2025 Genesis G90 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Comparison Overview
Deciding between the 2025 Genesis G90 and the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class often boils down to balancing sheer prestige against smart savings. While both offer flagship luxury, the $29,800 MSRP gap is significant, starting the G90 at $89,700 compared to the S-Class’s $119,500. Performance figures show the S-Class leads with 442 hp against the G90’s 375 hp, though both utilize standard all-wheel drive systems. Interestingly, the efficiency battle is close; the S-Class pulls ahead slightly with 23 MPG combined versus the G90’s 21 MPG combined. While the S-Class offers marginally more space (12.8 cu ft vs. 12.0 cu ft cargo), the G90 delivers nearly all the necessary flagship presence for considerably less money, making the premium outlay for the Benz a conscious decision for brand loyalty or minor performance gains.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Genesis G90
The Genesis G90's lower MSRP makes it the more financially sensible choice for a daily driver where excessive power isn't the top priority.
2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The S-Class wins slightly due to its marginally superior efficiency (23 MPG combined) and marginally larger 12.8 cu ft cargo capacity for weekend trips.
2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The 2026 S-Class provides a definitive performance edge with 442 hp and a 9-speed automatic transmission compared to the G90’s 375 hp.
2025 Genesis G90
The G90 offers flagship luxury dimensions and respectable power for $29,800 less than the S-Class.
Choose the Genesis G90 if...
- You want to save $29,800 upfront, as the G90 starts at $89,700.
- You prioritize core luxury features without needing the absolute highest horsepower figure (375 hp is substantial).
- You are comfortable with a 21 MPG combined fuel economy figure.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz S-Class if...
- You require the maximum available performance, indicated by the 442 hp output.
- You want the most modern setup, featuring a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- You need the slightly better highway cruising efficiency of 29 MPG.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Genesis G90 | Mercedes-Benz S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 207.7" | 209.5" |
| Width | 76.0" | 75.6" |
| Height | 58.7" | 59.2" |
| Wheelbase | 125.2" | 126.6" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Power Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cross Traffic Alert | — | ✓ |
| Brake Drying | — | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | — | ✓ |
| Adaptive Headlights | — | ✓ |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | — | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | — | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | — | ✓ |
| Rear Multi-Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.5 L | 3.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | V6 | inline 6 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 375 hp @ 5800 rpm | 442 hp |
| Torque | 391 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | 413 lb-ft |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 24 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 18/26 MPG | 20/29 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 21 MPG | 23 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 347.4/501.8 mi. | 400.0/580.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19.3 gal. | 20.0 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Side View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors with Side Sensing | ✓ | — |
| Automatic Parking Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Three Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | — |
| Extended Cabin Heating/Cooling | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cargo Floor Mats | ✓ | — |
| Rear Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Wood Trim on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | — | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | — | ✓ |
| Sun Sensor | — | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 12.8 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Brand Speakers | Bang & Olufsen | — |
| Stereo Power | 1400W | 710W |
| Speaker System | 15 | 15 |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 6 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Speaker Brand | — | Burmester |
| Subwoofer Count | — | 2 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.4 in. | 42.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 42.3 in. | 41.4 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.1 in. | 59.6 in. |
| Seat Material: Premium Leather | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 18-way | 12-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 3 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 16-way | 12-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Driver Seat Ventilation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Ventilation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Seat Massage Function | ✓ | ✓ |
| Seat Material: Leather | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | — | 3 |
Rearseats
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.0 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 37.8 in. | 43.8 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 57.9 in. | 59.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | — |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | — |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Rear Seats (Multi-Level) | ✓ | — |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Painted Alloy Wheels | ✓ | — |
| Polished Alloy Wheels | ✓ | — |
| Wheel Size | 20 x 9.5 in. | 19 x 8.5 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | — |
| Tire Size | 275/40R20 | 255/45R19 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | — |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | — |
| Wheel Material | — | Alloy |
| Run Flat Tires | — | ✓ |
Suspension
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Genesis | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 10 yr./ 100000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 7 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | — |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Genesis G90 and 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
How much more expensive is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class compared to the 2025 Genesis G90?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class commands a significant premium, with an MSRP of $119,500 compared to the 2025 Genesis G90's starting price of $89,700, resulting in a $29,800 difference.
Which vehicle offers better fuel economy for routine driving?
The S-Class has a slight edge in efficiency, achieving 23 MPG combined (20 city/29 highway), while the G90 posts 21 MPG combined (18 city/26 highway).
Is the performance difference between these two sedans noticeable?
Yes, the S-Class offers substantially more power with 442 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, easily surpassing the G90’s 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque.
Do both cars require premium fuel?
Both vehicles recommend or require premium unleaded fuel; the Genesis G90 recommends it, whereas the S-Class explicitly requires it for its higher performance engine.
Are there major differences in size or cargo space?
Both vehicles are large luxury sedans, but the S-Class is slightly longer at 209.5 inches and offers marginally more storage with 12.8 cu ft of cargo capacity compared to the G90's 12.0 cu ft.
What is the benefit of the S-Class's 9-speed transmission over the G90's 8-speed?
The S-Class uses a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission, potentially allowing for smoother, quieter cruising at highway speeds and contributing to its slightly better efficiency figures.
More Luxury Sedans Over $80,000
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool