There’s a strong probability that the very first thing that jumps to thoughts while you say “Mercedes-Benz S-Class” is the BMW 7 Sequence, and vice versa. Because it’s arguably the 2 manufacturers’ most iconic rivalry, it makes good sense. The most recent installment within the rivalry comes by the use of the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It receives a mid-lifecycle refresh akin to what the BMW 7 Sequence will get later this yr. However forward of that reveal, let’s check out how the 2 limousines evaluate.
Exterior Design
Mercedes launched a bigger grille for the 2027 S-Class, and it’s apparent. The G70 7 Sequence’ bigger grille serves as a transparent affect; it’s apparent while you have a look at the 2 facet by facet. Mercedes does eschew the twin headlight look in favor of a extra conventional entrance finish design, which I believe lends itself to a sure classiness. From the facet, each seem imposing, though the 7 is a little more “monolithic.” The S-Class silhouette admittedly doesn’t change a lot from final yr. The flamboyant new 50 cross-spoke wheels will certainly assist give the S-Class an athletic edge over the 7er, too. Not less than, from exterior the automotive. The 7 Sequence can also be stretches a bit longer than the S-Class.
Round again, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will get fancy new taillights within the picture of the model’s three-pointed star. Little else adjustments — becoming for a refresh slightly than a full-fledged mannequin changeover. In comparison with the BMW 7 Sequence, the brand new S-Class seems to be tame, which isn’t solely uncommon when you think about every model’s ethos.
Inside Design
Inside, the largest information might be the addition of heated seatbelts. BMW doesn’t have a solution to that function, though I’m unsure what number of prospects it is going to single-handedly win over. Talking of massive, the screens are bigger, with the middle show measuring 14.4 inches and twin 12.3-inch screens on both facet. It’s fairly doable BMW will add one other display to the LCI BMW 7 Sequence coming later this yr. However for now, Merc is the display actual property king.
In fact, on this section, what’s occurring within the again is simply as vital as what the motive force sees. Fittingly, rear-seaters get larger screens in comparison with the outgoing mannequin, which dwarf the 7 Sequence’ screens. New remotes for local weather management and window shades permit much more easy adjustment. Minor enhancements although they might be, these adjustments nonetheless put the S-Class forward of the 7er by way of facilities. Not less than, for now.
Efficiency
Shockingly huge information on the efficiency entrance: the S-Class now comes with a flat-plane crank V8. The brand new powertrain additionally makes extra horsepower — 530, to be precise. The juiced energy plant nonetheless makes fewer ponies than the V8-powered 7 Sequence, although. Its 4.4-liter mill makes 536 horsepower. The six-cylinder motor makes extra torque than the outgoing mannequin, too. An overboost operate permits it to attain 472 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid S-Class additionally makes extra energy — a whopping 576 horsepower. Importantly, a V12 possibility can even be accessible, though technically offered as a Maybach. Nonetheless, it’s extra V12 than BMW will promote you. We anticipate the refreshed Mercedes S-Class to drive lots just like the outgoing one; maybe plusher than the 7, however in all probability no more enjoyable to drive. Granted, the usual rear-wheel steering ought to assist make the brand new S-Class a bit extra agile feeling.
Expertise
We sort of lined tech with the inside evaluate, however we’ll say it once more: the brand new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the king of screens within the full-size luxurious sedan section. Bigger screens in back and front construct on an already kind of overkill strategy within the display division. The most recent MBUX system integrates “a number of AI brokers” for enhanced usability and customization, however virtually, little adjustments. Count on voice instructions, augmented actuality navigation, and in-car gaming; all stuff you’ll discover within the present 7er.
Arguably, the S-Class makes its greatest strides within the powertrain division, which is a bit sudden. It will likely be very attention-grabbing to see the place BMW takes the 7 Sequence in just some brief months, after we’ll see an official debut. We’re arguably biased, however the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class feels prefer it’s taking part in a little bit little bit of catch-up with the 7er. Perhaps we’ll have a unique feeling after some seat time.
