Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class, marking the mid-cycle refresh of the W223 generation. The facelifted luxury sedan brings noticeable design revisions, next-generation technology and feature upgrades as well as revised powertrains to meet the upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards. It also offers extended customization options through Mercedes-Benz’s Manufacture program, giving buyers more scope for personalization. The facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class will first go on sale in global markets and is expected to arrive in India in late 2026 or early 2027. It remains to be seen whether the updated S-Class will be assembled locally or brought to the country as a completely built unit (CBU).
2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:PowertrainTalking about powertrain options first, no new engine options have been introduced, the existing powertrain line-up continues unchanged, although the entire range has been updated to comply with the upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards. Both the six-cylinder diesel and petrol V8s have been retained in the updated line-up. Among them is a reworked 3,982cc twin-turbo V8, now known as the M177 Evo, which adopts a flat-plane crankshaft with a revised firing order and employs dual balancer shafts to combat vibration. This engine in S 580 gives 537hp and 750Nm. The six-cylinder petrol unit, now named M256 Evo, has also been revised, receiving updates such as optimized intake and exhaust passages, a re-profiled intake camshaft and improved insulation. The six-cylinder diesel, designated OM656 Evo, has been upgraded with measures including an electrically heated catalytic converter to meet the strict emissions norms. The plug-in hybrid versions have also been enhanced, with their electric-only driving range increasing from 75 km previously to almost 100 km.
All engines continue to be supported by a 48V mild-hybrid system paired with a 17kW integrated starter generator. Mercedes says the system has been further refined to provide earlier boost and smoother transitions between coasting and engine-powered operation. For India, the line-up is expected to be limited to regular six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, with V8 and plug-in hybrid variants unlikely to be offered. Adaptive air suspension remains standard, with active self-leveling offered as an option. Rear-axle steering is now standard at 4.5 degrees, while a 10-degree setup remains an option.
In addition to the standard S-Class, Mercedes-Benz will also offer AMG and AMG Line Plus trims with sportier styling elements along with the armored Mercedes-Benz S 680 Guard 4Matic. GUARD 4MATIC utilizes the brand’s in-house Integrated Protection System (iSS), which combines a purpose-built protective cell with a discreet aluminum exterior as well as a reworked chassis. This setup enables the vehicle to meet VR10 standards, the highest level of civilian ballistic protection. Mercedes says the armored passenger compartment has been tested using a biofidelic dummy designed to closely simulate human physical characteristics. This variant will get a more powerful 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine.
2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: DesignDesign-wise, the updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class retains its familiar silhouette, with the most noticeable changes concentrated at the front. The facelift brings a more attractive, larger front grille, which includes chrome star inserts within the slats and a subtle illuminated surround. The bonnet-mounted star is also illuminated, while the headlamps are larger and incorporate triple three-pointed star-shaped DRLs. These units use Mercedes’ latest micro-LED digital light technology, which provides higher illumination that Mercedes says provides 40 percent better illumination and also has an ultra-range high beam with a reach of up to 600 metres.
At the sides, changes are minimal and include new alloy wheel designs, including a complex 50-spoke option produced using a high-pressure casting process, and new exterior paint shades, many of which are sourced from the Manufaktur range. The car also has a greater number of sensors – including cameras, radar and ultrasonic units to support advanced driver assistance systems. At the rear, the major update is a set of slimmer tail-lamps that now incorporate three-pointed star LED elements, as seen in the latest E-Class.2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Interior and featuresMoving inside, the updated S-Class features a glossy black panel with three displays, referred to by Mercedes as SuperScreen. While the 12.3-inch driver and front passenger screens remain in their usual positions, the centerpiece is the 14.4-inch touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions. It gets the latest version of Mercedes’ digital architecture, known as MB OS, which integrates key vehicle functions including lighting, cameras, powertrain and suspension, and supports AI-powered features, cloud connectivity, Google Maps-based navigation and vehicle-to-all functions.
Rear passengers continue to get two 13.1-inch entertainment touchscreens, while the central rear control tablet has been replaced with two smaller individual touch controllers. The cabin retains leather upholstery, optional quilting and limited wood or trim inserts, and the climate vents are now concealed behind illuminated metal strips, with operated vents that can be adjusted digitally or manually.
Most functions need to be accessed via the touchscreen and a thin row of capacitive shortcuts. It also gets facial recognition through the dashboard-mounted camera that also supports video calls and cabin monitoring. Rear-seat changes are minimal, with the long wheelbase version getting up to 43 degrees of recline, heating, ventilation, massage function, optional four-seat configuration and higher levels of comfort.
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