Don't Get Stuck with a Green License Plate: The S-Class Leasing Deadline Approaches!

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to test drive the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

This model featured a two-tone color scheme, and

due to its luxurious design and unique appeal, more people are seeking it out.

Today, I will share various details about the Benz S-Class, including discounts,

and the corporate leasing policy that will take effect in 2024.

The Benz S-Class enjoys the highest popularity among imported flagship sedans.

From January to October 2023, sales reached 8,949 units,

averaging nearly 900 units sold per month.

This places it fourth behind the Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Tesla Model Y,

and it holds overwhelming numbers among flagship models.

Many S-Class owners are around me,

most of whom run their own businesses, and unfortunately, I haven't met any colleagues like myself.

Most operate their vehicles through corporate leasing,

and they tend to replace them with new models every four years or so.

I asked the owners for their feedback, and

they all highlighted the comfortable ride in the second row and the dignified experience of getting in and out as their strong points.

In the past, the S-Class appealed with its dignified charm, but

now it targets a broader age range with a youthful and sophisticated image.

Whereas older owners of large sedans were mostly older,

today, younger owners are becoming more common,

and they actively consider the opinions of their wives and young children who ride along with them.

This shift makes the S-Class feel more youthful compared to the past.

Is now the right time for corporate leasing in 2023?

For those considering corporate leasing, I advise not to wait until next year.

The biggest reason is to avoid becoming an early member of the light green license plate group.

Starting January 1, 2024, vehicles purchased by corporations costing over 80 million KRW (approximately 60,000 USD) will be required to have light green license plates.

This policy aims to prevent the personal use of corporate vehicles. However,

since the purchase price of all S-Class trims exceeds 100 million KRW (approximately 75,000 USD),

they will all need to display the light green license plates.

Many media outlets have circulated images showing what it might feel like to drive with a light green license plate,

but the reality is that many are still struggling to adapt to this change.

Moreover, South Korean society tends to be sensitive to others' opinions,

and there is a tendency to avoid rumors, making it feel burdensome to drive with a light green license plate from the start.

However, when light green license plates become common on the streets,

people may feel less burdened when they see them frequently, though predicting when that will happen is difficult.

I expect that starting next year, more people will seek out the existing license plates,

which will likely make leasing transfers easier.

More people will likely prefer the S-Class with the existing license plates over those with light green plates.

While it may not feel urgent now, seeing a car on the road with a light green license plate could change perceptions.

Corporate leasing provides tax relief of up to 15 million KRW (approximately 11,000 USD) annually,

and since all expenses can be covered by the corporation, many business owners take advantage of this option.

Additionally, it offers many advantages, such as the ability to use it without the burden of initial costs.

Therefore, I recommend purchasing this year to avoid the light green license plates.

The light green license plates for corporate vehicles will not apply retroactively.

Therefore, if you receive your vehicle by December,

you likely won't need to switch to a light green license plate for the next three to four years.

Since the light green license plates won't apply retroactively,

vehicles purchased this year won't require them, so even if you don't need a new car right away, consider this from a long-term perspective.

The decreasing inventory and discount rates suggest that now is the right time!

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has offered significant discounts.

However, as inventory starts to dwindle and with the transition to the 2024 model, discount rates are gradually decreasing.

The changes with the new model mainly involve software and key updates.

As the German headquarters continues to reduce the inventory of vehicles arriving in South Korea,

it seems more likely that discount rates will decrease rather than increase in the future.

It’s best to consult those who have quick access to information about Mercedes-Benz for updates.

Recently, I visited a nearby showroom to see the S-Class in person and gather various information.

Even though it has been two and a half years since the new model's release, it continues to maintain the luxurious and sophisticated image expected of a flagship model.

There are no quality issues, and the ride comfort has received high praise from owners for this large flagship sedan.

I've shared various information so far, but if you have additional questions, it would be good to consult a professional consultant at Readers Auto Solution.

Especially since they apply the stock and discount rates from all dealers,

you can benefit more than if you only inquire at specific dealerships.

2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Specifications and Model Comparison

Overall Length: 207.5 inches

Overall Width: 75.6 inches

Overall Height: 59.3 inches

Wheelbase: 126.6 inches

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers a variety of powertrains to choose from,

with a higher preference for eco-friendly models like plug-in hybrids and gasoline engines over diesel.

Ultimately, it’s important to choose based on the intended use of the corporate vehicle and the driving environment, right?

(Long Body)

S500 4MATIC

S580 4MATIC 39.1 / 1,800 ~ 5,800 Displacement (cc) 3,982 and share stock and discount policies from all dealers, allowing for competitive pricing.

Maximum Output (hp / rpm)	435 / 6,100 503 / 5,500	Maximum Torque (lb-ft / rpm)
52.6 / 2,000 ~ 4,500	Engine Inline 6-cylinder	V8
2,999	0-60 mph (seconds)	4.9 4.4
	As mentioned earlier regarding the light green license plates, there are expectations that leasing transfers for diesel models will become challenging in the future.	We cannot predict the future, but it’s wise to be prepared, right?
	Today, I shared various information, including reasons why you should purchase the Benz S-Class this year.	Since this model is popular for corporate leasing, it is naturally more sensitive to the light green license plates than any other vehicle, so I recommend considering these factors.
First Auto Culture (FAC) operates an offline center in Gangnam, where the import car trade is most active, and has accumulated over ten years of expertise as a new car leasing agency.	They specialize in consulting for imported vehicles, including the three major German brands, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari,

You can easily apply for consultations through their website,

and choose your preferred method of contact, whether it’s KakaoTalk, phone, or text,

to receive the lowest price comparisons and delivery availability information.

As the year-end approaches, if you want to understand the overall situation of automotive brands due to significant market changes,

I recommend checking with First Auto Culture.

This post received content production support from FAC.