Video | Mercedes S-Class first drive: innovation or overkill?

Large, luxe and packed with gadgets, these are the qualities we’ve all come to expect from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class as the pinnacle of executive travel. So, what has this latest model got up its sleeve? In this video Rory Reid gets up close and personal with the 2026 S-Class to find out.

Rory had already had a first look at the new S-Class in a studio, but now he is experiencing the car in the wild. After an initial introduction to the fresh looks and sumptuous, screen-filled interior, Rory finds out more about the car’s origin story – stay tuned if you want to see Rory drive a Benz Patent-Motorwagen from the late 1800s.

Back in the present, though, and it’s time to take the S-Class out on the road. Is this luxurious saloon as comfortable on the go as it is parked up? Unsurprisingly, the answer is a resounding yes, but you’ll have to watch the video to find out more about the tech and unique features making the S-Class so cossetting.

Yet is it possible Mercedes has gone too far with some of its gizmos? Do you really need a separate mobile phone-style controller for each of the rear infotainment screens? Plus, is a heated seatbelt a genius move or overkill? Rory will explain all.

What do you think of the new S-Class? Let Rory know your thoughts in the YouTube comments. If you enjoyed this video give it a like and subscribe to the channel for more like it.