2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
The S-Class is Mercedes’ flagship luxury sedan that was first introduced in 1954. By far their largest sedan, the S-Class has everything you could want in a Mercedes. The current generation was brought to the United States for the 2007 model year.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the ultimate Mercedes experience, combining elegance, power, and technology. Its cutting edge features and blistering acceleration make it an exciting ride. If this generation can solve their reliability problems, then the S-Class will easily be one of the top contenders in its class.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the S-Class 5 stars for overall mechanical reliability. The 1992-1999 S-Class had issues with EGR valves, vibrations, and steering problems. It was recalled three times. The last generation had issues with air conditioners, brake wear, rough idling, water leaks, and overheating windshield washer hoses. It was recalled eight times. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. However, due to its sheer size, expect it to hold up well in a crash. Brake assist, eight airbags, night vision, and stability control come standard. Also included is Mercedes’ PreSafe, which can detect an oncoming collision and adjust the interior in order to protect passengers.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Super-powered engines
+ Cutting edge features
+ Advanced safety features
Cons
- Awkward controls
- Reliability concerns
- No crash test scores
Head-To-Head Competition:
The 2007 BMW M5 costs $4,000 less and has a V10 with 118 more hp. The Jaguar XJ R costs $3,000 less and adds a moonroof, but lacks a CD changer and has a smaller engine. The Lexus LS 600h includes AWD, a DVD player, 56 more hp, and gets up to six more miles to the gallon, but costs over $17,000 more.
What Others Are Saying:
“Despite lingering reliability issues with the previous generation, we’d wager that the all-new S-Class will be a hit.” – Forbes
“The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the company’s flagship sedan, so it has been chosen as the platform to trot out the latest research. It also gives this carmaker a chance to shore up its quality reputation–one that has been hurt in recent years by some not-ready-for-prime-time technology. If the S-Class gets it right, this should prove to be a very popular car for Mercedes-Benz.” – C|Net
“So, at the end of the day what do we have? A superb automobile with a price tag of approx. 90 thousand dollars. A car in which you can cruise for ever without getting tired equipped with every conceivable extra to make your journey as pleasant and as safe as possible. If you have to have an accident-this is the car to have it in. If you are a geek, you’ll figure out the technical bits in second. If you are a typical 61 year old owner let your chauffeur figure it first before you get an apoplectic fit. Then sit next to him make notes and before you know, hey presto- you too will be able to enjoy all the S class has to offer.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturer web site.
