Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2026 Facelift Prepares for Stuttgart Premiere
STUTTGART, 27 January 2026 – The automotive world’s eyes turn to Stuttgart as Mercedes-Benz prepares to unveil the facelifted S-Class on 29 January. The update to the flagship W223 model promises significant stylistic and technological revisions, cementing its position at the pinnacle of luxury sedans. This refresh builds upon a series of substantial updates introduced for the 2025 model year, which already enhanced the sedan’s autonomous driving capabilities and personalisation options.
The 2026 Update: A New Face and Digital Heart
Scheduled for a world premiere at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, the updated S-Class (W223) will introduce several key changes. Externally, the luxury saloon will feature redesigned headlights and taillights incorporating a new light signature that reproduces the Mercedes three-pointed star motif, a design cue first seen on newer EQ models. The radiator grille is slightly enlarged and may offer optional illumination, while the front and rear bumpers have been revised.
The most dramatic change occurs inside, where the current 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.9-inch portrait display are set to be replaced by the sweeping MBUX Hyperscreen from the EQS. This single-piece glass panel houses three integrated displays. The infotainment system will also debut Mercedes-Benz’s new in-house MB.OS software, which leverages Google services and artificial intelligence. The powertrain lineup, including six-cylinder diesel and petrol engines with 48V mild-hybrid technology, V8 units, and plug-in hybrid variants, is expected to carry over with potential refinements.
Building on the 2025 Foundation: Intelligence and Individuality
The 2026 model inherits and advances a suite of technologies launched for the 2025 S-Class. Most notably, the SAE Level 3 DRIVE PILOT system, which allows conditionally automated driving, had its operational speed limit increased to 95 km/h on German motorways (from 60 km/h), enabling longer periods of hands-free driving in traffic flow.
Mercedes also integrated ChatGPT into the MBUX voice assistant via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, making the ‘Hey Mercedes’ command more conversational and capable of answering complex queries. The personalisation programme, MANUFAKTUR, was globally expanded with over 50 new paint colours and 25 additional interior options, allowing for unprecedented customisation. A special S-Class Edition model, featuring an AMG Line package, exclusive paints, and bespoke interior details, was also introduced.
S-Class vs. 7 Series: The Luxury Sedan Benchmark
| Aspect | Mercedes-Benz S-Class | BMW 7 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Supreme comfort, passenger serenity, and technological innovation. | Driver engagement, sporty dynamics, and bold, tech-forward design. |
| Ride & Refinement | Often cited as best-in-class for its magic carpet-like air suspension and hushed cabin. | Firm and controlled, offering more feedback but can be less forgiving on poor surfaces. |
| Rear-Seat Experience | Unmatched luxury with available executive packages featuring reclining, massaging seats and extensive amenities. | Very spacious and tech-laden (e.g., 31-inch Theatre Screen) but ambiance is more modern than traditional luxury. |
| Technology Interface | MBUX Hyperscreen & MB.OS focused on ambient, intuitive control and AI learning. | BMW Curved Display & iDrive focused on crisp graphics and driver-centric operation. |
| Autonomous Driving | Leads with DRIVE PILOT, an approved SAE Level 3 system for conditional hands-free driving. | Advanced Level 2+ systems (e.g., Traffic Jam Assistant) but no certified Level 3 offering. |
| Starting Price (Germany, approx.) | €110,000 (S 500 4MATIC) | €105,000 (740i) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the facelifted 2026 S-Class go on sale?
Following its premiere on 29 January 2026, the updated S-Class is expected to be available for order immediately, with first deliveries commencing in the spring and summer of 2026.
What is the biggest technological change in the new model?
The introduction of the MBUX Hyperscreen and the new MB.OS operating system represents the core digital upgrade, creating a more immersive and AI-powered cabin experience.
How does the S-Class’s DRIVE PILOT compare to BMW’s systems?
Mercedes-Benz’s DRIVE PILOT is currently unique in being a legally certified SAE Level 3 system, meaning the car can take full control under certain conditions (e.g., highway traffic up to 95 km/h), and the driver is permitted to engage in other activities. BMW’s systems remain very capable Level 2+ assistants that require the driver’s constant supervision.
Which car is more reliable, the S-Class or the 7 Series?
Both vehicles are complex flagships with high maintenance costs. Industry reliability ratings are often close, but the S-Class has historically held a slight edge in perceived quality and long-term durability surveys, though this can vary by model year and specific powertrain.