46 Years in the Making: The 2027 S-Class Is MotorTrend’s Car of the Year

November 12th, 2026 by

Key Takeaways:

  • Historical Milestone: MotorTrend named the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class its Car of the Year, the S-Class’s first MotorTrend win since 1981.
  • Extensive Engineering Evolution: Mercedes-Benz developed or re-engineered approximately 2,700 components, introducing an upgraded twin-turbo V8 engine, a plug-in hybrid with an estimated 45 miles of electric range, and standard 4MATIC® all-wheel drive.
  • Composure for Central New Jersey: Standard rear-wheel steering and air suspension make congested Middlesex County roads, tight parking spots, and high-speed lane changes on the New Jersey Turnpike feel effortless.
  • Refreshed Design and Technology: A refined exterior with an illuminated, 20% larger front grille, plus updated driver-assistance technology.

MotorTrend has named the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class its 2027 Car of the Year, the S-Class’s first MotorTrend win in 46 years, since the 1981 300SD took Import Car of the Year. The flagship sedan earned the honor over a field of 22 contenders. For drivers in Central New Jersey, the award confirms what a rainy morning on the Garden State Parkway or a slow evening crawl down Route 1 already makes clear: true luxury is not defined simply by upscale materials, but by a sense of ease, silence, and composure behind the wheel. At Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison, we understand the standards our clients expect from a luxury vehicle. Whether you are seeking a new executive sedan for corporate travel or a high-end personal vehicle, our team is ready to welcome you in and show you what makes this sedan so special.

Why Did MotorTrend Name the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Car of the Year?2027 S-Class Mercedes-Benz

MotorTrend selected the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class as its Car of the Year after evaluating it against six core criteria: engineering excellence, advancement in design, safety, efficiency, value, and performance of intended function.

Contenders were evaluated through instrumented testing and extensive real-world driving. What sets the S-Class apart is how approximately 2,700 new and updated components work together to create a remarkably quiet, composed cabin that isolates occupants from road vibration and traffic noise. While many sedans focus heavily on digital screens, the 2027 S-Class reminds drivers what a premier luxury sedan is truly capable of: quiet acoustics, smooth acceleration, and an effortless driving dynamic that makes long highway trips feel shorter.

How Does the Redesigned 2027 S-Class Powertrain Lineup Perform?

Every 2027 S-Class sedan pairs electrified power with standard 4MATIC® all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission designed to make daily driving truly enjoyable.

Whether your priority is confident passing power on Interstate 287 or quiet efficiency on longer commutes, each powertrain delivers effortless comfort tailored to modern luxury:

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S 500 4MATIC® Sedan

Serving as a refined entry into the flagship range, the S 500 4MATIC® features an updated 3.0-liter turbocharged mild-hybrid inline-six engine producing approximately 442 horsepower. This configuration provides seamless acceleration and immediate throttle response, making daily merging onto the Parkway smooth and quiet.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S 580 4MATIC® Sedan

For drivers seeking effortless V8 power, the S 580 4MATIC® features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged mild-hybrid V8 engine producing approximately 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. It sits remarkably quiet at a stoplight, then delivers smooth, immediate power the moment you press the accelerator. Drivers who want even more performance can also explore our Mercedes-AMG® lineup.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S 580e 4MATIC® Plug-In Hybrid

Bridging executive luxury and sustainable mobility, the S 580e 4MATIC® combines an inline-six engine with an advanced electric motor to generate a combined output of approximately 576 horsepower. It provides an estimated 45 miles of all-electric driving range, so many drivers can complete local errands in nearly silent electric mode before the engine engages. The S 580e is expected to join the lineup soon; contact our team for the latest availability, and see our EV charging resources to plan home and public charging.

Ready to feel the difference for yourself?Schedule a test drive of the 2027 S-Class at Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison.

What Design Refinements Define the 2027 S-Class Exterior and Interior?

The 2027 S-Class exterior introduces an authoritative look centered around an illuminated front grille that is 20% larger than before, complemented by distinctive star-shaped daytime running lights.

Inside, the cabin serves as an executive sanctuary featuring:

  • Multicontour Executive Seating: Available sculpted seating with active ventilation, heating, and customizable massage programs.
  • Acoustic Glass and Isolation: Acoustic glass and advanced insulation that mute wind and tire noise, preserving cabin quietness even when heavy commercial vehicles pass on the New Jersey Turnpike.
  • Next-Generation MBUX Architecture: The new MB.OS platform and fourth-generation MBUX, with the standard MBUX Superscreen, natural voice control, and an available augmented reality head-up display that projects navigation guidance into your line of sight.
  • Ambient Illumination: An expansive ambient lighting network with customizable color themes that set the mood for every drive.

How Does the 2027 S-Class Transform Daily Driving Across Central New Jersey?

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class transforms Central New Jersey driving by pairing standard rear-wheel steering with AIRMATIC® air suspension that smooths out road imperfections.

Commuting along Route 1 through Middlesex County often comes with congested traffic, sudden stops, and rough pavement. The engineering of the 2027 S-Class eases these everyday stresses through sophisticated driving dynamics:

  • Standard Rear-Wheel Steering: By turning the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees, the system noticeably tightens the turning circle, helping the sedan navigate crowded Edison parking lots and tight garage ramps with confidence, while adding stability during high-speed lane changes. An available 10-degree system offers maximum low-speed maneuverability.
  • Predictive Suspension Technology: When equipped with available E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, the suspension can scan the road ahead and adjust individual dampers to soften potholes and bridge expansion joints before you feel them.
  • Intelligent Driver Assistance: Advanced adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance help reduce fatigue in stop-and-go traffic on the Parkway.

Related Reading: Mercedes-Benz Performance Features for Winter Driving

Financing, Leasing, and Selection at Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison

Selecting your ideal 2027 S-Class begins with exploring our inventory of new vehicles at Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison, where our team is available to walk you through current lease specials and financing options that fit your needs. Final pricing, package configurations, and performance figures vary depending on trim selections, options, and availability.

For clients exploring different ownership and leasing options, our dealership maintains an expansive showroom featuring new vehicles, high-performance Mercedes-AMG® models, and an array of Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz sedans. When you visit our showroom, you can explore:

  • Leasing Options: Flexible lease terms for private owners and businesses seeking executive vehicles.
  • Special Financing Solutions: Competitive purchasing programs designed around your goals.
  • Pre-Owned and Certified Pre-Owned Options: Meticulously maintained luxury vehicles backed by rigorous inspection standards, offering peace of mind and value.

Related Reading: Should You Return, Buy Out, or Trade In Your Mercedes-Benz Lease?

Why Choose Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison for Your Next S-Class?

Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison delivers a luxury purchasing journey defined by a customer-first philosophy, personal attention, and lasting community commitment.

When you choose Mercedes-Benz of Edison, your automotive experience is shaped by key aspects that set our dealership apart:

  • A Dedicated Sales Professional: From the moment you walk into our showroom, one dedicated sales professional guides you from start to finish, for a seamless, transparent, and stress-free buying experience.
  • The Strength of an Industry Leader: The Ray Catena Auto Group represents one of the largest privately owned auto groups in the country and is a leader among luxury car dealers, offering access to a wide selection of vehicles and trusted care from highly trained specialists.
  • Community and Charitable Foundations: Our commitment extends far beyond the showroom floor. Ray Catena Auto Group actively supports local community initiatives and charitable foundations across Central New Jersey and surrounding neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

What makes the 2027 S-Class award historic for Mercedes-Benz?

The award is the S-Class’s first MotorTrend win in 46 years. The last came in 1981, when the 300SD was named Import Car of the Year. The 2027 S-Class earned the top honor over 22 contenders across six evaluation criteria.

Is 4MATIC® all-wheel drive standard on the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Yes, 4MATIC® all-wheel drive is standard on every 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan in the United States, providing confident year-round traction through unpredictable New Jersey winters.

How does rear-wheel steering assist in tight suburban parking?

At low speeds, rear-wheel steering turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels, tightening the sedan’s turning circle. The available 10-degree system reduces it by up to nearly 6.6 feet, making parallel parking and tight driveways feel more like maneuvering a smaller car.

Can the 2027 S 580e drive on electric power alone during short trips?

Yes, the S 580e plug-in hybrid delivers an estimated 45 miles of all-electric driving range before transitioning to its turbocharged inline-six gasoline engine.

Can I lease the 2027 S-Class for business use?

Yes. Our team works with business owners and executives on purchase and lease options for business use. Contact our team to discuss the right arrangement for your company.

Experience the 2027 Car of the Year in Edison

The best way to understand why the S-Class earned MotorTrend’s top honor is to sit behind the wheel. Visit Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison at 910 U.S. 1 North in Edison, call our sales team at 732-549-6600, or schedule your test drive online today.

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