The Mercedes-Benz S-Class underwent a complete redesign for 2021 and should reach U.S. dealerships by spring. As usual, the S-Class is packed with the top-of-the-line technology we’ve come to expect from a Benz. However, MotorTrend’s staff wasn’t thrilled by the inflated sticker price.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a suggested retail price of $94,250. The redesigned S-Class retails at over $110,000 for the base trim. What was added to the S-Class to make it even more expensive than before?

New technology was added

Not to be outdone by Tesla, the giant MBUX center touchscreen’s size has increased by half an inch for 2021. There’s also a large digital gauge cluster behind the wheel. Backseat drivers can even control climate and audio settings from a small display on the center armrest. Two large infotainment screens are also standard on the front seatbacks on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Executive Line.

The optional head-up display can also project 3D buttons of each available setting as well as 2D images. All displays can be controlled with voice recognition, which is now programmed to understand almost 30 different languages. The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class even has a virtual assistant similar to Siri and Alexa.

The interior is more comfortable than ever with advanced massaging options, four-zone climate control, and power adjustability for each seat. A 4D surround-sound system is also standard, equipped with customizable sound settings for each passenger.

If you’re concerned about privacy, the touchscreens have a setting to allow for fingerprint authorization. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is also equipped with some new useful safety features. A surround-view camera system comes standard, which also utilizes Benz’s new 3D technology. 

Drivers can also use smart home integration to lock their doors and turn on other functions from inside their houses. The Drive Pilot autonomous cruise control has also been optimized for this year. Car and Driver says that it drives well and does a great job recognizing objects on the road and pavement markings.

Engine options for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The standard Mercedes-Benz S-Class S450 trim has been renamed to the S500, probably to reflect its new standard power boost. The turbocharged V6 engine now makes 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. It has a mild-hybrid system for better gas mileage, standard AWD, and an accompanying nine-speed automatic transmission.

The S580 is equipped with a turbo V8 that makes 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are powered by EQ boost, which provides each engine with 21 extra hp each for short intervals. Four-wheel steering is also optional, which allows the wheels to turn ten degrees more than they can with standard steering.

The Mercedes-AMG models offered for 2020 haven’t been announced for this year, but it’s likely they’ll be announced later. Carbuzz speculates that these models will also be renamed for the new generation, S63 and S73. Both are also expected to have even bigger engines with as much as 800 hp. U.S. drivers might also get the S-Class 580e, a plug-in hybrid with 502 hp and 60 miles of electric range.

Pricing for each trim of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Your thriftiest 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class option costs $110,850 and the slightly classier Mercedes-AMG model retails for $115,150. The S580 models start at $117,350 and tap out at $132,550 for the decked-out Luxury Line. The S-Class Maybach model, which adds even more technology and drivetrain enhancements, retails for around $180,000.

Buying any Mercedes-Benz vehicle is a splurge, so we’re not really shocked by the price. While we’re not sure if the new tech justifies the huge price hike, it’s definitely impressive to see on any vehicle.