A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class

If you’re looking for a vehicle that delivers top-of-the-line features, comfort, performance and safety, all while showing off the prestige of the driver, the 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class is your choice.

Key Features

With Active Body Control and a noise-canceling cabin, the S-Class sedan delivers an exceptional riding experience. With agile handling and an enormous amount of standard features, even the base models afford plenty of performance and comfort. Add in the Splitview dual-screen interface that allows both the driver and the passenger to view two different things at the same time, and you have a win all the way around.

New for 2012

The 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class receives a few upgrades, including the S550 receiving a twin-turbocharged engine for improved fuel economy and power, and the introduction of the S350 BlueTEC also adds the option of choosing diesel to the S-Class lineup.

What We Like

Besides the unmistakable elegance, the leg, head and hip room create an unbelievably comfortable ride. Throw in rear-seat audio and climate controls, a DVD entertainment system and elegant leather upholstery, and it’s easy to see why the European tradition is so thoroughly enjoyed by all who experience it.

What Concerns Us

There is little to be concerned about with the 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class. However, if a conservative ride isn’t your style, you may want to consider a more exotic option.

Available Models

There are seven models available for the 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class:

S350

  • 3.0-Liter Diesel V6
  • Horsepower: 240 @ 3,600 rpm
  • Torque: 455 @ 1,600-2,400 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 21/31 mpg

S400

  • 3.5-Liter V6 Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 295 @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 284 @ 2,400-5,000 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 19/25 mpg

S550 AWD and S550 RWD

  • 4.6-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V8
  • Horsepower: 429 @ 5,250 rpm
  • Torque: 516 @ 1,800-3,500 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 15/24 mpg (AWD), 15/25 mpg (RWD)

S600

  • 5.5-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V12
  • Horsepower: 510 @ 5,000 rpm
  • Torque: 612 @ 1,800-3,500 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 12/19 mpg

S63

  • 5.5-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V8
  • Horsepower: 536 @ 5,500 rpm
  • Torque: 590 @ 2,000-4,500 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 15/23 mpg

S65

  • 6.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V12
  • Horsepower: 621 @ 4,800 rpm
  • Torque: 738 @ 2,000-4,000 rpm
  • City/Highway Fuel Economy: 12/19 mpg

Major Recalls

The only major recall issued for the 2012 Mercedes Benz S-Class is for those with a diesel fuel filter. The filter may leak around the area near the heating component, which could cause diesel to spill onto the roadways.

Common Issues

The only available complaint about the S-Class is in regards to the car not automatically going into the Park position when the engine is shut off, but rather staying in Neutral.

Mercedes Benz S-Class 2012 Interior


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25 years of experience
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18 years of experience
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Caz was extremely knowledgeable, personable and provided excellent service. He was on time for the appointment and answered and explained everything I asked concerning my vehicle. I will definitely use the company again and I would love to have Caz as my mechanic! Excellent!
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