Mercedes-Benz S-Class Wins 2027 Car of the Year Award
The luxury sedan takes the top honor against a competitive field of 22 models, providing a benchmark for car shoppers.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been named the 2027 MotorTrend Car of the Year, beating out finalists including the Corvette Grand Sport, Corvette Grand Sport X, and the 2027 Chevy Bolt. These contenders were part of a larger field of 22 models and 16 nameplates evaluated for the top industry honor.
Why it matters
For car shoppers, these annual awards provide a benchmark for vehicle performance, safety, and value. The selection process highlights how major manufacturers currently stack up in terms of engineering and design efficiency for the 2027 model year.
Finalists were evaluated across 22 models and 16 nameplates. Candidates underwent rigorous back-to-back testing at a proving ground followed by a mandatory 21-mile road drive.
The players
Mercedes-Benz
A German luxury automotive manufacturer known for engineering high-end sedans and SUVs with a focus on advanced technology and performance.
Chevrolet
An American automotive brand that manufactures a wide range of vehicles, from high-performance sports cars to consumer-focused electric models.
MotorTrend
An automotive magazine and media company that evaluates new vehicle releases annually to award top industry honors.
The details
To determine the winner, judges conduct comprehensive testing at an automaker proving ground to assess engineering and performance. Finalists are then driven on public roads for a 21-mile circuit, allowing judges to evaluate real-world handling and comfort before they debate and cast their final ballots.
Timeline
2027 MotorTrend Car of the Year award period
The Home Front
This award selection follows the long-standing precedent of the MotorTrend Car of the Year competition. It marks the latest industry-wide assessment of engineering trends and design standards for new consumer vehicles.
When shopping for a 2027 model, use these rankings as a high-level guide to identify vehicles that have undergone extensive third-party testing. Always schedule your own test drive to ensure the vehicle dimensions and features meet your specific daily driving needs.
The takeaway
The MotorTrend Car of the Year award highlights the top contenders in a competitive field of new vehicles. Homeowners shopping for their next car should prioritize models that align with their specific driving habits and family logistics requirements.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in the Electric Vehicles segment.
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Do you prefer sports cars to feature traditional mechanical performance over advanced hybrid technology?
