BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an automotive icon that fulfills its lofty expectations for comfort, performance, technology, and refinement. Last redesigned for the 2021 model year, Mercedes’ flagship sedan receives only small changes for 2025, including newly standard features like digital key functionality and a center airbag, some additional paint colors, and wider availability of the AMG Line trim package.

Verdict: Quite simply, the S-Class is the best luxury sedan that doesn't wear a Bentley or Rolls-Royce badge. With several models to choose from and a dizzying array of options, there seems to be a perfect match for a variety of tastes, provided you have a six-figure budget.

Redesigned for 2023, the 7 Series is BMW's full-size flagship sedan, arch-rival to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and newcomers like the Genesis G90. For 2024, BMW has added the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 750e and lightly updated the infotainment system. Unfortunately, these additions don't change the 7 Series calculus. The 750e offers a boost in power and efficiency over the low-end 740i, but it costs more, has a disjointed driving personality, and quickly eats its electric charge. Despite the update, the car's digital systems remain frustratingly complex.

Verdict: The 2024 BMW 7 Series has lots to offer luxury buyers, including features like a rear-seat theatre and cashmere upholstery, plus performance and fuel efficiency that are often superior to most rivals, few of whom offer PHEV options. But the car's frustrating digital systems and controls undermine the experience.