2022 Mercedes-Benz S500 Review: 6-Cylinder Serenity

Mercedes-Benz S500: The Secret Weapon of the S-Class Lineup

Luxury automakers often subscribe to the “more is more” philosophy, packing their flagship models with potent powertrains, cutting-edge technology, and a plethora of premium features. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the epitome of automotive opulence, is no exception. The latest generation represents the pinnacle of extravagance and technological advancement. However, a well-kept secret in the automotive world is that the base S500 model is the true gem of the lineup.

The S500 shares its turbocharged, mild-hybrid 3.0-liter inline-six engine with several other Mercedes vehicles. In this application, it produces 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The 48-volt integrated starter/generator system adds an extra boost of 21 hp and 184 lb.-ft. While this falls short of the V8-powered S580’s output by 67 hp and 132 lb.-ft., the S500 delivers more than ample performance, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds – just 0.4 seconds slower than its more powerful sibling. The inline-six engine is exceptionally smooth and produces a pleasing sound, while the nine-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly. The S500 also impresses with its efficiency, easily matching the EPA’s 30-mpg highway rating and exceeding the 21-mpg city figure. Like the S580, Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system comes standard.

Weighing in at over 4,600 pounds, the S500 exhibits precise and satisfying steering with surefooted handling characteristics. While there is a noticeable amount of body roll – a trait that can be described as “luxurious” in this context – the standard air suspension with adaptive dampers provides a supremely comfortable ride, even with the optional 21-inch wheels shod in Pirelli P Zero summer tires. For those seeking the ultimate in ride quality, Mercedes offers the road-scanning E-Active Body Control system for $6,500, although it’s not strictly necessary. The S500 in question is equipped with 4.5-degree rear-wheel steering, a $1,300 option that proves invaluable for maneuvering this 17-foot-long sedan through urban environments. It’s worth noting that the S500 is not available with the more extreme 10-degree setup offered on the S580 and the electric EQS, but the 4.5-degree system still provides a significant benefit.

The only visual differences between the S500 and S580 are the badges. This particular S500, adorned with the $4,300 AMG Line styling package, Emerald Green metallic paint, and silver multispoke wheels, presents a striking appearance. The retention of standard chrome trim, as opposed to the gloss black parts included in the $400 Night package, is a welcome touch. While the S500’s design may not represent a radical departure from the previous generation S-Class or the electric EQS, it remains a beautiful and sophisticated sedan. The pop-out door handles and intricate LED taillights are standout design elements.

The interior of this S500 is a testament to luxury, featuring Sienna Brown Nappa leather with diamond-patterned stitching on the seats and door panels, a $2,290 option that complements the $1,300 Flowing Lines piano-black trim beautifully. The S-Class cabin is remarkably quiet, thanks to double-pane glass and extensive sound deadening. Its technology-forward interior may be polarizing for some, but it’s a design that I find particularly appealing. While the touchscreen and glossy surfaces are prone to fingerprints, a simple cleaning cloth kept in the glovebox can easily remedy this. Most metal touchpoints in the S-Class feature knurled finishes, such as the seat controls and steering wheel stalks, and there’s a distinct absence of cheap-feeling materials. Mercedes’ animated multicolor ambient lighting system remains the most impressive in the industry, particularly in its more vibrant, nightclub-inspired modes.

The standard Burmester 3D surround-sound system in this test vehicle is exceptional, although the S500 can be equipped with Mercedes’ $6,730 30-speaker Burmester 4D setup, which includes subwoofers integrated into the seats. Another must-have option, at least in my opinion, is the $3,000 3D Technology Package. This package includes facial recognition technology, a captivating 3D gauge cluster, and an incredible augmented-reality head-up display. The latter is one of my favorite pieces of technology available in any modern vehicle. It enhances the already impressive MBUX navigation system and features mind-blowing graphics for driver-assist functions, such as projecting illuminated underlines for vehicles in your line of sight.

There is one area where the S500 can fall short of the S580’s offerings: the rear seats. While rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, powered sunshades, and the option for a $3,800 Warmth & Comfort package that adds heating and ventilation to the rear seats, the S580-exclusive Executive Line trim level provides a near-Maybach-like experience for backseat occupants. This package includes four-zone climate control, reclining and massaging rear seats with a powered footrest for the right seat, a tablet in the fold-down center armrest, additional ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, and extra airbags.

With a $1,050 destination charge included, the S500 starts at $111,100, while the well-equipped example tested here comes in at $127,330. The S580, on the other hand, starts at just $7,650 more than the S500, but a fully loaded version can easily exceed $150,000. Unless you have an unwavering desire for a V8 engine or frequently chauffeur (or are chauffeured by) discerning passengers in your S-Class, the S500 represents a compelling value proposition and is undoubtedly the sweet spot in the lineup.

Tags: Mercedes-Benz S500, S-Class, luxury sedan, inline-six engine, mild-hybrid, 4Matic all-wheel drive, air suspension, rear-wheel steering, AMG Line, Burmester sound system, augmented-reality head-up display, 3D Technology Package, Sienna Brown Nappa leather, Emerald Green metallic paint, automotive luxury, flagship model, efficiency, performance, technology, design, interior, comfort, value proposition.

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