Mercedes launched the 2027 S-Class with a 537-hp V8, three-screen Superscreen cockpit, and generative AI integration, starting at $121,000 plus destination when U.S. sales begin late 2025. The S580 hits 60 mph in 3.9 seconds(Performance and efficiency claims are manufacturer estimates unless otherwise noted. Actual results vary based on driving conditions, temperature, load, terrain, and driving style.). The S500 delivers 448 hp from a new inline-six. Both run standard all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic. Out-the-door pricing in Texas with 8.25% sales tax and typical $900 dealer documentation fee: approximately $132,900.

The S580 trades the previous twin-turbo inline-six for a 4.0-liter V8 that Mercedes describes as flat-plane-crank design—a crankshaft configuration rare in production luxury sedans and typically reserved for high-performance applications. Car and Driver has requested independent verification of the flat-plane architecture; Mercedes engineering has not yet provided technical documentation. The S500 swaps in a fresh inline-six making 448 hp. Mercedes widened the grille and lit it together with the hood star—the first glowing three-pointed emblem on a production S-Class. Rear lights mirror the new E-Class design. The flat-plane V8 fires with a higher-pitched wail than traditional S-Class V8s, closer to a Ferrari than a Maybach.

Three screens—ranging from 12.3 to 14.3 inches—span the dash in the Superscreen layout. Rear passengers control two 13.1-inch screens with detachable remotes and streaming access. Heated seat belts warm passengers from ignition. The S580e plug-in hybrid pairs the S500 inline-six with an electric motor for 584 hp total and an EPA-estimated 47 miles of all-electric range from a 22.7 kWh battery. The S580e's 47-mile electric range covers a typical Los Angeles commute from Pasadena to downtown and back without burning gasoline.

Mercedes has not disclosed charging specifications or cold-weather range data for the S580e. Previous plug-in S-Class models lost 20–30% range below 20°F. EPA fuel economy ratings for the S500 and S580 remain pending; Mercedes has not confirmed Combined mpg figures. Owner-reported data from Fuelly.com is unavailable for pre-production models.

The S-Class competes against the Lucid Air Grand Touring, which starts at $107,400 after federal tax credit with 516 miles EPA range, and the BMW i7 xDrive60, which starts at $105,700 with 318 miles EPA range. The S580e plug-in qualifies for the federal $7,500 EV tax credit if final assembly occurs in North America; Mercedes has not confirmed eligibility. Average annual full-coverage insurance for 2024 S-Class models: $4,200 (Quadrant Insurance data, 2025 rates). Five-year depreciation for previous-generation S-Class averaged 48% (Edmunds data); expect similar trajectory for 2027 models.

True Cost to Own Five Years:(Cost projections are estimates only and do not constitute financial advice. Your actual costs will vary.)

• Purchase: $132,900 out-the-door Texas
• Fuel (S580, 15,000 mi/year, $3.50/gal, est. 22 mpg Combined): $11,932
• Insurance ($4,200/year): $21,000
• Maintenance (Mercedes Care Plus): $4,500
• Depreciation (48%): $63,792
• Total: $234,124 over five years

Where It Works—Where It Doesn't:

Works: Urban commutes under 50 miles daily (S580e), highway cruising in temperate climates, corporate fleets prioritizing rear-seat luxury, owners with 240V home charging and predictable routes.

Doesn't: Cold-weather regions without garage charging (S580e range loss unverified), rural areas with limited Level 2 charging infrastructure, buyers prioritizing long-term value retention over brand prestige, road-trippers needing 400+ mile single-tank range.

The question is whether 47 miles of electric range justifies carrying both powertrains in the S580e—and whether the V8's throttle rush outweighs the inline-six's efficiency on your daily routes. Final MSRP, destination charges, and EPA Combined ratings arrive when Mercedes confirms U.S. delivery timeline beyond "late 2025."