Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222

The S-Class in brief

The S-Class has been produced under this name since 1972. The latest generations are sedans with standard or long wheelbases, while the W222 era also offered S-Class coupé and cabriolet body styles. Some cars feature 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

On the used market, the S-Class is prized for its exceptional ride comfort, quietness and safety equipment. Like its rivals, its value depreciates rapidly, making used examples accessible, but maintenance remains expensive.

W221, W222 and W223 — the key differences

The W221 (2005–2013) is the cheapest option today, but most cars have high mileages, and repairs to the air suspension and electronics can be costly. It is only worth choosing a well-maintained example.

The W222 (2013–2020) is the most popular generation on the used market. The cabin gained two large screens and numerous driver assistance systems, with some versions featuring the Magic Body Control suspension that anticipates road imperfections. The 2017 facelift introduced new inline-six engines and improved driver assist systems.

The W223 (from 2020) is even more digital: a large vertical MBUX screen, optional augmented reality head-up display, and rear-axle steering. Most petrol engines feature mild-hybrid systems, and plug-in hybrids are also available.

Engines and transmissions

In the W222 generation, the most common diesel is the S 350 BlueTEC / S 350 d: up to 2017 a 3.0 V6 (approx. 258 hp), post-facelift an inline-six (approx. 286 hp), while the S 400 d offers approx. 340 hp. Petrol options include the S 500 with a 4.7 V8 (approx. 455 hp), post-facelift S 450 and S 500 with an inline-six engine, and the S 560 with a 4.0 V8. Plug-in hybrids S 500 e / S 560 e are also available, alongside the AMG S 63 and S 65.

In the W223 generation, you will find the S 350 d (approx. 286 hp) and S 400 d (approx. 330 hp) diesels, the S 450 and S 500 with a 3.0 inline-six engine (approx. 367–435 hp), the S 580 with a V8, and plug-in hybrids such as the S 580 e.

Standard (non-AMG) versions feature the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission (early W222 models also used a 7-speed). 4MATIC all-wheel drive is common on the used market — it comes in handy during winter, though it slightly increases fuel consumption.

What to check when buying a used S-Class

Airmatic air suspension is standard, while some versions are equipped with the more complex Magic Body Control system. Check that the car does not drop overnight, that the compressor does not run for too long, and that there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

On diesel cars, inspect the AdBlue system, diesel particulate filter (DPF), and check for oil leaks around the engine. For V8 versions, ask if the oil was changed on schedule, and for plug-in hybrids, check the battery health and charging operation.

Test all equipment — the MBUX or COMAND system, cameras, massage and ventilation functions, and soft-close doors. Cross-reference the mileage with service records: the S-Class is frequently used for business travel or chauffeuring, so mileage can be very high.

Trim levels and packages

Names and equipment vary by market and model year; the versions and packages listed below are the most commonly found in Europe.

Comparison of W222 and W223 versions

For most buyers, the best choice is a 2017–2020 W222 S 350 d or S 400 d: economical, powerful, and highly refined. The long-wheelbase version is worth choosing if passengers are frequently carried in the back, while the S 63 is strictly for true AMG enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions