2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2026 BMW M5
Comparison Overview
The most significant numerical divergence between the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the 2026 BMW M5 is the power output, with the M5 generating a colossal 717 hp compared to the S-Class's 442 hp, a 275 hp advantage. This performance disparity is mirrored in fuel economy, where the S-Class achieves 24 combined MPG versus the M5's 14 combined MPG. Pricewise, the S-Class offers an entry point $4,150 lower at $117,750 against the M5's $121,900 MSRP. The M5 boasts significantly more torque at 738 lb-ft versus 413 lb-ft and includes a 29-mile electric range component, a feature absent in the standard S-Class specification provided. Dimensionally, the S-Class is over 7.6 inches longer (208.2 inches vs. 200.6 inches), though the M5 offers 3.7 cu ft more cargo space at 16.5 cu ft.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the winner for commuters due to its superior combined fuel economy rating of 24 MPG versus the M5's 14 MPG.
2026 BMW M5
The 2026 BMW M5 offers substantially more usable space for cargo, providing 16.5 cu ft compared to the S-Class's 12.8 cu ft.
2026 BMW M5
The M5 definitively leads in performance metrics, boasting 717 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, dramatically exceeding the S-Class's output.
2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The S-Class provides better overall efficiency and a lower initial cost at $117,750, making it the better value proposition when prioritizing fuel savings over extreme performance.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz S-Class if...
- You prioritize fuel efficiency, indicated by a 24 combined MPG rating versus the M5's 14 MPG.
- Your budget requires starting at the lower MSRP of $117,750.
- You require the slightly longer overall vehicle length of 208.2 inches for visual presence.
Choose the BMW M5 if...
- Maximum acceleration and power are paramount, evidenced by the 717 hp output.
- You can utilize the 29 miles of available electric range for zero-emission local driving.
- You need superior luggage capacity with 16.5 cu ft available versus the S-Class's 12.8 cu ft.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mercedes-Benz S-Class | BMW M5 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 208.2" | 200.6" |
| Width | 76.9" | 77.6" |
| Height | 59.2" | 59.4" |
| Wheelbase | 126.6" | 118.3" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | — |
| 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 |
| Brake Drying | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Headlights | ✓ | — |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Power Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Multi-Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | — |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.0 L | 4.4 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 6 | V8 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | plug-in hybrid |
| Horsepower | 442 hp | 717 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 413 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 32 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | — |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 21/31 MPG | 12/19 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 24 MPG | 14 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 420.0/620.0 mi. | 190.8/302.1 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20.0 gal. | 15.9 gal. |
| EPA Efficiency (City/Highway MPGe) | — | 41/57 MPGe |
| EPA Efficiency (Combined MPGe) | — | 47 MPGe |
| EPA Electric Driving Range | — | 29 mi. |
| EPA Energy Consumption (kWh/100 mi) | — | 55 |
| Charging Time (240V) | — | 2.0 hr. |
| DC Fast Charging Port Type | — | SAE J1772 |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wood Trim on Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Extended Cabin Heating/Cooling | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sun Sensor | ✓ | — |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Four Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.8 in | 14.9 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Speaker Brand | Burmester | Bowers & Wilkins |
| Stereo Power | 710W | 655W |
| Speaker System | 15 | 18 |
| Subwoofer Count | 2 | — |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | ✓ | — |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Memory Card Slot | ✓ | — |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 6 months | 12 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | — |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | 1st Row Fixed Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 42.1 in. | 39.0 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.4 in. | 41.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.6 in. | 59.2 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 12-way | 12-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 2 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 12-way | 12-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | 3 | — |
| 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: Premium Leather | — | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.4 in. | 37.5 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 43.8 in. | 36.2 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 59.0 in. | 56.9 in. |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 19 x 8.5 in | 21 x 11.0 in. |
| Tire Size | 255/45R19 | 295/35R21 |
| Run Flat Tires | ✓ | — |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
| Tire Type | — | Performance |
Suspension
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | — |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | — |
Warranty
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. | 8 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 2026 BMW M5.
How significant is the performance difference between the two sedans?
The difference is profound; the 2026 BMW M5 produces 717 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, which is 275 more horsepower than the 442 hp delivered by the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This suggests the M5 is engineered for vastly quicker acceleration times.
What is the real-world fuel cost implication of choosing one over the other?
The S-Class achieves 24 combined MPG while the M5 achieves 14 combined MPG, a difference of 10 MPG. Furthermore, the S-Class requires only premium unleaded, whereas the M5 incorporates an electric range of 29 miles, fundamentally altering daily fueling patterns.
Does the size disparity affect passenger or cargo accommodations?
While the S-Class is 7.6 inches longer overall, the M5 provides greater cargo capacity at 16.5 cu ft compared to the S-Class's 12.8 cu ft. Both vehicles share a similar width (76.9 in vs. 77.6 in) and height (59.2 in vs. 59.4 in).
Are there any transmission differences noted in these specifications?
Yes, the 2025 S-Class utilizes a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission, while the 2026 M5 is equipped with an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
How closely matched are the base MSRPs for these models?
The pricing is competitive, with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class starting at $117,750 and the BMW M5 slightly higher at $121,900, representing a $4,150 initial cost differential.
How do the torque figures compare, and what does this mean?
The BMW M5 generates 738 lb-ft of torque, significantly overpowering the S-Class's 413 lb-ft figure. Higher torque typically translates to superior initial pulling power and on-road responsiveness, especially at lower engine speeds.
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