Mercedes-Benz W221 S-Class (2006–2013): Buyer’s Guide, All Models & Specs

Mercedes-Benz W221 S-Class

The Mercedes-Benz W221 S-Class is the fifth generation of the flagship S-Class sedan, produced for model years 2006 through 2013. If you’re researching a used W221, considering ownership, or simply want to understand what made this generation special, this guide covers everything — from the original launch models and the 2009 facelift, to all engine variants, production numbers, original MSRP pricing, and the key things to know before buying one today.

Development on the W221 began in 1999, a full seven years before the first model reached showrooms. The design team was led by three key figures: Jürgen Hubbert (head of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars), Peter Pfeiffer (chief designer), and Gorden Wagener, who would go on to become Mercedes’ chief design officer.

Design of the W221 S-Class

W221 Exterior

The W221’s exterior design built on the previous W220 generation but pushed further in every dimension. The wheelbase was extended compared to the W220, creating more interior space — though that extra size also added over 100 lb compared to equivalent W220 models.

The body design struck a careful balance between sleek aerodynamics and unmistakable road presence. Smooth, flowing exterior surfaces were interrupted by crisp body lines that gave the car a more muscular stance than the softer W220. Wheel arches were more pronounced, contributing to a noticeably wider appearance. Chrome trim around the windows, door handles, and mirrors reinforced the premium feel that S-Class buyers expected.

One detail worth noting for buyers: pre-facelift and post-facelift W221s are easy to tell apart by their tail lights. Early models (2006–2009) have two horizontal strips of body-colored paint breaking up the rear lights. Facelift models (2010–2013) replaced these with full-width red LED lights — a cleaner, more modern look that most owners prefer.

W221 Interior

The W221 interior represented a significant step up from the W220, and Mercedes was deliberate about it. Plastic surfaces that existed in the previous generation were replaced with wood veneer and brushed metal, giving the cabin a noticeably more premium feel throughout.

The most controversial design decision was the relocation of the gear selector. The traditional floor-mounted shifter was replaced by a column-mounted stalk on the right side of the steering wheel, freeing up the center console entirely. In its place, Mercedes installed the COMAND infotainment controller — a rotary dial and button cluster that remained the primary interface for navigation, audio, phone, and vehicle settings throughout the production run.

The COMAND system was considered advanced for 2006, though it shows its age today. The screen is small by modern standards and the interface is not intuitive for first-time users. For anyone buying a W221 in 2026, expect to spend some time learning the system — or budget for an aftermarket head unit if modern connectivity is a priority.

Seating quality is one of the W221’s strongest selling points. Front seats feature standard power adjustment, lumbar support, and heating; ventilation was an optional upgrade. The rear of the long-wheelbase variants is where the W221 truly earns its luxury credentials — generous legroom, reclining rear seats, and optional rear entertainment screens with headrest-mounted displays made LWB models a genuine chauffeur-class experience.

Standard Wheelbase vs. Long Wheelbase (SWB vs. LWB)

Most W221 models were available in two wheelbase configurations. This is one of the most important things to understand when shopping for a used W221, because it affects both pricing and the ownership experience significantly.

W221 Launch and Model Range

Mercedes first revealed the W221 to the press in June 2005, followed by a public debut at the September 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales began in early 2006 with four initial variants:

The launch was a commercial success. Mercedes reported over 70,000 units sold worldwide by October 2006, well ahead of projections. Additional variants — including the S420 CDI diesel, S450, S63 AMG, and S65 AMG — were announced for the 2007 model year.

Complete W221 Diesel Model List

Complete W221 Petrol/Gasoline Model List

Buying a W221 S-Class Used: What to Know

The W221 is now firmly in used-car territory, with the newest examples over a decade old. They represent exceptional value for money — the luxury and technology packed into these cars originally cost €70,000–230,000, and comparable examples can be found today for a small fraction of that. However, they require careful buying, as ownership costs can be significant.

Best Value Years to Buy

Best Models to Buy

Common Issues to Check Before Buying

• Airmatic Suspension — The W221’s air suspension system is a known maintenance item. Listen for compressor noise, check for uneven ride height, and ask when the air struts were last serviced or replaced. Budget for this if it hasn’t been done.
• ABC Hydraulic Suspension (AMG models) — (S63 AMG, S65 AMG): Active Body Control hydraulic suspension can be expensive to repair. Check for leaks and ensure the system operates smoothly in all modes.
• COMAND System — The screen can develop dead pixels or fail entirely over time. Budget for a replacement unit or aftermarket upgrade. Not a dealbreaker but worth factoring into the price.
• Sunroof Drains — Blocked sunroof drain channels can allow water to enter the cabin, damaging electronics and carpets. Check for any signs of water ingress — musty smell, damp carpets, or fogged interior lights.
• Electrical / Wiring — Some earlier W221 examples can develop wiring issues leading to intermittent electrical faults. A full diagnostic scan before purchase is strongly recommended.
• Coolant System (V8/V12) — V8 and V12 models can develop coolant leaks over time. Check coolant condition and look for white residue around hose connections during inspection.
• Service History — This is non-negotiable on a W221. A full Mercedes or qualified independent specialist service history dramatically reduces risk. Walk away from examples with patchy histories.

W221 Facelift in 2009

Mercedes announced the W221 facelift in early 2009, with updated models going on sale mid-2009 as 2010 model year vehicles. The changes were more than cosmetic:

• Grille: More pointed and assertive design, giving the facelift a slightly more aggressive front end than the pre-facelift’s rounder look.
• Headlights: LED daytime running lights were added, without redesigning the headlight units themselves.
• Tail lights: The most visible change. Pre-facelift lights had two body-colored horizontal dividers; facelift models replaced these with full-width red LED tail lights.
• Front bumper: Revised with a lower front spoiler, giving a sportier appearance.
• Rear bumper: Exhaust tips were integrated directly into the rear bumper rather than protruding beneath it.
• Dashboard: New wood and leather trim options, along with an updated COMAND system with improved navigation software.
• Seats: Additional front seat adjustment options; heated seats made standard on most variants; LWB models gained standard rear heated seats.

New Models Introduced at Facelift

The 2009 facelift also brought two notable new additions to the W221 lineup:

S250 CDI: The first 4-cylinder engine in S-Class history. At 2.1L with twin turbochargers, it was a significant downsizing from the previous smallest W221 engine (a 3.0L V6). Economy was meaningfully better — though it remains the least desirable W221 for most buyers purely on prestige grounds.

S400 Hybrid: The first ever hybrid S-Class. A 3.5L V6 paired with a lithium-ion battery pack. Official combined fuel economy was 29.8 MPG, compared to 23.2 MPG for the equivalent S350. Available in select markets only.

First Ever Mercedes S-Class Hybrid

An oddity in the S-Class line was the introduction of the first hybrid S-Class. This is the S400 Hybrid, which was available only in select markets. Beginning in late 2009, customers were able to purchase the S400 Hybrid, which had a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine paired with a lithium-ion battery to earn it the “hybrid” title. The S400 Hybrid engine was a slightly altered version of the S350 engine, and proved to be better on gas. Posted figures for the S400 Hybrid are 29.8 MPG combined, compared to 23.2 MPG combined on an S350 with the same engine.

The S63 AMG Engine Swap

One of the most debated decisions of the facelift era was replacing the S63 AMG’s acclaimed naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 with a smaller 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8. The reasoning was fuel efficiency — though S63 buyers were not exactly prioritizing economy.

In practice, the 5.5L biturbo proved more powerful than the 6.2L it replaced, and more fuel efficient. But the naturally aspirated 6.2L has retained a loyal following for its linear power delivery and mechanical simplicity relative to the forced-induction unit. Both are excellent engines; the 6.2L is simply more characterful.

Production Figures

Exact production records for the W221 have not been officially published by Mercedes-Benz, but available data suggests approximately 516,000 units were produced across the full run:

Production dipped sharply in 2009 — a combination of the global financial crisis and the mid-cycle model changeover to facelift specification. Numbers recovered in 2010 and held relatively steady through the end of production.

Original MSRP Prices (Factory New)

The following prices are sourced from the Mercedes-Benz Public Archive and represent the original European MSRP in euros at time of sale. Limited-production models (Guard, Pullman) are not listed. These prices are provided as historical reference — used market prices today are a small fraction of these figures.

Pre-Facelift MSRP Prices (2005–2009)

Post-Facelift MSRP Prices (2009–2012)

More W221 S-Class Content

Want to go deeper on a specific W221 variant? We have detailed specs and performance data for the key models:

• W221 S600 — Full engine specs, V12 performance data, and ownership notes
• W221 S63 AMG (2006–2010) — Complete specs for both the 6.2L and 5.5L AMG variants
• W221 S65 AMG (2006–2009) — Pre-facelift V12 AMG specs and performance data
• Should You Buy a W221 in 2026? — Our ownership pros, cons, and real-world verdict

Have a question about the W221, or do you own one? Leave a comment below — we read every one.