Mercedes-Benz has revealed the comprehensively updated S-Class, marking the most significant refresh within a single generation of its flagship luxury sedan. The update commemorates 140 years since Carl Benz invented the automobile in 1886 and includes more than 2,700 newly developed or re-engineered components.
The exterior receives bold updates, led by a 20% larger illuminated grille and, for the first time, an optionally illuminated Mercedes star on the bonnet. New twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps with micro-LED technology provide around 40% more illumination while reducing energy consumption. At the rear, redesigned taillights feature three chrome-framed star signatures.
Powering the new S-Class is MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System), a purpose-built supercomputer controlling all vehicle domains and enabling seamless over-the-air updates. The fourth-generation MBUX system introduces an AI-based virtual assistant powered by ChatGPT-4o and Google Gemini, enabling natural conversation and short-term memory functionality.
The MBUX Superscreen comes standard, combining a 14.4-inch central display with a 12.3-inch passenger screen under a continuous glass surface. Rear passengers benefit from an upgraded MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment system, now featuring 13.1-inch displays with integrated HD cameras, supporting video conferencing via Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Webex.
Driver assistance has been significantly enhanced with the MB.DRIVE suite, using 10 cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors. MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO enables point-to-point automated driving in dense urban traffic, initially launching in China, followed by the US and other markets subject to regulatory approvals.
Interior updates include a redesigned instrument panel, a new centre console with dual wireless charging, and illuminated cup holders. Comfort innovations extend to heated seat belts warming up to 44°C, Digital Vent Control with automatic airflow adjustment, and a new electric air filter that refreshes cabin air roughly every 90 seconds.
The powertrain lineup includes updated six- and eight-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, alongside plug-in hybrid variants offering up to 100 km of electric range. The new M 177 Evo V8 engine produces 395 kW (537 hp) and 750 Nm of torque.
Suspension options include AIRMATIC air suspension as standard and optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, both featuring predictive damping using Car-to-X data. Rear-axle steering is now standard at 4.5°, with an optional 10° setup reducing the turning circle by nearly two metres on long-wheelbase models.
Personalisation reaches new heights through the MANUFAKTUR Made-to-Measure programme, offering over 150 exterior and 400 interior colour options. Two new MANUFAKTUR finishes debut as standard: black sparkling with glass flakes and verdesilver magno matte.
Safety advancements include an adaptive restraint system with PRE-SAFE® Impulse belt pretensioners and up to 15 airbags. The armoured S 680 GUARD 4MATIC achieves VR10 certification, the highest civilian protection level, powered by a 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine.
Production begins at Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, with customer orders opening on 30 January 2026. In Germany, the S 350 d 4MATIC Saloon starts at €121,356.20, with leasing available from €1,020 per month for private customers.
