2026 Mercedes S-Class Sporting An Evolutionary Design

The 2026 Mercedes S-Class has been spotted out on the streets once again, with spy photographers capturing its latest outing. Alongside the new images, we’ve learned that Mercedes has decided to delay the introduction of the facelift to extend the current model’s lifespan. Initially planned for a late 2024 debut, the refreshed S-Class is now expected to arrive either toward the end of 2025 or early 2026. If the latter timeline holds, it may launch as a 2027 model year.
 

The era of the flagship sedan might be over, but Mercedes is working on an updated S-Class. It can’t come soon enough as the model recently celebrated its fourth anniversary.
 
Caught undergoing testing, the prototypes are still under heavy disguised, but hint at significant changes. While they remain instantly recognizable, there are a handful of updates including an all-new grille. Although largely obscured by camouflage, the grille has increased in size and is taller than the one on the current model.
 

The grille is flanked by new headlights that incorporate three-pointed star graphics. These function as both daytime running lights as well as turn signals. Elsewhere, there’s a new front bumper with revised air intakes. The prototypes also appear to have camouflaged mirrors, which suggests they’ll be updated as well.
 
The rest of the design largely carries over, but we can see a lightly revised rear end with new taillights that feature star graphics. They’re joined by an evolutionary bumper. The S-Class may also incorporate some changes to the reflectors and exhaust.
 
Spy photographers didn’t get a look inside, but previous reports have suggested big changes are in store for the cabin. While nothing is official, the model is rumored to adopt an all-new dashboard that features a Hyperscreen display. The car is also slated to offer a front passenger screen, which is now in vogue.
 

Little else is known about the model at this point, but the current S-Class offers an assortment of engines including an turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six developing 442 hp (330 kW / 448 PS) and 413 lb-ft (559 Nm) of torque.
 
Customers can also get a 496 hp (370 kW / 503 PS) twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, a 621 hp (463 kW / 630 PS) twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain that has an electric-only range of 46 miles (74 km).