percent or below during the applicable recovery period, recapture rules may require reporting some earlier deductions as income. Mileage logs and supporting records matter; ordinary commuting generally counts as personal use. Which Mercedes-Benz Models Fall Where The bracket depends on the specific vehicle. GVWR appears on the certification label on the driver’s door jamb. It is the manufacturer’s maximum loaded weight rating, not the vehicle’s curb weight. Confirming that number is an essential step before planning any deduction. Select configurations of the GLE, GLS, G-Class, EQE SUV and EQS SUV may qualify for the heavy SUV deduction when their GVWR exceeds 6,000 pounds and does not exceed 14,000 pounds. Confirm the model year, configuration and certification label for the individual vehicle, then have a tax professional determine eligibility. These model families are shopping starting points, not a guarantee that every vehicle qualifies. A 2027 model purchased and placed in service during 2026 can potentially qualify for a 2026 deduction. Commercial buyers can consider Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500, 3500, 3500XD and 4500 vans. These heavy commercial vehicles may qualify for substantial deductions, with treatment depending on their specific configuration. Cargo, passenger and other layouts can receive different treatment under the vehicle rules. Owners running a crew, delivery route or mobile service business should request the exact GVWR and seating or cargo specifications before planning a deduction. Certain qualifying van designs are exempt from the heavy SUV cap; confirm the applicable exception with a tax advisor. What to Do Before Year End Start with the calendar. Confirm delivery and make sure the vehicle is ready and available for its intended business use by December 31, 2026, if your business uses a calendar tax year. Next, check the certification label for the exact vehicle being considered. Then document the business-use plan and establish records supporting the percentage claimed. Finally, run the numbers with a tax professional. Taxable business income, total equipment purchases, carryforwards, acquisition timing and entity structure can change the outcome. The same vehicle can produce different results for two buyers in the same market. Ask whether Section 179, bonus depreciation or another depreciation approach makes the most sense for the business. Check Out: The 2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA Electric Is Coming—and It’s a Big Leap Forward Do not treat a projected deduction as a reason to skip the practical questions. The vehicle still needs to fit the work, the budget and the delivery schedule. Buyers considering financing should review the purchase structure with their advisor rather than assuming that the amount paid upfront determines the deduction. Keep the purchase documents, delivery records and business mileage records together so the final tax calculation reflects the actual transaction and use. The business-use percentage should reflect use during the tax year, supported by records, rather than a percentage chosen to reach a desired deduction. Before taking delivery, confirm who will use the vehicle, what business tasks it will serve and how mileage will be tracked. Records connect the purchase decision to the eventual tax return and make it easier to answer questions about how the vehicle was used. About Loeber Motors Loeber Motors helps Chicagoland buyers explore Mercedes-Benz vehicles and compare specifications for their business and personal driving needs. Buyers considering a year-end business purchase can ask the dealership to help confirm the model year, configuration, delivery timing and GVWR information for a specific vehicle. Those details give the buyer and tax advisor a clearer starting point for evaluating potential deductions. This article provides general information about federal tax rules, not tax advice. Eligibility and tax savings depend on individual circumstances. Buyers should review the transaction with a CPA or tax advisor before purchasing and confirm applicable state tax treatment separately. (Sources: IRS Publication 946, IRS Instructions for Form 4562, IRS Notice 2026-11, Mercedes-Benz USA and Mercedes-Benz Vans) Quick Answers For tax year 2026, eligible businesses may elect a federal Section 179 deduction of up to $2,560,000. That limit phases out dollar for dollar when qualifying property placed in service exceeds $4,090,000, reaching zero at $6,650,000. Qualifying SUVs with GVWR above 6,000 pounds and no more than 14,000 pounds have a $32,000 Section 179 cap. Eligible remaining business-use basis may qualify for 100 percent bonus depreciation. Calendar-year businesses must purchase and place the vehicle in service by December 31, 2026. Verify the individual vehicle’s specifications, document qualified business use above 50 percent and review eligibility with a tax advisor. A deduction reduces taxable income, not taxes dollar for dollar. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the deadline for claiming Section 179 for tax year 2026? For a calendar-year business, the vehicle must be purchased and placed in service by December 31, 2026. Placed in service means ready and available for its specific business use. A deposit or signed agreement alone is insufficient. 2. What is the maximum Section 179 deduction for 2026? The maximum is $2,560,000 across qualifying property, subject to the phase-out and applicable business income limits. This is not an automatic deduction for each vehicle. 3. When does the Section 179 phase-out begin? The maximum deduction decreases dollar for dollar when qualifying property placed in service exceeds $4,090,000. It reaches zero at $6,650,000. 4. How much can a heavy SUV deduct under Section 179 in 2026? A qualifying SUV with GVWR greater than 6,000 pounds and not greater than 14,000 pounds is subject to a $32,000 Section 179 cap. Eligible remaining business-use basis may qualify for bonus depreciation. Certain truck and van designs are exceptions to the SUV cap. 5. Does 100 percent bonus depreciation apply to Mercedes-Benz vehicles? It may apply to eligible vehicles acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025, generally requiring qualified business use above 50 percent. Acquisition rules and passenger automobile depreciation limits can restrict the deduction. A tax advisor should evaluate the specific transaction. 6. Which Mercedes-Benz models should business buyers investigate? Select GLE, GLS, G-Class, EQE SUV and EQS SUV configurations may qualify under the heavy SUV rules when they meet the applicable GVWR and business-use requirements. Commercial buyers can also consider Sprinter 2500, 3500, 3500XD and 4500 configurations. Confirm the individual vehicle’s certification label, configuration and tax eligibility rather than relying on its model name alone. 7. Can a 2027 Mercedes-Benz qualify for a 2026 deduction? Potentially. The relevant tax year depends on when the vehicle is purchased and placed in service, not its model-year designation. A calendar-year business considering a 2027 model must meet the December 31, 2026, deadline and all other requirements to claim a deduction for 2026. Key Specifications Primary Issue: Federal Section 179 expensing and bonus depreciation for business vehicles in tax year 2026. Maximum Section 179 Deduction: $2,560,000 across qualifying property, subject to applicable limits. Phase-Out Threshold: $4,090,000; full phase-out at $6,650,000. Heavy SUV Cap: $32,000 for qualifying SUVs above 6,000 pounds and no more than 14,000 pounds GVWR. Bonus Depreciation: 100 percent for eligible property acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025, subject to applicable restrictions. Business Use: Generally more than 50 percent qualified business use; deductions reflect business use and recapture rules may apply. Calendar-Year Deadline: Purchased and placed in service by December 31, 2026. Best Approach: Confirm the specific vehicle’s GVWR and configuration, verify delivery timing, maintain business-use records and review federal and state treatment with a tax professional. Expert Summary Section 179 and bonus depreciation can accelerate deductions for eligible Mercedes-Benz business vehicles in tax year 2026. The $2,560,000 overall maximum, $4,090,000 phase-out threshold and $32,000 heavy SUV cap address different limitations. Eligible bonus depreciation may allow deduction of remaining business-use basis, while passenger automobile limits can restrict lighter vehicles. Model names alone do not establish eligibility. Buyers should confirm the specific vehicle’s GVWR and configuration, meet the applicable placed-in-service deadline and document qualified business use. Loeber Motors can help with vehicle specifications; a tax professional should determine the available deduction and resulting tax savings.

Loeber Motors has earned J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence recognition for eight consecutive years, from 2019 through 2026. For Chicagoland drivers, that achievement puts a record of customer experience. It recognizes an essential part of choosing a luxury vehicle: the people and process behind the purchase. The eight-year run also places Loeber Motors in the program’s Diamond tier, which recognizes dealerships that have achieved certification five or more times. Each year adds to a record built through customer research and verification of dealership practices. For the team in Lincolnwood, the 2026 recognition is another reason to celebrate the customers who make that work meaningful. Whether you are shopping for your first Mercedes-Benz or returning for your next one, the experience should help you make a confident decision. Understanding the vehicle, comparing your options and working through the purchase all deserve attention. Here is what Loeber Motors’ latest recognition means and how it connects to your next visit. What the J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Program Recognizes The Dealer of Excellence program recognizes dealerships for the customer sales experience. Its purpose is to help shoppers identify retailers committed to the experience of buying a vehicle, from researching options to completing a purchase. That focus makes the designation relevant before you settle on a particular model. A luxury vehicle brings plenty to consider. You may be comparing seating arrangements, powertrains, technology or the difference between buying and leasing. The dealership experience helps you work through those decisions. Clear explanations and time to understand the choices can be as valuable during the shopping process as a detailed specifications sheet. The recognition addresses that dealership relationship. It is separate from an award for a vehicle’s engineering, reliability or performance. For buyers, the distinction is useful: research the Mercedes-Benz that suits your driving needs, then consider the dealership’s sales experience as another part of the decision. How Dealerships Earn the Recognition Qualification involves more than submitting a dealership’s name. J.D. Power’s program uses customer satisfaction research and verification of sales practices to evaluate participating retailers. Loeber Motors’ own award announcement describes recognition based on strong results in manufacturer customer research and completion of an in-dealership best practices verification visit. The program’s eligibility framework considers brand performance in J.D. Power’s Sales Satisfaction Index study. Interested dealerships must also perform well within their brands in relevant customer satisfaction measures. Qualifying retailers then undergo an assessment of the sales process inside the dealership. That combination connects customer feedback with dealership operations. Research addresses how buyers describe their experience, while the verification visit examines practices intended to support a positive purchase. The designation therefore has a defined customer experience focus beyond the appearance of a showroom or the selection of vehicles parked outside. For shoppers, the practical value is having another informed starting point. You can arrive with questions about a vehicle and an understanding that the dealership has earned recognition for the way it approaches the sales experience. What Diamond Status Means Diamond is the program’s tier for dealerships with five or more certifications. Loeber Motors’ eight consecutive years extend well beyond that threshold. Its record includes every year from 2019 through 2026, giving the latest recognition the context of an established history. Check Out: The 2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA Electric Is Coming—and It’s a Big Leap Forward Consistency matters because buying expectations continue to evolve. Some customers begin with extensive online research. Others want to sit in several vehicles before narrowing the choices. Returning owners may know the brand well but have questions about new technology or a different body style. A helpful sales experience needs to make room for those different starting points. Eight consecutive years of recognition give shoppers something concrete to consider alongside their own priorities. For Loeber Motors, the milestone of the September honor also acknowledges the ongoing work involved in helping customers navigate important decisions. The award celebrates a continuing commitment rather than a single memorable transaction. What It Means for Your Mercedes-Benz Shopping Experience Your next vehicle should fit the way you actually drive. A growing household might prioritize passenger space and access to the rear seats. A commuter might focus on cabin comfort and everyday convenience. Another buyer may want to understand how an available driver assistance feature works before choosing a configuration. Those questions belong in the shopping conversation. Bring the details that matter to you: who rides with you, what you carry, where you park and which features you use most. They help turn a broad search into a more focused comparison. The same approach applies when discussing a purchase or lease. Ask about the vehicle price, available terms, trade-in considerations and optional products. Understanding each part of the transaction helps you evaluate the complete proposal. The recognition gives context to the dealership’s customer experience; your conversation makes the visit specific to your needs. If you are researching a 2027 Mercedes-Benz, begin with the models that interest you and ask Loeber Motors about availability and configurations. Model specifications and the dealership experience work together: one helps you identify the right vehicle, and the other helps you understand the path to owning or leasing it. A Chicagoland Relationship Built Over Generations Loeber Motors traces its business history to 1936 and describes itself as a third-generation, family-owned dealership. Its Mercedes-Benz relationship dates to 1958. That history gives the latest award a local setting: a longstanding business continuing to serve drivers whose needs change over time. Today, the Lincolnwood location on West Touhy Avenue serves Chicagoland customers exploring Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Some arrive ready to replace a familiar model. Others are discovering the brand for the first time. A dealership relationship can begin with either conversation and develop as driving needs change. Check Out: Wet Adventures in the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS The 2026 recognition adds another chapter to that history. It is an opportunity to thank customers for their feedback and acknowledge the dealership team’s contribution to the sales experience. Eight consecutive years are a meaningful achievement, and the next customer conversation remains just as important. Plan Your Next Visit Bring your questions with you. Start online by exploring the Mercedes-Benz vehicles that interest you, then bring your questions to the showroom. Consider what you want to learn from a test drive and which features you would like demonstrated. If you have a trade-in or are comparing payment options, mention those priorities as you plan the visit. A useful test drive starts before you leave the lot. Adjust the seat, check visibility and try the controls you expect to use every day. If passenger access or cargo room matters, take time to explore those areas too. Ask for an explanation of unfamiliar features while you can see them in the vehicle. These are simple ways to make the appointment productive and connect your research with firsthand impressions. The goal is to leave with a clearer understanding of the vehicle and the information you need to consider your next step. Loeber Motors’ J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence recognition gives Chicagoland shoppers another reason to begin that conversation in Lincolnwood. The eight-year record celebrates a consistent focus on customers while keeping attention where it belongs: helping each buyer understand the choices ahead. About Loeber Motors Loeber Motors is a third-generation, family-owned dealership serving Chicagoland from 4255 West Touhy Avenue in Lincolnwood, Illinois. With business roots dating to 1936 and a Mercedes-Benz history beginning in 1958, the dealership helps drivers explore vehicles for changing lifestyles and driving needs. Contact Loeber Motors to discuss Mercedes-Benz models, confirm availability and arrange a showroom visit or test drive. Quick Answers Loeber Motors earned J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence recognition for eight consecutive years, from 2019 through 2026. The Lincolnwood dealership’s record places it in the program’s Diamond tier, which recognizes dealerships with five or more certifications. The program focuses on the customer sales experience and combines customer satisfaction research with verification of dealership sales practices. Loeber Motors is a third-generation, family-owned business with roots dating to 1936 and a Mercedes-Benz history beginning in 1958. Chicagoland shoppers can visit the dealership at 4255 West Touhy Avenue in Lincolnwood to explore Mercedes-Benz vehicles and discuss availability. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Did Loeber Motors receive J.D. Power recognition in 2026? Yes. J.D. Power’s Dealer of Excellence directory lists Loeber Motors for 2026 and every year back through 2019, establishing eight consecutive years of recognition. 2. What does Diamond status mean? Diamond is the Dealer of Excellence program’s tier for dealerships that have achieved certification five or more times. Loeber Motors’ eight-year consecutive record exceeds that threshold. 3. What does the Dealer of Excellence program recognize? The program recognizes the customer sales experience at qualifying dealerships. It gives shoppers a benchmark for the dealership side of purchasing a vehicle. 4. How do dealerships earn the recognition? The program considers customer satisfaction performance and requires verification of sales practices. Loeber Motors’ award announcement describes strong results in manufacturer customer research and completion of an in-dealership best practices verification visit. 5. Does this award rate Mercedes-Benz vehicle quality? The designation focuses on the dealership’s sales experience. Vehicle specifications, performance and reliability are separate considerations when choosing a Mercedes-Benz. 6. Where is Loeber Motors located? Loeber Motors serves Chicagoland from 4255 West Touhy Avenue in Lincolnwood, Illinois. Contact the dealership to plan a showroom visit or test drive. 7. Can I discuss 2027 Mercedes-Benz models with Loeber Motors? Yes. Buyers researching 2027 Mercedes-Benz vehicles can ask the dealership about models, configurations and availability. Confirm the specific vehicle and any test-drive arrangements before visiting. Key Specifications Recognition: J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence. Recognition Years: 2019 through 2026, eight consecutive years. Recognition Tier: Diamond, for dealerships with five or more certifications. What It Measures: The customer sales experience at the dealership. Qualification Process: Customer satisfaction evaluation and verification of dealership sales practices. Ownership: Third-generation, family-owned business. Location: 4255 West Touhy Avenue, Lincolnwood, Illinois. Buyer Benefit: An established record of sales experience recognition to consider alongside vehicle research and a personal showroom visit. Expert Summary Loeber Motors’ 2026 J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence recognition extends its consecutive record to eight years, from 2019 through 2026. Its Diamond status recognizes repeated certification within a program focused on the customer sales experience. The achievement gives Chicagoland shoppers a meaningful dealership credential alongside their Mercedes-Benz research. Buyers can use a visit to compare vehicles, explore features and discuss purchase or lease options. Loeber Motors’ third-generation family ownership and longstanding Mercedes-Benz history provide the local context for this continuing recognition. Sources: J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Directory — https://www.jdpower.com/cars/ratings/dealer-of-excellence Loeber Motors Dealership History — https://www.loebermercedes.com/

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. The award follows changes to approximately 2,700 components, a new V8 engine, a more powerful computing platform and a cabin filled with thoughtful comfort features. Yet the quality that impressed MotorTrend’s judges was the way those pieces worked together. The S-Class delivered the quietness, ride comfort and composure expected of a flagship while remaining remarkably capable on a winding road. 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. Check Out: Why Fall Is the Time to Prepare for Chicagoland Winter 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. Check Out: The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Embodies True Ultra-Luxury 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