2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid

After a three-year hiatus, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid returns to the USA for 2023; it's an all-new car and is available in a single trim called the S580e. The 2023 S-Class Hybrid can be seen as the bridge between the combustion-powered S-Class and the electric EQS, a midway mark for EV fans with range anxiety who want a gas engine as a backup. It's a superb hybrid, but it gets fierce competition from the latest BMW 7 Series Hybrid - at least in looks and in-cabin tech because the S-Class Hybrid is quite a bit more powerful. With 510 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0L inline-six plug-in hybrid engine, the S580e is two-tenths quicker to 60 mph than its German rival. With a starting price upwards of $122k, it slots in between the gas six- and eight-cylinder models. But is a plug-in model still relevant in the luxury sedan segment, or will it serve as a forgotten in-betweener - no more than stand-in transitional tech on our way to full electrification?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid price starts at $122,550 for the base model, while the AMG Line will cost $126,850. This is the MSRP for the Merc S-Class Hybrid and excludes the $1,150 destination charge.

For comparison, the BMW 7 Series Hybrid - on sale as a 2024 model - is a far sight cheaper, starting at $107k.

The powertrain in the new S-Class Hybrid is potent and allows rapid acceleration from a standstill. Combined with a chassis setup that favors comfort, the Merc S-Class PHEV is an ideal highway cruiser that can overtake and merge without batting an eye. It takes road scars and smaller bumps in its stride, although occupants will likely feel larger jostles and potholes. While a quick test drive review of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid will praise its comfortable, sublime ride, the brake feel is noted as being rather inconsistent. As expected of a hefty vehicle like this, it's also not ideal when hustled through corners at speed. Treat it with respect, though, and you'll be able to fully relax on any journey.

The regular S-Class is considered by many to be the gold standard in the segment, so expectations are high for the plug-in hybrid version. And, if you measure the 2023 S-Class Hybrid according to these expectations, it does an admirable job: it's opulent inside, it comes with the latest tech (and there's even more on offer if you peruse the options list), it has a powerful engine with 510 horses that gets it up to speed in no time, and it feeds into the executive cruiser feeling with a comfortable drive. Some may feel it's too demure in terms of looks, but that's part of its charm. It's an ideal step forward for those who don't want to jump straight into electrification as it comes with good gas mileage figures and an impressive 46 miles of range without even using the gas engine. Of course, it's not cheap - but you weren't expecting it to be, were you?

There's technically just one model available in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid sedan range, but you can choose to outfit it as an AMG Line model with a starting price of $126,850. This will add AMG body styling and AMG-specific wheels, as well as some interior detailing around the cabin. Most will be happy with the basic Luxury Line, which is $4,300 cheaper - but we'd add the Warmth & Comfort Package for heated and ventilated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, as well as the 3D Technology Package for the augmented reality head-up display, 12.3-inch 3D instrument cluster, and facial recognition. Total costs will come in just over $130k, destination included.