When it comes to luxury automobiles, there’s no question that the S-Class is considered one of the absolute finest sedans on the market. The elegantly outfitted saloon is firmly seated at the top of the brand’s production vehicle lineup and includes a wealth of comfort and convenience features throughout. Naturally then, we jumped at the opportunity to get behind the wheel when Mercedes-Benz invited us to take the S580 4MATIC for a spin and give our readers the inside scoop on what makes the latest member of the S-Class family the new benchmark for the segment.
Beneath the bonnet of the latest S-Class lies the automaker’s tried and true 4.0L Biturbo V8 engine, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. In its modern form, the S580’s powertrain also benefits from the addition of a cleverly integrated Mild-Hybrid Drive system capable of producing up to 496 horsepower and an impressive 516 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than ample performance to help get you through traffic in a flash. AIRMATIC suspension and an adaptive damping system ensure an ultra-smooth ride, with optional 21” wheels and noise reduction foam tires adding next-level peace and tranquility to the S580’s whisper-quiet cabin.
Completely redesigned for 2022, the S580 4MATIC’s large front grille is unmistakable and wittily integrates the vehicle’s radar, sensors, and front facing camera. Also new for the latest member of the S-Class family, Mercedes-Benz have reintroduced their famous hood ornament to add a bit of extra pizazz and help onlookers easily identify the ultra-luxurious executive sedan.
The new S-Class offers a number of intelligent driver assists, as well, to further enhance the driving experience and deliver the utmost in advanced safety technology. A few highlights include rear-axle steering, active parking assist, a surround view camera system, dash cam, blind spot assist, and an ingenious LED light system with adaptive and ultrawide high beams that puts on a nifty lightshow at startup. Additionally, the S580 4MATIC sedan incorporates a gorgeous ambient interior lighting package capable of a multitude of color combinations (also found in the EQS580 we previously tested), along with elegant exterior lighting to help you comfortably enter and exit the vehicle at night.
Comfort amenities abound in each of the model’s three distinct trim levels – Luxury Line, AMG Line, and Executive Line. Each includes unique features such as touch-sensitive controls, soft close doors, a panoramic roof, stunning diamond-pattern leather stitched interiors, optional microfiber suede pillow rests, a Mercedes-Benz Air Balance Cabin Fragrance system, flush receding door handles with power folding mirrors, and perfectly bolstered front seats that automatically inflate to hug driver and front seat passenger during cornering. Heated and ventilated 12-way power front seats w/ memory and massage functions, plus optional rear seat functionality and heated steering wheel and armrests, deliver additional comfort during any season.
Back seat passengers (or for those owners who prefer to use a chauffeur) also benefit from the new S580’s upgrades with powered retractable side and rear window shades and considerable rear-seat leg room. Along with a handful of other added features, an optional removable rear-cabin MBUX tablet gives access to the vehicle’s interface and comfort settings when equipped with the Rear Seat Package or with the Executive Line trim.
On the tech front, the S580’s portrait-oriented 12.8-inch central touchscreen infotainment system utilizes OLED technology for superior clarity. Coupled with a 12.3-inch high-resolution instrument cluster, the new S-Class also includes augmented video for navigation and heads-up display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system.
After spending a few days at the helm of the new S580, we can confidently confirm that the S-Class continues to epitomize the definition of luxury. The elevated level of fit and finish, along with a plethora of new technology, make this one model we absolutely must add to the fleet. If you have yet to experience the S580 4MATIC for yourself, we highly recommend a test drive at your local dealership. We simply can’t think of a more luxurious option for daily driving.