Without fail, each generation of Mercedes-Benz S-Class is tasked with setting new standards of excellence. There’s a little joke in the industry that if you want to know what’s going to be featuring in your family wagon in a decade’s time, look at the the equipment list of what we consider to be one of best luxury hybrids you can buy.

Mercedes has, as befits its flagship, pulled out all the stops to create a car that pretty much tops the charts for comfort, serenity and technology. It’s so good that we named it our Best Luxury Car for 2022, and a runner-up in the 2023 awards.

The S-Class needs to be exceptional, as it faces a diverse and incredibly capable set of rivals in the form of the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and the Rolls-Royce Ghost. It also has to battle top-end SUVs, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS as well as the ever-popular Range Rover and Bentley Bentayga. And for those considering going fully electric, there’s always the Mercedes-Benz EQS.

There are many, many vehicles the S-Class needs to outclass to get your attention – and, apologies for the spoiler, but we think it manages to combine world-class comfort, performance and technology, to do just that. There are plenty of choices on offer – petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid, while you’re also given the choice of two body lengths, with the long-wheelbase version offering extravagant amounts of rear-seat lounging room.

There are six trim levels to choose from – AMG Line, AMG Line Premium, Long AMG Line Premium, Long AMG Line Premium Executive, Long AMG Line Premium Plus and Long AMG Line Premium Plus Executive. Even the entry-level AMG Line model is luxuriously equipped, coming with 19-inch wheels, air suspension with self-levelling, keyless-go with seamless door handles, Intelligent LED headlights, parking package with reversing camera and power-closing doors and bootlid.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Mercedes-Benz S-Class including its practicality, its interior, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.