This is what 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will look like
What's the story
The current-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which debuted over five years ago, is due for a mid-cycle facelift. Now, we have an update ahead of the car's alleged unveiling next month. The refreshed model was recently spotted with a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, hinting at its upcoming autonomous driving capabilities. It will come with a Level 4-certified autonomous driving system, developed in partnership with Momenta.
Tech upgrade
S-Class to feature Level 4 autonomous driving
The autonomous driving system in the 2026 S-Class will be used for a driverless shuttle service, starting in Abu Dhabi and expanding to other locations later. However, customer cars are likely to lose the roof-mounted LiDAR and side cameras on front fenders for aesthetic reasons.
Design
S-Class's design to feature starry theme
The lightly disguised prototype of the 2026 S-Class comes with new headlights, mostly uncovered, that flaunt a flashy starry theme. We expect the new taillights to feature the Mercedes logo, in line with recent models showing an almost comical number of stars. Major changes are expected on the luxury sedan.
Engine specifications
Mercedes's commitment to V12 engine
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius has said that the company has "invested a lot more" in this facelift than usual. While technical specifications are still under wraps, we can confirm that the V12 engine will be retained for the high-end Maybach variant. This is especially hopeful considering Europe's increasingly stringent emissions regulations.
Interiors
S-Class's interior to feature large displays
Despite facing criticism for its screen-heavy design when it debuted in 2020, the S-Class is unlikely to opt for physical buttons and smaller displays. Chief designer Gorden Wagener recently stressed on the need for large screens in modern cars. The next-generation model is likely to borrow from EQS's dashboard design by placing all screens under a single glass panel.
Model merger
S-Class and EQS to merge into single model line
Mercedes has confirmed that the S-Class and EQS will merge into a single model line with the next-generation S-Class. This means that the EQS will be discontinued after one generation and replaced by a new car called S-Class with EQ Technology. The electric sedan will ditch its aerodynamic design for styling cues from the combustion-engine model, but this transition won't happen until W224 arrives.