Selling Guide

Selling Your Mercedes S-Class? Here Are The 5 Best Alternatives To Buy

Q: What is the main competitor to the Mercedes S-Class?

The most direct competitor to the Mercedes S-Class is the BMW 7 Series. The latest generations of both cars are fierce rivals, with the S-Class (W223) focusing on classic luxury and comfort, while the new 7 Series (G70) pushes the boundaries with bold design and cutting-edge in-car technology like its 31-inch Theatre Screen.

Q: Which S-Class alternative is the best for driving pleasure?

For those who prioritise driving dynamics and performance in a luxury saloon, the Porsche Panamera is the best alternative. Models like the Panamera 4S and Turbo E-Hybrid offer handling and acceleration that are more akin to a sports car than a large executive vehicle.

Ready to sell your Mercedes S-Class? Explore the top 5 alternatives to the definitive luxury saloon, from the tech-forward BMW 7 Series to the dynamic Porsche Panamera. Find your next flagship car here.

The Apany Team

Published on 12 September 2025

5 min read

Selling Your Mercedes S-Class? Here Are The 5 Best Alternatives To Buy

For decades, the Mercedes S-Class has been the undisputed benchmark for luxury, innovation, and comfort. The current W223 generation continues this legacy with its MBUX Hyperscreen and serene ride quality. But what happens when you’re ready for a change? The latest generation of competitors has seriously raised the bar, offering unique takes on high-end motoring. If you're selling your S-Class, here are the five best, most detailed alternatives to consider.

1. BMW 7 Series (G70)

The latest BMW 7 Series is the S-Class's arch-rival and makes a bold statement with its controversial design and futuristic technology. It's offered with a diverse range of powertrains, from the fully electric i7 with its dual motors and huge 101.7kWh battery, to powerful plug-in hybrids like the 750e xDrive. Its standout feature is the optional 31.3-inch 8K Theatre Screen for rear passengers, which folds down from the headliner and turns the cabin into a private cinema.

Key Features & Models

Electric Flagship: The i7 xDrive60 offers over 360 miles of range and near-silent, rapid acceleration.
Plug-in Hybrids: The 750e xDrive combines a 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 489 hp and over 50 miles of electric-only range.
In-Car Tech: The cabin is dominated by the BMW Curved Display running iDrive 8 and the unique "Interaction Bar" for ambient lighting and controls.

2. Audi A8 (D5 Facelift)

If the S-Class represents opulent luxury and the 7 Series futuristic tech, the Audi A8 champions understated elegance and superb build quality. The A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro is the plug-in hybrid choice, pairing a 3.0-litre V6 with an electric motor for a total of 456 hp. For ultimate performance, there's the S8, which uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 563 hp. Every A8 feels impeccably built, with a serene cabin that uses twin haptic touchscreens (MMI Touch Response) for a clean, button-less look.

The A8's predictive active suspension is a standout feature, scanning the road ahead to proactively adjust for bumps, creating an incredibly smooth ride.

Key Takeaway

The Audi A8 is the sophisticated choice, perfect for those who appreciate meticulous engineering, standard Quattro all-wheel-drive grip, and timeless, elegant design.

3. Porsche Panamera (G2 II)

For the S-Class owner who secretly craves a sports car, the Porsche Panamera is the ultimate solution. It seamlessly blends four-door practicality with the heart and soul of a 911. The range is extensive, from the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid with a 2.9-litre V6 and electric motor, to the astonishingly fast Turbo S E-Hybrid, which uses a 4.0-litre V8 and electric motor to produce a staggering 690 hp.

Checklist for the Driver

Unmatched Dynamics: Features like Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and optional rear-axle steering make it handle like a much smaller car.
Powertrain Choice: Offers everything from efficient V6 hybrids to monstrous twin-turbo V8s.
Driver-Focused Cockpit: The Porsche Driver Experience interior puts all key controls within easy reach of the driver, yet still feels luxurious.

4. Genesis G90 (RS4)

The Genesis G90 has emerged as a truly credible threat to the German establishment. In the UK and Europe, it's offered with a sophisticated 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine featuring a 48V electric supercharger, producing 409 hp. This setup ensures smooth, lag-free power delivery. The G90 is about effortless comfort, boasting features like power-closing doors, an active noise-cancelling cabin, and massaging seats for all occupants.

Standout Features

Unique Powertrain: The 3.5T V6 with electric supercharger is smooth, powerful, and technologically advanced.
Striking Design: Its "Athletic Elegance" theme with twin-line headlamps and a bold crest grille ensures it won't be mistaken for anything else.
All-Inclusive Luxury: Comes with an exceptional level of standard equipment, removing the need for an extensive and expensive options list.

5. Lexus LS 500h

The Lexus LS provides a different flavour of luxury, rooted in Japanese *Omotenashi* (hospitality) principles. The LS 500h is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 Multi-Stage Hybrid system, which combines the petrol engine with two electric motors for a total output of 354 hp. This complex system is engineered for supreme smoothness and quietness. The interior is a work of art, featuring unique materials like Kiriko cut glass and hand-pleated fabric on the door panels.

Why Choose the Lexus LS?

Whisper-Quiet Drive: The Multi-Stage Hybrid system provides a serene and calming driving experience.
Takumi Craftsmanship: The interior quality and attention to detail are second to none, reflecting the skill of Lexus's master craftspeople.
Legendary Reliability: Offers peace of mind with a reputation for impeccable build quality and long-term durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main competitor to the Mercedes S-Class?

The most direct competitor to the Mercedes S-Class (W223) is the BMW 7 Series (G70). The S-Class focuses on classic luxury and comfort, while the new 7 Series pushes the boundaries with bold design and cutting-edge in-car technology like its 31-inch Theatre Screen.

Which S-Class alternative is the best for driving pleasure?

For those who prioritise driving dynamics in a luxury saloon, the Porsche Panamera is the best alternative. Models like the Panamera 4S and Turbo E-Hybrid offer handling and acceleration that are more akin to a sports car than a large executive vehicle.

Are there any non-German alternatives to the S-Class?

Yes, there are excellent non-German alternatives. The Lexus LS 500h is renowned for its supreme comfort and bulletproof reliability with its multi-stage hybrid system, while the Genesis G90 offers a compelling package of striking design and luxurious comfort, powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with an electric supercharger.

“Most people aren’t aware that consignment, where a dealer sells your car for you, is even an option. It's the hassle-free way to get the best price without the risks of a private sale.”

Sell Your Mercedes S-Class on Consignment with Apany

Ready to explore one of these fantastic alternatives? Skip the hassle of private listings or undervalued trade-ins. Apany connects you with trusted UK dealers who can sell your Mercedes S-Class on your behalf, ensuring you get the best possible market value.

It’s simple: list your car, set your price, and let vetted dealers handle the sale. You stay in control, with no upfront fees and none of the usual hassle. Start your consignment journey here with Apany.

The Apany Team

Apany Team