The heavily upgraded Mercedes-Benz S-Class has made its world debut, five years after the German automaker’s current W223-series flagship sedan debuted in 2020, and the headline acts are a new look and a new V8.
Mercedes-Benz says the 2026 S-Class represents the most comprehensive mid-cycle update in the model’s history, with more than 50 per cent of the extra-large luxury limousine (around 2700 components) being newly developed, updated or refined to better compete with rivals including the BMW 7 Series and Porsche Panamera.
The big news is a brand-new petrol V8 codenamed M177 Evo – a 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine produced by AMG, which features a flat-plane crank to improve refinement, response and operating efficiency, and 48V mild-hybrid technology comprising a 17kW starter-generator to support an idle stop/start system.
In the new S580 – the first flat-plane V8-powered Mercedes-Benz since the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series – it produces 393kW of power (up 23kW on the M176 engine it replaces) and 750Nm (+50Nm) over 2500-4500rpm, but returns the same combined fuel consumption of 10.6L/100km.
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Other key highlights of the latest S-Class, which arrives in Australia in the fourth quarter of this year, include an optionally illuminated three-pointed star emblem on the bonnet, a 20 per cent larger illuminated grille, and new twin-star Digital Light headlights with micro-LED technology, which preview the brand’s next-generation lighting signature.
The existing S-Class found 80 new homes in Australia in 2025 (when it was outsold by only the Panamera with 82 sales), but the flagship sedan’s local popularity has declined considerably since 2000, when the then-new W220 S-Class attracted 660 buyers.
Shrinkage of the limo segment is attributable to the mass exodus of traditional sedan buyers to equivalent luxury SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLS, which found 685 buyers in 2025, while its BMW X7 rival totted up 1125 sales.
The latest S-Class will also face friendly fire in some markets from Mercedes-Benz’s own upcoming VLE electric people mover, which is expected to serve up limo-like first-class luxury and comfort, along with the space and versatility of an extra-large wagon.
That said, Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson Monika Paikert said that for now the VLE remains unconfirmed for our market and emphasised that, even though S-Class sales are now a fraction of what they used to be, the model “remains the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz portfolio and a core expression of our brand”.
“While in general customer preferences may shift towards SUVs, we are seeing sustained demand for the S-Class with sales in Australia increasing in 2025 compared to the previous year,” said Ms Paikert. “This reinforces that the luxury sedan remains highly relevant and desirable within our lineup.
“With the introduction of the Manufaktur Exclusive program on the S-Class last year, we also see demand from customers who value customisation and individuality.”
Visually, the updated S-Class retains the stately elegance of its predecessor – in contrast to the sci-fi edginess of the BMW i7 – with extensive cosmetic tweaks enhancing what was already a well-resolved design recipe.
The bigger illuminated grille, adorned by three-dimensional chrome stars, becomes part of the S-Class lighting signature, making its identity unmistakable at night.
Meanwhile, the new Digital Light twin-star headlight design adds further differentiation from the outgoing model while also enhancing visibility. At the rear, newly designed tail-lights with three chrome-framed signature stars reinforce the new S-Class identity.
For added distinction, an integrated light projector in the side sill trims casts ‘Mercedes-Benz’ lettering onto the ground next to the car, turning every entry and exit into a bespoke experience.
Mercedes-Benz claims its new Digital Light system’s innovative micro-LED technology expands the high-resolution illumination field of the headlights by approximately 40 per cent, delivering brighter high-beam penetration while reducing energy consumption compared with the outgoing S-Class.
The dynamic Ultra Range high-beam system – with a reach of up to 600 metres or roughly six soccer fields – now swivels for optimal coverage, while its partial high-beam function improves detection of poorly lit road users without dazzling others.
Employing camera data and map intelligence, the cornering light function adapts more precisely to road layouts thanks to in-house software integrated into the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS).
The latest S-Class also debuts optional new 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, crafted using innovative high-pressure casting technology.
Mercedes-Benz claims the new multi-spoke rims are distinguished by their sharper contours, reduced thickness and a striking 50-cross-spoke design. Finished in Tremolit Metallic High Sheen, they aim to add further visual differentiation from the outgoing S-Class.
The new S-Class model range for Australia will be announced closer to launch, but it’s likely to once again comprise the S450 4Matic, which will offer 280kW of power (up 10kW) and 560Nm of torque (up 60Nm) from its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine, and the long-wheelbase S580L 4Matic powered by the new V8.
As before, both engines are hooked up to Merc’s 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
A magic-carpet ride should continue to be an S-Class hallmark, thanks to standard Airmatic air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control with intelligent damping.
Low-speed agility and high-speed stability are boosted by a rear-axle steering system that can turn the rear wheels by up to 4.5 degrees, or optionally by up to 10 degrees to maximise manoeuvrability in tight car parks.
Of course, safety remains an S-Class hallmark and an enhanced adaptive restraint system includes Pre-Safe Impulse seatbelt pretensioners and up to 15 airbags. However, back-seat comfort and opulence are arguably what the S-Class is truly about, and Mercedes-Benz has upped the ante in this domain too.
As before, buyers can choose between the standard-length S-Class and the long-wheelbase model, which turns the rear of the vehicle into a business lounge, thanks to exquisitely sculpted seats and a raft of premium amenities.
A full-length rear centre console keeps everything within easy reach: concealed storage with wireless and fast-charging USB-C ports for mobile devices, plus a refrigerated compartment and temperature-controlled cupholders.
Folding tables create a comfortable space for working on a laptop, signing documents or enjoying a meal on the move. Those who prefer to travel in the rear can also choose from new trim finishes for the rear centre console, adding a further touch of personalised exclusivity.
The two new detachable MBUX remote controls in the rear provide easy operation of vehicle functions such as climate control and window shades, as well as the larger 13.1-inch displays of the MBUX high-end Rear Seat Entertainment System.
These screens also feature integrated HD cameras, making them ideal for business video conferencing via Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Webex, allowing occupants to join a video meeting and stay productive while travelling in style.
For both front and rear occupants, the German brand’s continuously expanding app portfolio now includes video streaming platforms such as Disney+ and RIDEVU by Sony Pictures Entertainment.
The S-Class is offered with a choice of two optional Burmester surround sound systems: the Burmester 3D surround sound system and the Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos – both transforming the interior into an immersive sound experience that can be not only heard but also felt.
A highlight of the latest thermal comfort package is the innovative heated seat belt. Offering temperatures of up to 44°C, it delivers a warming embrace for front passengers – transforming cold mornings into moments of pure comfort.
Activated via the seat heating button, Mercedes-Benz says it operates best without bulky jackets for optimal belt fit and safety. The company says it’s a small detail that makes a big difference, ensuring every journey begins with a sense of well-being.
The S-Class also takes a significant step forward in climate comfort with its new Digital Vent Control function and an advanced electric filter. Optional illuminated air vents automatically adjust to the selected ventilation scenario, while the new electric filter ionises and removes even extremely fine particles from the cabin.
The driver and front passenger interface are treated to the MBUX Superscreen and latest-generation Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which includes the AI‑based “Hey Mercedes” Virtual Assistant with natural dialogue, an enhanced Zero Layer interface, and MBUX Surround Navigation based on Google Maps.
MB.OS connects all systems into one intelligent ecosystem and is the basis for the MBUX infotainment and MB.Drive semi-autonomous driving systems. Its connection to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud enables over-the-air software updates for numerous vehicle functions, allowing the S-Class to be kept digitally up to date throughout its life.
Mercedes-Benz says the updated MB.DRIVE driving and parking assistance systems are improved via extended sensor technology and a powerful new computer architecture to enable next-generation assistance.
MB.Drive Parking Assist detects parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle and enables angled parking for the first time. It also recognises spaces not marked solely by white lines.
Notably, the car can now assist in exiting a parking space, even after a manual parking manoeuvre, and is also now said to park faster than before.
There’s greater scope for buyers to personalise their S-Class too, as the Manufaktur customisation program offers a plethora of exclusive paint finishes, luxurious leather packages, and exquisite handcrafted details.
For those seeking even more individuality, the newly launched Manufaktur Made to Measure program enables customers to create a genuine one-off vehicle by choosing from more than 150 paint colours and over 400 interior colours for the new S-Class.
Additional equipment options include illuminated door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering, a range of steering wheel variants, and emblem packages.
Requests that extend beyond this portfolio are evaluated individually by the Manufaktur Made to Measure team during a personalised consultation, either at the Centre of Excellence in Sindelfingen, Germany or at a location of the customer’s choice.