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Mercedes S-Class vs VW Arteon comparison

Compare performance (635 HP vs 320 HP), boot space and price (104,000 £ vs 43,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes S-Class or VW Arteon?

Mercedes S-Class vs VW Arteon: Key differences

Mercedes S-Class

  • clearly more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • markedly quicker 0–100 km/h
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VW Arteon

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially cheaper
  • noticeably lighter
  • moderately more trunk space
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By Achim Sedelmaier

S-Class

Luxury Meets Versatility: Comparing the Mercedes S-Klasse and VW Arteon

In the world of premium automobiles, the Mercedes S-Klasse and VW Arteon stand out as epitomes of luxury and versatility. Both models promise engineering excellence and innovative advancements. However, they cater to slightly different audiences. This comparative analysis delves into the details that set these vehicles apart, focusing on their technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience.

Arteon

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

The engine offerings of the S-Klasse are a testament to its power. With a variety of engines ranging from the petrol MHEV to the impressive 802 HP plugin hybrid, the S-Klasse provides a blend of power and efficiency. The vehicle's top speed of 250 km/h and a remarkable acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, showcase its capability to deliver a thrilling drive.

Contrastingly, the VW Arteon brings a balance of power and efficiency. Offering engines with up to 320 HP, it manages a top speed of 250 km/h. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds caters to those seeking ample performance. The Arteon’s dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures smooth transitions and responsive driving dynamics.

S-Class

Dimensions and Design: Presence and Practicality

In terms of dimensions, the S-Klasse commands a significant presence with its longer length of up to 5469 mm and a width of 1954 mm. The generous dimensions are mirrored inside, providing comfort with seating for five and a trunk capacity ranging up to 550 L.

Meanwhile, the VW Arteon, with its sleek wagon design, offers a youthful and bold aesthetic. It measures 4866 mm in length and 1871 mm in width, with an adaptable cargo space of up to 590 L, emphasizing practicality for everyday use and long journeys.

Arteon

Innovations and Technological Advancements

The S-Klasse excels in integrating sophisticated technologies that enhance user experience. Equipped with the latest infotainment systems, smart driver aids, and ambient lighting, it pampers both the driver and passengers. Its high-end materials and state-of-the-art interior displays stand out as hallmarks of luxury.

The Arteon is no less impressive with its cutting-edge technology designed to ensure comfort and connectivity. The intuitive cockpit, digital infotainment system, and advanced safety features make it a formidable contender in terms of modern automotive innovation.

S-Class

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Efficiency is a cornerstone of both models, yet they approach it differently. The S-Klasse’s hybrid variants shine with a commendable electric range up to 114 km, positioning it as an environmentally conscious choice in the luxury segment. With CO2 emissions as low as 19 g/km, it sets a high bar for sustainable luxury driving.

The VW Arteon prioritizes fuel economy with its petrol and diesel options, consuming as little as 5.1 L/100km, translating to efficient long-haul capabilities. CO2 emissions starting from 133 g/km highlight its commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance.

Arteon

The Verdict: Personal Preference and Purpose

The Mercedes S-Klasse and VW Arteon serve distinct purposes. The S-Klasse is an emblem of luxury with unmatched comfort, power, and cutting-edge technology, ideal for those seeking the ultimate in driving elegance. Meanwhile, the Arteon provides a versatile, efficient, and modern driving experience that caters to both performance enthusiasts and practical drivers.

Ultimately, the choice between the S-Klasse and the Arteon comes down to personal preference: a decision between the allure of an iconic luxury sedan and the practicality of a sophisticated wagon.

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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

S-Class

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Arteon is substantially cheaper – starting at 43,300 £ , while the Mercedes S-Class costs 104,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 60,738 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes S-Class uses 2.2 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the VW Arteon with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 2.9 L/100km.

Arteon

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes S-Class offers clearly more power – delivering 635 HP compared to 320 HP. That’s roughly 315 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes S-Class is markedly quicker – completing the sprint in 4 s, while the VW Arteon takes 4.9 s. That’s about 0.9 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes S-Class delivers clearly more torque with 850 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 430 Nm more.

S-Class

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, VW Arteon is noticeably lighter – 1,607 kg compared to 2,165 kg. The difference is around 558 kg.

Looking at boot space, the VW Arteon offers moderately more boot space – 590 L compared to 530 L. That’s a difference of about 60 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes S-Class carries moderately more – 660 kg compared to 569 kg. That’s a difference of about 91 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes S-Class is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £104,000
S-Class

Mercedes S-Class

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 336 - 635 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 2.2 - 11 L/100km
  • Electric Range 98 - 118 km
details
Mercedes S-Class
VW Arteon

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mercedes S-Class

The Mercedes S-Class wraps peerless comfort, whisper-quiet luxury and subtle tech wizardry into a chauffeur-ready package that still knows how to engage the driver. It’s the car for buyers who want to arrive relaxed, be taken seriously and occasionally enjoy a grin when the road reminds them this limousine can dance.

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Reviews Mercedes S-Class

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VW Arteon

The VW Arteon cuts a fastback silhouette that manages to look more expensive than it is, with a cabin that feels calm, roomy and smartly finished. It blends relaxed long distance comfort with a touch of sporting poise, making it a clever choice for buyers who want grand touring polish without shouting for attention.

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Reviews VW Arteon

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

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Mercedes S-Class
VW Arteon

Costs and Consumption
Price
104,000 - 201,400 £
Price
43,300 - 60,800 £
Consumption L/100km
2.2 - 11 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
98 - 118 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
50 - 252 g/km
co2
133 - 195 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
66 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
5
Curb weight
2,165 - 2,650 kg
Curb weight
1,607 - 1,773 kg
Trunk capacity
345 - 530 L
Trunk capacity
590 L
Length
-
Length
4,866 mm
Width
1,921 mm
Width
1,871 mm
Height
-
Height
1,434 - 1,451 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
1,632 L
Payload
420 - 660 kg
Payload
467 - 569 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
336 - 635 HP
Power HP
150 - 320 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4 - 5.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.4 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
216 - 250 km/h
Torque
560 - 850 Nm
Torque
320 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
247 - 467 kW
Power kW
110 - 235 kW
Engine capacity
2,989 - 3,982 cm3
Engine capacity
1,968 - 1,984 cm3

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, G
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
VW
Is the Mercedes S-Class offered with different drivetrains?

The Mercedes S-Class is offered with All-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.