Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift Adds Flat-Plane V8, Over 50% New Hardware

Mercedes-Benz has given the S-Class its most comprehensive update yet, with over 50% of its parts new or re-engineered. The timeless design is still there, but the facelift gets striking visual updates that emphasise its ‘Star’ heritage. While an official India launch has yet to be confirmed, the updated S-Class is expected to arrive by late 2026 or early 2027. Here’s everything you need to know about the revised flagship sedan.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift: Design

In terms of appearance, the most prominent change on the S-Class is the grille, which is around 20 per cent larger, adorned with newly-designed three-dimensional chrome stars. Lighting plays a key role in the facelift, with star-shaped LED elements integrated into the headlamps and taillamps. The Mercedes-Benz limousine also gets the illuminated bonnet-mounted emblem. The new S-Class introduces an upgraded Digital Light system with sharper, longer-range illumination and smarter beam control, enhancing night-time visibility while improving efficiency. Mercedes-Benz expands Manufaktur customisation for the S-Class, offering new premium colours and near-limitless options to create a truly bespoke luxury sedan.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift: Interior

The updated S-Class features Mercedes’ MBUX Superscreen, a layout inspired by the electric EQS. The dashboard is now a continuous glass surface integrating three separate displays: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 14.4-inch central touchscreen, and a dedicated 12.3-inch passenger display. At the heart of the S-Class’s tech is the all-new MB.OS, Mercedes-Benz’s proprietary operating system. Built entirely in-house, it brings a software-first approach to the cabin, featuring a conversational virtual assistant powered by Generative AI from Google Gemini and ChatGPT-4o.

Also Read: Upcoming Cars in February 2026: MG Majestor, BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro

Rear passengers benefit from upgraded 13.1-inch entertainment screens, complete with HD cameras for high-quality video calls, turning the back seat into a fully connected workspace or media hub.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift: Engine

Mercedes has performed a mechanical reset under the hood. The 4.0‑litre V8 M 177 Evo in the S 580 4MATIC produces 530bhp and 750Nm, with a flat-plane crank, mild-hybrid boost, optimized ports, and enhanced turbocharging for swift, smooth delivery. The six-cylinder M 256 Evo petrol in the S 450/S 500 now delivers 600Nm (640Nm with overtorque) and features an electric auxiliary compressor and revised camshafts. Plug-in hybrid variants extend EV range to 100 kilometres and add up to 55 kW of system output. Diesel OM 656 Evo engines include an electrically heated catalytic converter and advanced durability features. All engines integrate a 17 kW starter-generator and a 48‑volt system, enabling coasting, boost, recuperation, and imperceptible start-stop for smooth, efficient driving.