New Entry-Level Mercedes S-Class Offers Leather-Free Interior, Starting at Nearly $130,000 in Germany

The all-new, redesigned Mercedes-Benz S-Class has launched an entry-level S350d variant in the German market, offering—for the first time—an interior option completely free of genuine leather. This model features seats upholstered in a combination of synthetic leather and fabric made from flax and recycled polyester, accented with white stitching. The door panels are wrapped in grained artificial leather. Although the U.S. market only receives the long-wheelbase version and does not get diesel models, it is noteworthy that Mercedes-Benz now makes the leather-free interior standard, while genuine leather becomes a no-cost optional upgrade. Priced from €109,220 (approximately $130,000) in Germany—including 19% VAT—the base model comes standard with 18-inch wheels, gray exterior paint (which can be swapped for black at no extra cost), and a passenger-side display screen. The steering wheel also features simplified controls, replacing touch-sensitive buttons with physical scroll wheels. This move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable luxury.