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, along with revised powertrains engineered to meet upcoming Euro 7 emission standards. It also offers expanded customisation options through Mercedes-Benz’s Manufaktur programme, allowing buyers greater scope for personalisation. The facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class will first go on sale in global markets and is expected to arrive in India by late 2026 or early 2027. It remains to be seen whether the updated S-Class will be locally assembled or brought to the country as a completely built unit (CBU).

2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: PowertrainTalking about the powertrain options first, no new engine options have been introduced, with the existing powertrain line-up continuing unchanged, though the entire range has been updated to comply with the upcoming Euro 7 emission standards. The updated line-up retains both the six-cylinder diesel and the petrol V8. Among them is the 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 counter vibrations. In the S 580, this engine delivers 537hp and 750Nm. The six-cylinder petrol unit, now renamed the M256 Evo, has also been revised, receiving updates such as optimised intake and exhaust passages, a reprofiled 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 tighter emission norms. Plug-in hybrid versions have also been enhanced, with their electric-only driving range increased to around 100km from the earlier 75km.

All engines continue to be supported by a 48V mild-hybrid system paired with a 17kW integrated starter generator. Mercedes says that this system has been further refined to deliver earlier boost assistance and smoother transitions between coasting and engine-driven operation. For India, the line-up is expected to be limited to the regular six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, with the V8 and plug-in hybrid variants unlikely to be introduced. Adaptive air suspension remains standard, with active self-levelling offered as an option. Rear-axle steering is now standard at 4.5 degrees, while the 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 armoured Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC. The GUARD 4MATIC uses the brand’s in-house Integrated Protection System (iSS), which combines a purpose-built protective cell with a discreet aluminium exterior, along with a reworked chassis. This setup enables the vehicle to meet VR10 standards, the highest level of civilian ballistic protection. Mercedes says that the armoured passenger compartment has been tested using biofidelic dummies designed to simulate human physical characteristics closely. This variant will get a much 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 striking, bigger front grille featuring chrome star inserts within the slats and a subtly 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, offering higher illumination and Mercedes says it offers 40 per cent improved illumination and also features an ultra-range high beam with a reach of up to 600 metres.

On the sides, the changes are minimal and feature new alloy wheel designs, including intricate 50-spoke options produced using a high-pressure casting process, and the addition of new exterior paint shades, several sourced from the Manufaktur range. The car also gains a higher number of sensors – comprising cameras, radars and ultrasonic units to support upgraded driver assistance systems. At the rear, the key update is a set of slimmer tail-lamps that now feature three-pointed star LED elements, similar to those seen on the latest E-Class.2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Interior and featuresMoving inside, the updated S-Class features a gloss black panel housing three displays, referred to by Mercedes as the Superscreen. While the 12.3-inch driver and front passenger screens remain in their usual positions, the centrepiece is a 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-driven features, cloud connectivity, Google Maps-based navigation and vehicle-to-everything functions.

The rear passengers continue to get two 13.1-inch entertainment touchscreens, while the central rear control tablet has been replaced by 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 powered vents that can be adjusted digitally or manually.

Most functions needed to be accessed via the touchscreen and a slim row of capacitive shortcuts. It also gets facial recognition through a dashboard-mounted camera that also supports video calls and cabin monitoring. Rear-seat changes are minimal, with the long-wheelbase version continuing to offer up to 43 degrees of recline, heating, ventilation, massage functions, an optional four-seat configuration and high levels of comfort.