2026 S-Class: Mercedes-Benz refines its flagship luxury saloon
2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class enters the digital age but did it lose its soul
Mercedes-Benz is celebrating its 140th anniversary the only way it knows how, by launching a vehicle that highlights the brand's continued innovation. What better way to commemorate 140 years of building cars than by debuting its refreshed flagship saloon?
Say Guten Tag to the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and it gets plenty of exterior and interior upgrades. Beginning with the exterior changes, the automaker decided to apply its signature three-pointed star logo across the vehicle. Like what we saw from yesterday's leak, the 2026 S-Class now comes with three-pointed star design motifs on the LED headlights, the LED taillights, and the illuminated grille. The result is a more dashing look that highlights the S-Class's long-storied heritage.
Also present on the new S-Class is a bigger grille that's complemented by a sportier front bumper. While some may find the combination a bit too aggressive, the updated front fascia still looks stately and sophisticated. When it comes to exterior trim, customers can choose from gloss black or shiny metal accents, depending on what clients prefer. Like before, the S-Class can be optioned with the AMG Line exterior kit that gives the S-Class sportier bumpers and massive AMG wheels that are available up to 21 inches.
Open the doors, and the 2026 S-Class trades tradition for new-age technology. It's a huge departure for the 2026 S-Class, which now comes with massive high-resolution displays. The driver and front passenger get a 12.3-inch digital cluster, while the center dashboard comes with an MBUX 14.4-inch touchscreen infotainment display. While it's great for technophiles, those who are used to traditional buttons and switches may find the interior too alien for their tastes.
Speaking of tech, the 2026 S-Class also comes with digital vent control for both the front and rear passengers. While it's a nice novelty to have, Mercedes-Benz could have used something simpler. On the flipside, however, the digital vent controls can automatically adapt the position of the vents, depending on what the customer prefers.
Like all luxury sedans, the best seats in the house (in this case, the car) are located in the back. The 2026 S-Class gets an upgraded rear entertainment system, which consists of bigger 13.1-inch displays, detachable remotes for the entertainment system, and onboard cameras that allow for online meetings with ease. Other available amenities include ottomans for extra comfort, a massage function for a more relaxing ride, LED ambient lighting, and even a folding table that can hold items with ease.
Audiophiles will also be happy to hear that the 2026 S-Class will come with a Burmester 3D surround sound system. However, an optional 4D surround sound system that has up to 39 speakers, making it a mobile sound theater.
When it comes to engine options, customers of the 2026 S-Class are spoiled for choice. First up is the S 450, which gets a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six that puts out 381 PS and 560 Nm of torque. Those who prefer a bit more oomph can get the more powerful S 500. It's also a turbocharged inline-six but makes more power with 449 PS and 600 Nm of torque on tap.
Those who still prefer a turbo-diesel under the hood can get the S 350d 4Matic that makes 313 PS with 650 Nm of torque and the more powerful S 450d 4Matic, which generates 367 PS and a staggering 750 Nm of torque.
V8 fanatics will not be disappointed, as the 2026 S-Class gets a new flat-plane V8 engine via the S 580 4Matic. It gets a mild-hybrid, twin-turbo 4.0L V8 that pumps out 537 PS and 750 Nm of torque that's accessible as early as 2500 rpm. Besides having a flat-plane crankshaft, the V8 engine also benefits from revised turbocharger housings and an upgraded fuel injection system to deliver better response, improved efficiency, and a more refined performance.
Plug-in hybrid options for the 2026 S-Class are also available, which start with the S 450e that packs a 3.0L turbo inline-six, an electric motor, and a 22 kWh battery pack. It puts out a combined 425 PS with 680 Nm of torque and has an electric range of up to 118 km. There's also the more powerful S580e, which gets the same powertrain setup, but generates 585 PS and 750 Nm of torque. Its EV range, however, is slightly down at just 103 km.
With the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class officially revealed, we can expect the flagship luxury sedan to make its way here, perhaps sometime in late 2026 or next year.
