The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has always been the boundary-pushing model in the automaker’s catalog. Its ultra-rich price tag buys the best tech available, and it appears the car is about to get a significant update that will bring even more “new stuff.”
We already know Mercedes is brewing an all-new S-Class for release in a few years, but the current car is due for a midcycle refresh. That will happen in 2026, with company executives saying it was investing much more heavily in the update than it typically does for non-generational changes.
Mercedes is on quite a roll with new vehicles this year, as the updated CLA recently landed, and new versions of the GLC SUV and C-Class cars due soon. While it’s focused on new electric models, the automaker isn’t ditching gas, as the S-Class will retain internal combustion power, and AMG still offers V8s in some cars. That said, the latest C 63’s wildly complicated four-cylinder powertrain hasn’t wowed buyers. The new powertrains will also likely comply with upcoming changes to European and Asian emissions rules.
The S-Class never sold in high-volume numbers, but its modest sales numbers tumbled in 2024. Mercedes’ plan to retain gas engines is likely a smart move, as buyers have proven to be fickle when it comes to high-priced EVs, especially with performance models like those made and tuned by AMG.
[Images: Mercedes-Benz]
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