Sneak Peek: 2026 Mercedes S-Class Gets a Major Facelift
It’s hard to believe that more than five years have passed since Mercedes launched the current-generation W223 S-Class. But the time has come for a mid-cycle facelift, keeping the full-size luxury sedan fresh before its eventual replacement.
With the BMW 7 Series also getting an update, the 2026 Mercedes S-Class is set to receive key upgrades to stay competitive.
A More Futuristic Look for the 2026 Mercedes S-Class
Ahead of an alleged premiere next month, the updated S-Class is already showing off some of its new features. Mercedes has revealed a lightly disguised prototype with redesigned headlights featuring a flashy star-studded pattern.
We also expect the new taillights to follow the trend, incorporating the iconic Mercedes logo in a striking new way. One standout feature on the prototype is a roof-mounted LiDAR system, part of Mercedes’ push to implement Level 4 autonomous driving.
This partnership with Momenta, a Chinese AI firm, aims to roll out a driverless shuttle service in Abu Dhabi. While customer cars won’t feature these sensors, they show where Mercedes is taking the brand in the future.
What’s New Under the Hood and Inside?
Though the design tweaks seem modest, Mercedes is investing heavily in the 2026 Mercedes S-Class. The facelift is not just about looks. The V-12 engine will continue in the Maybach variant, despite stricter emissions regulations.
This engine option will remain a part of the lineup, offering the ultimate luxury performance. Inside the cabin, expect to see a continued emphasis on tech. Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius recently said the facelift would involve a significant investment, suggesting more advanced features inside.
The 2026 S-Class facelift will likely retain its massive digital screens, following the EQS’s trend. Although some critics may hope for a return to physical buttons, design chief Gorden Wagener has stated that large displays are a necessity for today’s customers.
The S-Class and the Future of Autonomous Mobility
In an exciting twist, the 2026 Mercedes S-Class is also set to play a key role in the future of autonomous driving. Mercedes is set to begin deployment of a fleet of autonomous S-Class models in Abu Dhabi as part of a new robotaxi service.
These vehicles will be equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving technology, with plans to expand into international markets. This move signals Mercedes’ commitment to blending luxury with cutting-edge technology.
It showcases how the 2026 Mercedes S-Class facelift will fit into both the retail luxury segment and the emerging mobility services market.
A Glimpse Into the Future of the S-Class
The 2026 S-Class facelift is just the beginning of a larger shift for Mercedes’ flagship sedan. As part of a broader strategy, the S-Class and the EQS will merge into a single model family. The future S-Class will incorporate electric technology under the same brand, with the EQS name eventually being phased out.
When the next-generation S-Class debuts in 2029 or 2030, expect it to take inspiration from the Vision Iconic concept. It will ditch the EQS’s ultra-aerodynamic design for a more traditional S-Class look.
Conclusion
The 2026 Mercedes S-Class facelift will keep the iconic sedan competitive against rivals like the BMW 7 Series. The upgrades, both inside and out, will ensure that the S-Class stays relevant in an increasingly tech-driven world.
With the addition of autonomous mobility, Mercedes is positioning the S-Class for a bright future in both luxury and innovation. What are your views on the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift? Let us know in the comments below. Keep following the Arabwheels Blog for more automotive updates like this.