The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology for the brand with the three-pointed star at the time of its release. Replacing the W221, it introduced major innovations such as the predictive Magic Body Control suspension, 100% LED lighting (without a single incandescent bulb), and a dual 12.3-inch screen interface. The facelift (Phase 2) introduced in mid-2017 brought a complete overhaul of the engine range, marking the return of inline 6-cylinder engines (OM656 in diesel, M256 in petrol) to replace the V6s, offering a leap forward in drivability and reliability. The W222 is widely considered one of the most accomplished and reliable S-Classes of the modern era, although its technological content requires rigorous and costly maintenance.
The Mercedes S-Class W222 is an engineering masterpiece that redefined the standards of its category. If you are looking for a diesel engine, the optimal choice is undoubtedly a facelifted version (post-2017) equipped with the OM656 inline 6-cylinder (S 350 d or S 400 d). This engine combines top-flight reliability with exceptional drivability. The pre-2017 V6 diesel versions (OM642) remain good cruisers but require a contingency budget for the notorious oil cooler. Avoid the S 300 h (OM651), whose mechanical reliability and lack of refinement clash with the badge. In petrol, also favor post-2017 models (M256 or M176) to avoid the cylinder issues of the M278 V8. The purchase must imperatively be accompanied by a crystal-clear maintenance history within the Mercedes-Benz network.
| Oil change | £140 – 240 |
| Timing chain | £1 600 – 3 200 (si nécessaire, non préventif) |
| Complete brakes | £650 – 1 200 |
| Estimated annual budget | £900 – 2 000 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.