This generation S-Class is far superior to the current one, where you'll find an unsightly 1st generation iPad glued to the dashboard and an exterior that is about as shapely and elegant as a bar of soap. With every release of a modern sports or luxury car, I can't help but feel that designs peaked throughout 2005-2015.
I beg to differ. 1960s please. Lambo Muira and Espada, Ferrari Daytona, Ford GT40, De Tomaso Mangusta, RR Silver Shadow, Rover P6, Jaguar E-type and XJ6, Ford Capri, MGB GT, Triumph Spitfire.
@@john1703 there were several peaks, let's just put it like that. There were a lot of stunning designs in the 50s, 60s and then fewer in the 70s, 80s, 90s before everything getting more interesting again in the early 2000s until maybe six years ago. BUT one could argue the absolute peak of car design was from the early 2000s until a few years ago because there might have been some absolute stunners in the 50s and 60s, but those were SPECIAL cars, expensive cars, while car designs from the early 2000s until recently were very good overall, with even some of the cheapest smallest cars boasting exceptional designs.
This comment is pure gold. Absolutely spot on. As a car nerd and full on petrolhead, I feel like an old man talking constantly about how cars used to look so much better and how they all look the same nowadays. I just don’t care about new cars. Specially electric ones. I hope to keep my CLS shooting brake forever. I find it absolutely beautiful. I do sound like an old man but I’m just in my 30s
@@brunomferreira as the owner of a 2017 Mercedes CLS I completely agree. I deliberately didn't buy the current generation model as it just didn't look as special. Apart from maybe the 8 Series there aren't that many new cars around that look stunning.
@@john1703 Yeh, I do get you on that. There were some wonderful designs, I feel like if I bought a Mangusta I'd get home from work to find it had fried a steak, drank my beer and punched my neighbour.
I drove that model with magic body control while I was a salesman at Mercedes. It is a massively expensive option. It remains the most amazing driving experience I’ve ever had.
I bought one of these last night, a 2014, it felt amazing driving it home….oh yeah….but then I woke up this morning and realised it was just a dream because I can’t afford one lol
I’ve ran S classes for near 20 years and a 2016 model was my last before retirement. I had the long wheelbase to drive around 35,000 miles per year chosing the SE model, 18inch wheels which give a better ride than the AMG trim with bigger wheels, Try to find one with distronic and dynamic heated and cooled seats - it makes life much easier. The only trouble I had was with the small systems battery which can throw up lots of software errors so replace it as soon as you get any issues. Other than that, there’s nothing more comfortable to be in.
Matt, you're my kind of car guy! Getting excited about the right kind of vehicles, not just the rarris and lambos. Love your deeply flawed thought process for keeping cars from which I also suffer, and your general demeanour. Your videos are a joy to watch!
That's 2 of us already! Will take whatever he says even if I know it makes no sense other than fact that I love the car I am in; willing to pay for the love... Top guy!
I drive one of these for a guy I know doing private hire. It's a 2018 3.0d amg line. It's been well used and has some scrapes but it is a fantastic drive.
Geeky fact; whilst the S Class is usually used by Mercedes to showcase and launch new tech, the adaptive headlights actually premiered in the CLS a year or two before this series of S Class. I think I might need to get out more
@monk3yboy69 with respect, as per my reply to Dominic Wood, above, I am not talking about basic, adaptive lights. From memory, the Citroën lights angled left and right when the steering wheel moved. The CLS has sensors at the top of the windscreen that the headlights respond to based on whether you are going round a bend and whether there are oncoming cars on the other side of the road. They use multiple LED lights on each side that turn on and off and move. Both sides work independently of each other. Both sets of lights on each side can go up, down left and right, and at the same time, so that the road ahead has the optimum lighting without blinding other drivers. For example, the left headlight might be full beam and angled, whilst the right beam is simultaneously dipped, so as not to glare the eyes of oncoming drivers on the other side of the road. Trust me. It was a world first, and it was on a CLS, not an S Class. Geeky, but undoubtedly a fact. There are videos on UA-cam that demonstrate how they work.
I own and drive the same year E Class convertible AMG spec with same engine (E350 BlueTec). This is my first diesel engine after years of owning only petrol ones. It has now covered 144k miles and I absolutely love this car. It has been looked after by previous owners keeping it serviced only by Mercedes since new which I had to do the same to maintain its faultless drive.
You had me on this as soon as I saw the part wooden steering wheel. If i ever move on from my beloved 2006 XJ, this is where I shall head. It's a horrible to have to admit that I'm all about the wooden steering wheel!
You will not regret it. I've had mine for 4 years (28k miles to 64k miles) and have enjoyed every second of it. It is very important to find one that is nicely optioned. Well worth the wait.
twenty thousand quid! IN Australia a 2014 S class starts at $47,000 with 198,000klm and goes to $100,000. But then we have always been hammered with high prices for luxury cars.
My boss used to order a new S-class everytime a new one came out, since 1979. I can confirm the W222 was his favourite. He took delivery of the latest W223 before he passed away in June 2023 and it was far too technical (I loved it). I’ve also had 7 S-class’ myself and can confirm the W222 was the perfect all round car. However the W223 is worlds apart, the ride is the best I’ve ever witnessed.
The ride might be better, but the quality, design is a huge downgrade. the facelift W222 will be a future classic, i drove a 2020 S63, that car is insane!
@@HighPeakAutos And thank you for another "Should You Buy a ..." video. I really like these, but I understand the "I bought a cheap ..." videos get more views.
The perfect and prettiest S class to ever excist. Timeless design, interior is amazing and soo comfortable. i love the W223 too but these go for 30k euro and you cant beat it, ultimate daily and car to be driven in! Great video and review as always Matt! :D
Just had the same model last week for a couple of days Its amazing how it stood the test of time It was a 2015 s350cdi 4matic with less than 100.000kms on the clock AMG Line on the outside and every single option ever on the inside, literally everything It was a dream to drive The W222 is the best S class ever imo W221 a close second, the new one feels like a cheap 2016 c class with all the cracking noises
I recently bought the post facelift W222, because in my opinion, it’s a design for the ages. Can’t be beat. In the US, all the S-Classes are LWB. So from my perspective, the SWB looks odd. For us, the LWB is the “real” S-Class, as it’s the only one we have
As a new car, I agree you want soft-close everything, heated everything, cooled everything, double-glazing, sunroof, etc. As a used car, maybe you're okay with fewer things to go wrong, and don't see the lack of options as a deal breaker, especially if you've been looking for a blue car with beige interior, rather than the plentiful monotone with black or grey interior. Personally, I'd be glad not to be faced with the prospect of fixing a soft-close door or boot lid. In the UK, I don't think you need cooled seats, and people of a certain age would be afraid to put the seat cooling on. As it's a short wheelbase/non-chauffer car, the absence of heated rear seats can also likely be readily forgiven. The absence of a sunroof is down to personal preference, although I think most people in the UK would want it. Maybe the first owner was very tall and needed the extra headroom. On the other hand, the absence of double-glazing on a car like this seems like as significant oversight. And the absence of a heated steering wheel is almost as annoying. If not for the colour scheme, I'd be inclined to think it was spec'd by a leasing company.
can’t say I agree. Vast majority of the stuff you’ve listed doesn’t actually go wrong much, and if it does it doesn’t cost the world to fix. It’s the suspension, engine and lights and glass that will cost you the pounds! All of which is on every version of S class (minus the double glazed windows). If you’re gonna go luxury, load it up. If you’re gonna get a low spec S class you’d be better off going for a high spec E class.
They are beautiful. I own a 2015, facelift W212, E Class Estate in Hyacinth Red and it’s my retirement car. Every time I drive to one of my friends houses, they always comment how beautiful it is. I met up with one yesterday to go for coffee and, again, he said how luxurious it is. I’m just about to carry out a B5 service. The parts, from Mercedes, cost me under £150. That’s a great cost for the motoring that it offers. ❤️
I worked with a guy in the late 90s, who bought an old S class Mercedes diesel with circa 80 K miles on and used it for his company car for the next 10 years. He rocked up another 300K miles on this car and still managed to sell it for a few Bob afterwards, it didn’t cost a fortune to Service because he used an independent specialist as you recommend. Fantastic cars. great review Matt 👍
The W222 is indeed the best S-Class ever. I remember seeing it debut back in March 2013 in the rain at the A380 hanger. If you visit the MB World forum, you'd see that owners are not happy with the new S-Class. I wish we got the small wheel base model, it will be the perfect S-Class since I don't need to chauffeur anyone.
Thanks for a "refreshing" review. I tested a 2014 Range Rover Vogue and a 2016 S-Class like the one in the video and ride quality understood as comfort is absolutely, totally and completely different. I'm looking for the smoothest ride possible and Range Rover doesn't feel very composed when riding over bumps and in fact it's not much better than SUVs with conventional suspension Perhaps longer wheel travel helps it but then in the S-Class it's a mind-blowing experience. I've driven a BMW 7-Series from around 2018, an Audi A8 from 2015, GLE from 2019, Q7 with air suspension from 2017 I believe and some other cars with conventional suspension and the S-Class is out of their league. I've never owned any Mercedes so it's not ego talking, I am just so impressed. However, comparison the a Range Rover in the video doesn't sound like reality to me at all after today's experience. That Range was on 20" rims by the way, so not overly huge - I guess they're standard. Also, interior quality of a Range Rover is no match to the one in an S-Class, especilly considering hard seats of a Range Rover from before a facelift in 2018 or somewhere there.
Long time S Class driver on 3rd gen. Now W222 S500 4M and V221 S65. Family hauler SQ7 Diesel. I agree with all the aforementioned points! The RR is overrated and a bit bumpy. I tested an L405 525HP on Friday as I wanted to swap my SQ7 for it. But honestly, being used to 4WD steering and active suspension like on the Audi I could not help and force myself to love the RR to bits, because it was a huge letdown. On the Autobahn the S Classes are leaps and bounds ahead and even the SQ7 is a more competent mile muncher at speeds like 150-170 kph. Did some dB(a) testing as well and the Audi came out quieter than the RR Autobiography, at Speed (130kph, 160kph) The S class remains the gold standard (though I have not driven the new Range L460, yet - I don’t spend 200k ish on a car, that’s a silly thing to do) The SQ7 is not a beautiful car on the outside. Mine is equipped with the fully upholstered dash, doors and double glazing, no panoramic roof. It’s a very nice cabin and second to none being compared with the Range Rover L405. I wanted to sell the Audi because I always liked the Range’s appearance but after all looks ain’t everything and as a family of five the Audi will serve us better. Before my test drive I was a 100 percent sure that I’ll put the trigger on the Range as I was planning to get one ever since the L405 has been released. Ah and awful Infotainment system in the facelifted L405. Very counterintuitive. Worst thing: no HUD available 😢
As someone who owns one it’s definitely worth it, everyone who’s been in it is in love with it, I am slightly scared of it and its faultless MB service history but I knew what I was getting in to
…the mental age of Sir Richard Attenborough, ha-ha-ha! Very good, Matt! Sometimes your one-liner comments are worth just as much as your excellent car presentations.
I would love a black Cherokee 4.0 Limited! The styling just reminds me of good times in the 90s like watching The Goonies on VHS with my mates and thinking what a cool motor it was.
This era of 2014 Merc s class are now Timeless but looks very beautiful and also very comfortable I personally would own one fantastic content matt keep up the contents
I ran the 5th generation S Class LWB for 13 years from new. Serviced it regularly and always enjoyed the armchair ride on my 50km per day commute. No horrific costs until the end. Depreciation was effectively 100% in the end. Our annual road tax on the smallest engine version was €1,500 or £1,280 which on a 13 year old is bank-breaking. No longer commute any distance, so I can now keep my sofa at home.
I have the American long wheel base gas model S550. 7 years of ownership and so far at 50K miles replaced brakes all around rotors pads and sensors was $1600 for parts and $400 for labor. I had to replace one wheel that had been repaired before I bought the car and MB wanted $1800 plus the old wheel. I was able to get a new one direct from the original manufacturer for under $300. My gas model gets me 23 mpg on the freeway.
Excellent review of an excellent car. Applause for always mentioning the vital importance of regularly servicing the gearbox/transmission. I learnt that the hard way.
I own a 2019 S560 and it has been amazing. Had previous w221 and it was a nightmare. Mercedes are amazing to own. Like any vehicle maintaining them will preserve them. Great video. I really enjoy your reviews. Thanks so much, Cheers.
Great review as always but you're wrong about the LWB model, the car was designed as an LWB model and looks better in that guise in my opinion. Plus , if buying used, most LWB models have the executive seating pack with electric reclining, heated and cooled rear seats, and a twin moon sun roof, a 4k option. I'm looking for a new car as my panamera turbo is killing me on fuel so I'm going for barge next, I thought 7 series G11 was the route until I looked at S Class prices, I'm hooked.
It was one of these or a Jaguar XJ Portfolio last summer. The XJ won my heart as the Mercedes S Class looked like a bloated version of my wee C Class and the Jag is a future classic, since they went crazy and stopped production of their big beautiful saloon!
We had a 2015 S350d Lang as a taxi from new->490,000km/304k miles and it was super reliable. Had every single option other than the burmester 3D. Awesome car and realible.
Really enjoyed this video. I always buy a S class and have never been disappointed. All S class’ sold in US are the long version and are usually fully loaded. My first S class was a 2014, then 2017 and now a 2022. I absolutely love the S class and would not own another car. I also have bought Range Rovers and have loved each of them except for the 2024 Autobiography that I owned for three months and traded for a “24 Macan. For the first time I absolutely hated my last Range Rover. Very unfortunate because I have always been so loyal to the brand. Amazing how one bad apple can totally turn one off to a car manufacturer.
A bonus for me would be a CD player, I love my 2011 C class, which I've had 4 years, sadly just had a 12 month min medical ban for epileptic absent seizures, questionable whether will drive again, but hanging on to it whilst hope, 3rd Mercedes, lovely cars to own, the odd big bill but is a teenager this year and gets well taken care of by specialist.
I drive a company car and have no intention of buying a car in the near future but I’m a big fan Matt. A fellow old soul and car enthusiast. Loved the vid. You’re a guy I’d buy a pint for in a pub on a rainy afternoon!
I bought a 2016 LWB S550 two months ago. 54,000 miles, $35,000. The original sticker was in the car. $120,400. I stole it 😂. It's been flawless 👍. I also have a 2016 740i and 2014 V8 Range Rover Sport. I like all 3 equally. I definitely have that rainy day fund. I keep at least $5,000 in the account.
The last time I was in an S class was when I booked a limo to LHR. We were travelling up the east coast of the US, so both had large suitcases. After many attempts, the driver confessed only one would fit. We had to have the other squeezed in the back with us. I was surprised.
Always like your review videos (as well as the others)... I remember the first video i watched when discovering your channel was you reviewing an old Volvo V70 you'd bought for 500 quid or so... Been watching since, watched the back catalogue before, and honestly haven't looked back... Brilliant work mate!
Thanks for the review I have been eyeing the W222 as an upgrade to my W212 e350. I really want the night vision option so bad for country roads and avoiding kangaroos.
My 2013 221 long wheelbase 350CDI has a standard 90 litre fuel tank. I looked at LOTS of cars before buying my lovely high spec/right colour combination car. Use them regularly and every time you fill up I use Millers Diesel Additive and have never had any DPF or EGR problems in thirteen years in my last two OM642 engined cars. Unfortunately we can't get 4matic S Class cars in the UK.
Hi mate, Thanks for the video. Tbh, you shared my feelings. I love W222 but it's nearly impossible to find a fully spec'd example. I don't buy a W222 without massage seats, 4 matic, panoramic double sunroof, cooling seat, lane departure, self-parking, adaptive cruise, reclining rear seats, double glazed windows and Magic Body Control. You're definitely right about common diesel issues fixing costs. DPF, adBlue level sensor, Nox sensors, temperature sensors, catalytic converter, egr valve and etc. And I could see headlight condensation on this car which is very common on W222 :( I suggest facelifted 2017 onwards W222 S400dL straight 6 cylinder new tech engine for diesel lovers.
Content is on point as usual, production is really excellent on this review. A quality piece of media, well done to you and your team, a pleasure to watch.
The key risk when buying a car like this is that dealer labour and parts charges are those for a very expensive car, when new. Works best if most tasks can be handled DIY but there remains a risk if something big, complex or elusive goes wrong.
The comments about this S-Class car also applies to a C Class Saloon (petrol) in my opinion: 1) They are so quiet, you can't hear the engine (the petrol engine is very quiet anyway) or any noise from outside the car. 2) The soft comfortable nature of the car is lovely (S model - not Sport or AMG) 3) you are in a bubble in your own little world. 4) The driving cost is great, but then any savings are lost when it requires repair bills (£5000+ in the last 12 months spent) 5) I always put premium fuel in every time.
Someone bumped my car so rather than a courtesy car, I got his insurer to pay for a chauffeur driven S Class to the airport and back. It is the finest car I’ve driven in. The Volvo V90 Cross Country that was in for repair is actually more comfortable than any other chauffeured car that I’d been in such as E Class or A8. Can’t imagine how good the latest shape S Class is ❤
Not a fan of the outside styling but love the interior. Diesels are fine as long as you don’t just run it around town but do a good run at highway speeds every now and then. Mercedes had the most recalls of any other brand which amazed me. Interesting video, good to see how the other half live.
Years ago, before retirement, I had, second hand, a W126 500SEL (OK) and later a W140 600SEL (truly stupendous - cost £4k, another £6k to get it right: a tank). Took the W140 to 150k - the most solid, comfortable car I have ever had. Even better than my current 2009 Range Rover 5-litre Autobiography. I could be tempted by a petrol LWB S-Class.
I owned some of the w126 models as well as a w220 and a w222. As long as the w126s hadn't been neglected they were fine cars with rock solid everything including reliability. My w220 was an unreliable, financial nightmare. It never actually broke down on me and when it was going it drove beautifully (helped by its ABC suspension- a fortune to fix) but I was always waiting for the next huge repair bill which was guaranteed to come along and it did! The build on the w220 wasn't as bad as I read but things like closing the glovebox or sunroof were embarrassing. My w222 was an S500e PHEV which I only had for a month before it was stolen which oddly enough proved to be a massive relief. I had to fit a new pipe for the a/c but it exploded the day after it had been repaired due to excess pressure from somewhere? The Magic Vision windshield cleaning system also gave up the ghost leaving me with a magically big repair bill. The car also started telling me that it didn't recognise its own key so I had to remove the start/stop button and insert the key instead. The whole experience put me off MB cars and I replaced it with a VW Arteon which has been superb and the amount of rear legroom for the family is the same as a lwb S-class so we're all happy :) I always fancied the w140 but I viewed it as way too wide for London roads, of course now we have all of these US style pick ups, SUVs and 4x4s so it doesn't seem so bad now. I expect your 600SEL was the original full fat 408 bhp one ?
@@mercmush Well, we're all hoping that the big bill won't arrive🙂 Yes it was the full fat, orange indicator lights one. Once warm I used to rev it out to 6,500 revs, no problems and a great sound.
DPF & EGR deletes should be standard on all modern diesel purchases. Deleted my EGR and instantly got another 10mpg now it's not eating soot through the inlet!
This generation S-Class is far superior to the current one, where you'll find an unsightly 1st generation iPad glued to the dashboard and an exterior that is about as shapely and elegant as a bar of soap. With every release of a modern sports or luxury car, I can't help but feel that designs peaked throughout 2005-2015.
I beg to differ. 1960s please. Lambo Muira and Espada, Ferrari Daytona, Ford GT40, De Tomaso Mangusta, RR Silver Shadow, Rover P6, Jaguar E-type and XJ6, Ford Capri, MGB GT, Triumph Spitfire.
@@john1703 there were several peaks, let's just put it like that.
There were a lot of stunning designs in the 50s, 60s and then fewer in the 70s, 80s, 90s before everything getting more interesting again in the early 2000s until maybe six years ago.
BUT one could argue the absolute peak of car design was from the early 2000s until a few years ago because there might have been some absolute stunners in the 50s and 60s, but those were SPECIAL cars, expensive cars, while car designs from the early 2000s until recently were very good overall, with even some of the cheapest smallest cars boasting exceptional designs.
This comment is pure gold. Absolutely spot on. As a car nerd and full on petrolhead, I feel like an old man talking constantly about how cars used to look so much better and how they all look the same nowadays. I just don’t care about new cars. Specially electric ones. I hope to keep my CLS shooting brake forever. I find it absolutely beautiful. I do sound like an old man but I’m just in my 30s
@@brunomferreira as the owner of a 2017 Mercedes CLS I completely agree. I deliberately didn't buy the current generation model as it just didn't look as special. Apart from maybe the 8 Series there aren't that many new cars around that look stunning.
@@john1703 Yeh, I do get you on that. There were some wonderful designs, I feel like if I bought a Mangusta I'd get home from work to find it had fried a steak, drank my beer and punched my neighbour.
The W222 is my favourite S-class model. It’s just beautiful and the interior isn’t plastered with screens…
Wow! Sadly I'm in Denmark, where we drive on the right side of the road :D@@fxkraft1037
I drove that model with magic body control while I was a salesman at Mercedes. It is a massively expensive option. It remains the most amazing driving experience I’ve ever had.
I bought one of these last night, a 2014, it felt amazing driving it home….oh yeah….but then I woke up this morning and realised it was just a dream because I can’t afford one lol
Never get the first year of an s class....
how is it mate, iam looking now too.?
They are cheaper in Singapore they cost around 9000 usd used 2015 model
I’ve ran S classes for near 20 years and a 2016 model was my last before retirement. I had the long wheelbase to drive around 35,000 miles per year chosing the SE model, 18inch wheels which give a better ride than the AMG trim with bigger wheels, Try to find one with distronic and dynamic heated and cooled seats - it makes life much easier. The only trouble I had was with the small systems battery which can throw up lots of software errors so replace it as soon as you get any issues. Other than that, there’s nothing more comfortable to be in.
Matt, you're my kind of car guy! Getting excited about the right kind of vehicles, not just the rarris and lambos. Love your deeply flawed thought process for keeping cars from which I also suffer, and your general demeanour. Your videos are a joy to watch!
That's 2 of us already! Will take whatever he says even if I know it makes no sense other than fact that I love the car I am in; willing to pay for the love... Top guy!
Facelift version of this in silver or black is just sublime
I drive one of these for a guy I know doing private hire. It's a 2018 3.0d amg line. It's been well used and has some scrapes but it is a fantastic drive.
I can relate to that feeling of driving around in your own bubble “cause the real world sucks” I have that feeling most days on the M1 mate.
Haha same
Geeky fact; whilst the S Class is usually used by Mercedes to showcase and launch new tech, the adaptive headlights actually premiered in the CLS a year or two before this series of S Class.
I think I might need to get out more
Adapting hi beams are on my 2011 E Class
@dominicwood3750 those won't be the dynamic, active lights. They were a world first on the CLS.
They were not a world first on the CLS.
CITROEN DS was the first maker to introduce adaptive active headlights to the mass market in 1967
@monk3yboy69 with respect, as per my reply to Dominic Wood, above, I am not talking about basic, adaptive lights. From memory, the Citroën lights angled left and right when the steering wheel moved.
The CLS has sensors at the top of the windscreen that the headlights respond to based on whether you are going round a bend and whether there are oncoming cars on the other side of the road. They use multiple LED lights on each side that turn on and off and move. Both sides work independently of each other. Both sets of lights on each side can go up, down left and right, and at the same time, so that the road ahead has the optimum lighting without blinding other drivers. For example, the left headlight might be full beam and angled, whilst the right beam is simultaneously dipped, so as not to glare the eyes of oncoming drivers on the other side of the road.
Trust me. It was a world first, and it was on a CLS, not an S Class. Geeky, but undoubtedly a fact. There are videos on UA-cam that demonstrate how they work.
@@wfifa199yup and Citroën also had a superior hydropneumatic suspension in 1955 already.
I own and drive the same year E Class convertible AMG spec with same engine (E350 BlueTec). This is my first diesel engine after years of owning only petrol ones. It has now covered 144k miles and I absolutely love this car. It has been looked after by previous owners keeping it serviced only by Mercedes since new which I had to do the same to maintain its faultless drive.
You had me on this as soon as I saw the part wooden steering wheel. If i ever move on from my beloved 2006 XJ, this is where I shall head. It's a horrible to have to admit that I'm all about the wooden steering wheel!
Wood for the win! My last one had more wood than horse power at the end of its time 🤣🤣
What's the spec on your XJ?
You will not regret it. I've had mine for 4 years (28k miles to 64k miles) and have enjoyed every second of it. It is very important to find one that is nicely optioned. Well worth the wait.
@@stu1701E it’s a sovereign
Dear, oh, dear.
twenty thousand quid! IN Australia a 2014 S class starts at $47,000 with 198,000klm and goes to $100,000. But then we have always been hammered with high prices for luxury cars.
Totally agree ,Australia is now the land of the scam and rip off ……. Not just cars but just about everything.
Denmark says wait a minute
Twenty thousand AUD got me a '10 E-class... a V222 is certainly on my future wishlist though!
Every time an Aussie cries over car prices, I take to the conversion tool and check. 20% upmark is not the end of the world.
I have 2015 S550 LWB , V8 biturbo, 450HP … absolutely fantastic car … I would definitely recommend this awesome car to anyone
My boss used to order a new S-class everytime a new one came out, since 1979. I can confirm the W222 was his favourite. He took delivery of the latest W223 before he passed away in June 2023 and it was far too technical (I loved it). I’ve also had 7 S-class’ myself and can confirm the W222 was the perfect all round car. However the W223 is worlds apart, the ride is the best I’ve ever witnessed.
The ride might be better, but the quality, design is a huge downgrade. the facelift W222 will be a future classic, i drove a 2020 S63, that car is insane!
"The real world sucks," possibly the best delivered understatement I've heard. Genius!
Top notch reviewing as always, Mat!
Thanks
@@HighPeakAutos And thank you for another "Should You Buy a ..." video. I really like these, but I understand the "I bought a cheap ..." videos get more views.
Yeah I prefer the reviews too (and the auto trader ones), but the algorithm is king unfortunately on UA-cam@@nigel.w
@@nigel.w I much prefer doing these but the other videos are way more successful
1:46 the cloud coming from the BMW X5 lol
came here to say this
Ha ha yes saw it....
Atleast not from the exhaust this time lol
I saw that.
The perfect and prettiest S class to ever excist. Timeless design, interior is amazing and soo comfortable. i love the W223 too but these go for 30k euro and you cant beat it, ultimate daily and car to be driven in!
Great video and review as always Matt! :D
Couldn't agree more!
I haven't watched the video yet but yes , you should buy one 😎
Just had the same model last week for a couple of days
Its amazing how it stood the test of time
It was a 2015 s350cdi 4matic with less than 100.000kms on the clock
AMG Line on the outside and every single option ever on the inside, literally everything
It was a dream to drive
The W222 is the best S class ever imo
W221 a close second, the new one feels like a cheap 2016 c class with all the cracking noises
Picking my blue LWB S350 on 7/8/24. 48,450 miles.2014 model. It’s my dream car. Thanks for the review Matt!
How the hell Matt.. "BLAKEY"...
Your parents must of had the best VHS video collection on earth..😅
Love that Benz 👌
Haha yes definitely
Best interior that mercedes has ever made
I recently bought the post facelift W222, because in my opinion, it’s a design for the ages.
Can’t be beat.
In the US, all the S-Classes are LWB. So from my perspective, the SWB looks odd. For us, the LWB is the “real” S-Class, as it’s the only one we have
A massive, massive leap forward looks and quality wise over the previous W220 and W221 models.
220 yes, 221 no
@@Drop_a_gear_and_disappear True, actually the W221 is a better quality than W222
As a new car, I agree you want soft-close everything, heated everything, cooled everything, double-glazing, sunroof, etc. As a used car, maybe you're okay with fewer things to go wrong, and don't see the lack of options as a deal breaker, especially if you've been looking for a blue car with beige interior, rather than the plentiful monotone with black or grey interior.
Personally, I'd be glad not to be faced with the prospect of fixing a soft-close door or boot lid. In the UK, I don't think you need cooled seats, and people of a certain age would be afraid to put the seat cooling on. As it's a short wheelbase/non-chauffer car, the absence of heated rear seats can also likely be readily forgiven.
The absence of a sunroof is down to personal preference, although I think most people in the UK would want it. Maybe the first owner was very tall and needed the extra headroom. On the other hand, the absence of double-glazing on a car like this seems like as significant oversight. And the absence of a heated steering wheel is almost as annoying.
If not for the colour scheme, I'd be inclined to think it was spec'd by a leasing company.
can’t say I agree. Vast majority of the stuff you’ve listed doesn’t actually go wrong much, and if it does it doesn’t cost the world to fix. It’s the suspension, engine and lights and glass that will cost you the pounds! All of which is on every version of S class (minus the double glazed windows). If you’re gonna go luxury, load it up. If you’re gonna get a low spec S class you’d be better off going for a high spec E class.
It's just soooooo much better looking than the current one. Inside and out.
They are beautiful.
I own a 2015, facelift W212, E Class Estate in Hyacinth Red and it’s my retirement car.
Every time I drive to one of my friends houses, they always comment how beautiful it is.
I met up with one yesterday to go for coffee and, again, he said how luxurious it is.
I’m just about to carry out a B5 service. The parts, from Mercedes, cost me under £150.
That’s a great cost for the motoring that it offers. ❤️
I just bought a 2015 S63 AMG w/ down pipes and Stage 2 Tune and I am in LOVE ❤
An excellent honest and accurate review Matt. There is no better luxury saloon for the money out there.
I worked with a guy in the late 90s, who bought an old S class Mercedes diesel with circa 80 K miles on and used it for his company car for the next 10 years. He rocked up another 300K miles on this car and still managed to sell it for a few Bob afterwards, it didn’t cost a fortune to Service because he used an independent specialist as you recommend. Fantastic cars. great review Matt 👍
I’ve got a lovely well specced W212 which I love, but would like to get an S Class! One day…
Find a decent specialist and stick with them - spot on, this is why I'd buy a car with you without hesitation
The best looking Mercedes ever. Spot on!
The W222 is indeed the best S-Class ever. I remember seeing it debut back in March 2013 in the rain at the A380 hanger.
If you visit the MB World forum, you'd see that owners are not happy with the new S-Class.
I wish we got the small wheel base model, it will be the perfect S-Class since I don't need to chauffeur anyone.
The best looking s-class is w140. I'm 37 years and love Mercedes from that era.
Amazing piece of engineering. I wouldnt drive anything else. Every journey is an adventure, even just popping to Harrods feels good.
The interior looks so much better than the newer one. Hate the big screen of the current generation.
Awww lovely review Mat! I'm not a Merc fan but the S Class is something special - thanks for your hard work
Thanks for a "refreshing" review. I tested a 2014 Range Rover Vogue and a 2016 S-Class like the one in the video and ride quality understood as comfort is absolutely, totally and completely different. I'm looking for the smoothest ride possible and Range Rover doesn't feel very composed when riding over bumps and in fact it's not much better than SUVs with conventional suspension Perhaps longer wheel travel helps it but then in the S-Class it's a mind-blowing experience. I've driven a BMW 7-Series from around 2018, an Audi A8 from 2015, GLE from 2019, Q7 with air suspension from 2017 I believe and some other cars with conventional suspension and the S-Class is out of their league. I've never owned any Mercedes so it's not ego talking, I am just so impressed. However, comparison the a Range Rover in the video doesn't sound like reality to me at all after today's experience. That Range was on 20" rims by the way, so not overly huge - I guess they're standard. Also, interior quality of a Range Rover is no match to the one in an S-Class, especilly considering hard seats of a Range Rover from before a facelift in 2018 or somewhere there.
Long time S Class driver on 3rd gen. Now W222 S500 4M and V221 S65. Family hauler SQ7 Diesel. I agree with all the aforementioned points! The RR is overrated and a bit bumpy. I tested an L405 525HP on Friday as I wanted to swap my SQ7 for it. But honestly, being used to 4WD steering and active suspension like on the Audi I could not help and force myself to love the RR to bits, because it was a huge letdown. On the Autobahn the S Classes are leaps and bounds ahead and even the SQ7 is a more competent mile muncher at speeds like 150-170 kph. Did some dB(a) testing as well and the Audi came out quieter than the RR Autobiography, at Speed (130kph, 160kph) The S class remains the gold standard (though I have not driven the new Range L460, yet - I don’t spend 200k ish on a car, that’s a silly thing to do)
The SQ7 is not a beautiful car on the outside. Mine is equipped with the fully upholstered dash, doors and double glazing, no panoramic roof. It’s a very nice cabin and second to none being compared with the Range Rover L405. I wanted to sell the Audi because I always liked the Range’s appearance but after all looks ain’t everything and as a family of five the Audi will serve us better. Before my test drive I was a 100 percent sure that I’ll put the trigger on the Range as I was planning to get one ever since the L405 has been released. Ah and awful Infotainment system in the facelifted L405. Very counterintuitive. Worst thing: no HUD available 😢
As someone who owns one it’s definitely worth it, everyone who’s been in it is in love with it, I am slightly scared of it and its faultless MB service history but I knew what I was getting in to
A proper car. Designed for miles of comfort.
…the mental age of Sir Richard Attenborough, ha-ha-ha! Very good, Matt! Sometimes your one-liner comments are worth just as much as your excellent car presentations.
I would love a black Cherokee 4.0 Limited! The styling just reminds me of good times in the 90s like watching The Goonies on VHS with my mates and thinking what a cool motor it was.
I used to have one. One of the last ones made, 98 I think. Was such a great vehicle
This era of 2014 Merc s class are now Timeless but looks very beautiful and also very comfortable I personally would own one fantastic content matt keep up the contents
I ran the 5th generation S Class LWB for 13 years from new. Serviced it regularly and always enjoyed the armchair ride on my 50km per day commute. No horrific costs until the end. Depreciation was effectively 100% in the end. Our annual road tax on the smallest engine version was €1,500 or £1,280 which on a 13 year old is bank-breaking. No longer commute any distance, so I can now keep my sofa at home.
I have the American long wheel base gas model S550. 7 years of ownership and so far at 50K miles replaced brakes all around rotors pads and sensors was $1600 for parts and $400 for labor. I had to replace one wheel that had been repaired before I bought the car and MB wanted $1800 plus the old wheel. I was able to get a new one direct from the original manufacturer for under $300. My gas model gets me 23 mpg on the freeway.
I loveee my s class. Threw some maybach rims on it and the best looking thing on the roaf in my opinion
Amazing On the Buses reference. I’m 34 but can thank my dad!
Excellent review of an excellent car. Applause for always mentioning the vital importance of regularly servicing the gearbox/transmission. I learnt that the hard way.
That styling is best described as “Timeless”. That car will still look elegant and classy in another 10 years.
God dam it I have been looking at this and wanted to come and view it on the weekend now your going to have loads of interest
Another really excellent review presented in a relaxed chatty humorous and informative way
I own a 2019 S560 and it has been amazing. Had previous w221 and it was a nightmare. Mercedes are amazing to own. Like any vehicle maintaining them will preserve them. Great video. I really enjoy your reviews. Thanks so much, Cheers.
Very nice!
Great review as always but you're wrong about the LWB model, the car was designed as an LWB model and looks better in that guise in my opinion.
Plus , if buying used, most LWB models have the executive seating pack with electric reclining, heated and cooled rear seats, and a twin moon sun roof, a 4k option.
I'm looking for a new car as my panamera turbo is killing me on fuel so I'm going for barge next, I thought 7 series G11 was the route until I looked at S Class prices, I'm hooked.
Absolutely LOVE my w221 m278 (non 4 matic) panoramic roof LOADED bi-turbo s550!!!!
It was one of these or a Jaguar XJ Portfolio last summer. The XJ won my heart as the Mercedes S Class looked like a bloated version of my wee C Class and the Jag is a future classic, since they went crazy and stopped production of their big beautiful saloon!
We had a 2015 S350d Lang as a taxi from new->490,000km/304k miles and it was super reliable. Had every single option other than the burmester 3D. Awesome car and realible.
Best car review and presenter known to man. Comprehensive, informative and pleasant. Thanks mate.
Really enjoyed this video. I always buy a S class and have never been disappointed. All S class’ sold in US are the long version and are usually fully loaded. My first S class was a 2014, then 2017 and now a 2022. I absolutely love the S class and would not own another car. I also have bought Range Rovers and have loved each of them except for the 2024 Autobiography that I owned for three months and traded for a “24 Macan. For the first time I absolutely hated my last Range Rover. Very unfortunate because I have always been so loyal to the brand. Amazing how one bad apple can totally turn one off to a car manufacturer.
A bonus for me would be a CD player, I love my 2011 C class, which I've had 4 years, sadly just had a 12 month min medical ban for epileptic absent seizures, questionable whether will drive again, but hanging on to it whilst hope, 3rd Mercedes, lovely cars to own, the odd big bill but is a teenager this year and gets well taken care of by specialist.
As someone who owns a 2010 Citroen C4 Picasso 😭i can only say ..... I'm so jealous that's a cracking car 👍
Opted for the XJ over these but I do really like them. Beautiful cars
"I'm secretly quite an old soul". No Matt - we've all known that for years!
Haha I don’t hide it well
I drive a company car and have no intention of buying a car in the near future but I’m a big fan Matt. A fellow old soul and car enthusiast. Loved the vid. You’re a guy I’d buy a pint for in a pub on a rainy afternoon!
Thanks! Very kind
I bought a 2016 LWB S550 two months ago. 54,000 miles, $35,000. The original sticker was in the car. $120,400. I stole it 😂. It's been flawless 👍.
I also have a 2016 740i and 2014 V8 Range Rover Sport. I like all 3 equally.
I definitely have that rainy day fund. I keep at least $5,000 in the account.
Remember cruising on the autobahn in my cousin’s S class. Fantastic cars. 👋 Simon
The last time I was in an S class was when I booked a limo to LHR. We were travelling up the east coast of the US, so both had large suitcases. After many attempts, the driver confessed only one would fit. We had to have the other squeezed in the back with us. I was surprised.
The best looking S Class ever. Period
Always like your review videos (as well as the others)... I remember the first video i watched when discovering your channel was you reviewing an old Volvo V70 you'd bought for 500 quid or so... Been watching since, watched the back catalogue before, and honestly haven't looked back... Brilliant work mate!
Watched On The Buses other day. At the in-laws at an old fogie home. Great stuff. Still a good watch
100% best looking S class Matt.
The S class has always been the best in class and hopefully always will be, no Range Rover has ever come close.
Thanks for the review I have been eyeing the W222 as an upgrade to my W212 e350. I really want the night vision option so bad for country roads and avoiding kangaroos.
I had exactly that "unit stocking" thing with my recent Octavia purchase. Dealer explained it. Good to go.
Beautiful inside and out. Especially the beige interior. The interior design is exquisite!
The facelift of. This model its for me the most beautifull Mercedes ever made,this and the S coupe
My 2013 221 long wheelbase 350CDI has a standard 90 litre fuel tank. I looked at LOTS of cars before buying my lovely high spec/right colour combination car.
Use them regularly and every time you fill up I use Millers Diesel Additive and have never had any DPF or EGR problems in thirteen years in my last two OM642 engined cars.
Unfortunately we can't get 4matic S Class cars in the UK.
Awesome car, love the design both exterior and especially interior. The kind of car you can soak up miles and not feel it.
Hi mate,
Thanks for the video. Tbh, you shared my feelings. I love W222 but it's nearly impossible to find a fully spec'd example. I don't buy a W222 without massage seats, 4 matic, panoramic double sunroof, cooling seat, lane departure, self-parking, adaptive cruise, reclining rear seats, double glazed windows and Magic Body Control.
You're definitely right about common diesel issues fixing costs. DPF, adBlue level sensor, Nox sensors, temperature sensors, catalytic converter, egr valve and etc.
And I could see headlight condensation on this car which is very common on W222 :(
I suggest facelifted 2017 onwards W222 S400dL straight 6 cylinder new tech engine for diesel lovers.
Content is on point as usual, production is really excellent on this review. A quality piece of media, well done to you and your team, a pleasure to watch.
I've had a 1980 280SL, a 2005 SL500 5 litre V8, an E Class saloon and now an E Class convertible. Next time I change, it'll be for an S Class.
I always liked the s-class…and this is nice but still my all time favourite is the w140! It was way ahead of the competition!!
What a beauty.Brilliant camera work.
The older Mercedes are just the best 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Great video Matt. Lovely barge to float around in. You certainly had your wits on today. Many good laughs, and cheers.
The key risk when buying a car like this is that dealer labour and parts charges are those for a very expensive car, when new. Works best if most tasks can be handled DIY but there remains a risk if something big, complex or elusive goes wrong.
The presentation and effort put into the reviews is superb, great vid
The comments about this S-Class car also applies to a C Class Saloon (petrol) in my opinion:
1) They are so quiet, you can't hear the engine (the petrol engine is very quiet anyway) or any noise from outside the car.
2) The soft comfortable nature of the car is lovely (S model - not Sport or AMG)
3) you are in a bubble in your own little world.
4) The driving cost is great, but then any savings are lost when it requires repair bills (£5000+ in the last 12 months spent)
5) I always put premium fuel in every time.
Quality at its best Mercedes S Class
Awesome car 🎉
Someone bumped my car so rather than a courtesy car, I got his insurer to pay for a chauffeur driven S Class to the airport and back.
It is the finest car I’ve driven in.
The Volvo V90 Cross Country that was in for repair is actually more comfortable than any other chauffeured car that I’d been in such as E Class or A8. Can’t imagine how good the latest shape S Class is ❤
Great video Matt. This was the car I was waiting for! Looking to get one soon
Greetings here: W220 S65 AMG (2004). Best or nothing \,,/. Worlds fastest sedan back in the day.
You provided good points, however I will stick with my Toyota Vitz for the foreseeable future
Always considered it is slightly big for me/my family. But definitely one of the best machine in the market.
Not a fan of the outside styling but love the interior. Diesels are fine as long as you don’t just run it around town but do a good run at highway speeds every now and then. Mercedes had the most recalls of any other brand which amazed me. Interesting video, good to see how the other half live.
Years ago, before retirement, I had, second hand, a W126 500SEL (OK) and later a W140 600SEL (truly stupendous - cost £4k, another £6k to get it right: a tank). Took the W140 to 150k - the most solid, comfortable car I have ever had. Even better than my current 2009 Range Rover 5-litre Autobiography.
I could be tempted by a petrol LWB S-Class.
Very nice!
I owned some of the w126 models as well as a w220 and a w222. As long as the w126s hadn't been neglected they were fine cars with rock solid everything including reliability. My w220 was an unreliable, financial nightmare. It never actually broke down on me and when it was going it drove beautifully (helped by its ABC suspension- a fortune to fix) but I was always waiting for the next huge repair bill which was guaranteed to come along and it did!
The build on the w220 wasn't as bad as I read but things like closing the glovebox or sunroof were embarrassing.
My w222 was an S500e PHEV which I only had for a month before it was stolen which oddly enough proved to be a massive relief.
I had to fit a new pipe for the a/c but it exploded the day after it had been repaired due to excess pressure from somewhere?
The Magic Vision windshield cleaning system also gave up the ghost leaving me with a magically big repair bill.
The car also started telling me that it didn't recognise its own key so I had to remove the start/stop button and insert the key instead.
The whole experience put me off MB cars and I replaced it with a VW Arteon which has been superb and the amount of rear legroom for the family is the same as a lwb S-class so we're all happy :)
I always fancied the w140 but I viewed it as way too wide for London roads, of course now we have all of these US style pick ups, SUVs and 4x4s so it doesn't seem so bad now. I expect your 600SEL was the original full fat 408 bhp one ?
@@mercmush Well, we're all hoping that the big bill won't arrive🙂
Yes it was the full fat, orange indicator lights one. Once warm I used to rev it out to 6,500 revs, no problems and a great sound.
DPF & EGR deletes should be standard on all modern diesel purchases. Deleted my EGR and instantly got another 10mpg now it's not eating soot through the inlet!
I ‘ate you Butler!
Fab review Mat 👍