The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is available in four models: S 450, S 560, AMG S 63 and AMG S 65. Each model is set apart by their engine, with the AMG models driving performance to the upper limits. The S 450 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine making 362 horsepower, while the S 560 employs a turbocharged 4.0L V8 producing 463 horsepower. The AMG S 63 gets a significant increase in performance, powered by a 4.0L turbocharged V8 making 603 horsepower and 664 lb-feet of torque. The AMG S 65 tops the lineup with a 6.0L V12 with 621 horsepower and 738 lb-feet of torque. The S-Class sends power to the wheels through a 9-speed multi-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission offering multiple driving modes. Rear-wheel drive is standard in the S 450 and S 560, while all models are available with the Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Interestingly, Mercedes also offers a hybrid version of the S-Class dubbed the S 560e. It utilizes a similar V6 engine to the one powering the S 450 but combines it with an electric motor for 469 horsepower. Fuel economy is obviously markedly improved over other models, even though it is a large car with a turbocharged V6.
Performance and handling in the S-Class is second to none. Multimode drive selection allows drivers to select from four different modes to change throttle response, shifting and steering control as desired. The expected comfortable ride is achieved through Mercedes' AIRMATIC suspension and adaptive damping system. Magic Body Control is an optional feature in the S-Class; it scans the road surface and changes the suspension settings to suit the surface and your own desired level of comfort and control.
The AMG S63 gets a special AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension that's tuned to make the most of the all-wheel drive system's capability and this car's more performance-oriented setup.
The S-Class, being the true luxury sedan that it is, has a long list of standard features and an array of additional options available. Standard features of the S 450 and S 560 include handcrafted cabin, LED exterior lighting, panorama roof, wood/leather steering wheel, heated 16-way power leather seats, remote start, soft-close doors, dual-zone climate control, cabin fragrance system, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, Burmester surround sound system, 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sirius XM, navigation and inductive wireless charging. Some of the many optional features include larger wheels, ventilated seats, heated and ventilated rear seats, massage seats, heated and cooled cup holders, heated windshield, upgraded sound system and rear seat entertainment system.
Personalization options on the AMG model include a carbon fiber package, a wood and Napa leather-wrapped steering wheel, the ceramic-brake upgrade, red brake calipers and special carbon fiber and black piano lacquer trim.
Safety takes center stage in the S-Class, once again. As part of a Driver Assistance Package, prospective buyers can add the DISTRONIC PLUS radar-based cruise control, PRE-SAFE autonomous braking, the PRE-SAFE PLUS rear-facing radar warning system, BAS PLUS with Cross Traffic Assist (using stereoscopic cameras to help prevent an accident), Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Protection. There's also Night View Assist Plus, a feature that continues to be refined, and uses infrared and camera information to detect animals and people along the road ahead.
