What are the differences between W221 and W222?

[DiEliana]

w221 and w222 have different chassis codes: w221 is the chassis code for the previous generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class; w222 is the chassis code for the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. These two generations differ in powertrain, exterior design, and interior design. The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is equipped with four engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a low-power 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine, a medium-power 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine, and a high-power 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. All four engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

[DelOmar]

As an owner of the older W221, I feel the main differences lie in the technological advancements. The W222, launched in 2013 as the newer model, features more streamlined body lines, especially with the front headlights becoming slender strips and the taillights redesigned into a double-bar style. The most noticeable change when sitting inside is the center console—the older W221 had only a 7-inch screen, while the new model boasts two 12.3-inch large screens, floating on the dashboard like tablets. When driving, the W222's Magic Body Control system is truly cutting-edge, almost eliminating bumps over speed bumps, a feature my older model lacks. In terms of fuel consumption, the W222 hybrid version saves about 20% more fuel, but with more electronic components, replacing a sensor might cost an extra thousand bucks.

[DelAlexis]

Having repaired Mercedes-Benz for over a decade, I encounter W221 and W222 chassis models daily. The core difference lies in the body structure - W222 uses more aluminum alloys, making the frame 100kg lighter while increasing rigidity by 30%. Significant electronic upgrades include replacing electro-hydraulic power steering with pure electric power steering (lighter but costlier to repair). While both use V6/V8 engines, W222 adds 48V mild hybrid system (near-silent cold starts). Suspension differs greatly too - W222 features standard air suspension with individual wheel adjustment, whereas it was only available on high-trim W221s. When buying used, prioritize electrical system checks as newer models have slightly higher electronic failure rates.

[StAshlyn]

Last week, I accompanied a friend to pick up a used W222, and the comparison with my W221 was quite noticeable. The new column shifter design is more refined, while the old gear lever behind the steering wheel feels a bit awkward to operate. The seat ventilation has improved significantly—the W222 offers three adjustable levels, preventing back sweat during summer drives. The center console touchpad is a brand-new design, allowing slide controls like a laptop touchpad, which is more convenient than the old rotary knob. The automatic high beam is incredibly useful at night, as it dims specific LED segments when oncoming traffic is detected. The wheelbases of both models are similar, but the W222 has wider rear doors, making entry and exit more comfortable without bumping your head.