Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Our scoring places the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class at 7.2/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 9.3/10, while Value at 5.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.4/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. The 8.5/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance at 6.9/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. The cabin tech earns 9.3/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $114,314–$139,664, 23 MPG, seating 5, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sits in the luxury tier of the sedan market. The value score of 5.6/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a passable sedan but not a standout one. Weaknesses in performance and reliability and value hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class ranks #896 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 32% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $114,314 starting price is about 313% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scores 7.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.2 — and starts roughly $10,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?
We rate the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class's reliability 6.4/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class worth buying?
It scores 7.2/10 overall, ranking #896 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 32% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class cost?
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class starts at $114,314 and ranges up to $139,664 across trims (MSRP when new). At 23 MPG, expect roughly $2,283/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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More Mercedes-Benz Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mercedes-Benz models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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