2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

best car 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class ranks 1 out of 12 Super Luxury Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 101 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers a posh interior and capable performance, but a high price may limit its appeal.

At first glance, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class may not quicken the pulse like the Porsche Panamera, Audi A8 or BMW 7-Series. All of these rivals are either new or recently redesigned in the last few years, and while the S-Class has a stately, elegant look, it’s also had the same bodywork since 2007.

However, despite newer entries into the segment, the 2012 S-Class remains a fully-competitive luxury sedan. The returning S550 boasts a new engine that’s more fuel-efficient and more powerful, and reviewers love the S-Class’ spacious, opulent interior.

Shoppers looking for a bit of practicality may also like the new S350 Bluetec diesel, which takes the S-Class’ winning attributes and adds exceptional fuel economy and standard all-wheel drive. “Like all S-classes, the S350 exudes all the best Mercedes qualities,” writes Automobile Magazine. “It's spacious and luxurious, and its precision German engineering is evident in almost every detail.”

With so much comfort, luxury and well-rounded performance, the S-Class seems a shoo-in among luxury car shoppers. However, there is one major hurdle to overcome: price. With a base MSRP that’s several thousand dollars more than many rival sedans, the S-Class doesn’t come cheap.