The heavily upgraded one Mercedes-Benz S-Class has made its world debut, five years after the German automaker’s current W223 series flagship sedan was launched in 2020.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the 2026 S-Class represents the most comprehensive mid-cycle update in the model’s history. More than 50 percent of the extra-large luxury sedan (around 2,700 components) have been redeveloped, updated or refined to better compete with competitors such as the BMW 7 Series and Porsche Panamera.
Key highlights of the latest S-Class, which launches in Australia in the fourth quarter of this year, include an optional illuminated three-pointed star emblem on the bonnet, a 20 percent larger illuminated grille and new Twin Star Digital Light headlights with Micro LED technology, providing a preview of the brand’s next-generation lighting signature.
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The existing S-Class found 80 new homes in Australia in 2025 (when it was only surpassed by the Panamera with 82 sales), but the flagship sedan’s local popularity has declined significantly since 2000, when the then-new W220 S-Class attracted 660 buyers.
The decline in the sedan segment is due to the mass migration of traditional sedan buyers to equivalent luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, which found 685 buyers in 2025, while its BMW X7 competitor recorded 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 intended to offer sedan-like premium luxury and comfort as well as the space and versatility of an extra-large station wagon.
However, Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson Monika Paikert said the VLE had not yet been confirmed for our market, stressing that the model “remains the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz portfolio and a central expression of our brand”, even though S-Class sales have only reached a fraction of their previous levels.
“While customer preferences may be shifting towards SUVs in general, we see continued demand for the S-Class, with Australian sales increasing year-on-year in 2025,” Ms Paikert said. “This underlines that the luxury sedan remains extremely relevant and desirable in our offering.
“With the introduction of the Manufaktur Exclusive Program for the S-Class last year, we are also seeing demand from customers who value individuality and individuality.”
Visually, the updated S-Class retains the stately elegance of its predecessor – in contrast to the sci-fi kick of the BMW i7 – with extensive cosmetic improvements that improve on the already successful design recipe.
The larger illuminated radiator grille, decorated with three-dimensional chrome stars, becomes part of the S-Class’s lighting signature and makes its identity unmistakable even at night.
The new “Digital Light” double star headlight design further differentiates itself from the previous model and at the same time improves visibility. At the rear, newly designed taillights with three chrome-framed signature stars underline the identity of the new S-Class.
For additional differentiation, a light projector integrated into the side sill panels projects the “Mercedes-Benz” logo onto the ground next to the vehicle, making every entry and exit an individual experience.
Mercedes-Benz says the innovative micro-LED technology in its new Digital Light system expands the headlights’ high-resolution illumination field by approximately 40 percent, providing brighter high beam penetration while reducing energy consumption compared to the previous S-Class.
The dynamic Ultra Range high beam system – with a range of up to 600 meters or about six football fields – now swivels for optimal coverage, while its partial high beam function improves detection of poorly lit road users without dazzling others.
Using camera data and map intelligence, the cornering light function adapts more precisely to the course of the road thanks to in-house software that is integrated into the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS).
The latest S-Class also presents optional new 20-inch light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design, which are manufactured using innovative high-pressure casting technology.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the new multi-spoke rims are characterized by sharper contours, reduced thickness and a striking 50-cross-spoke design. They are painted in Tremolit Metallic high-gloss and are intended to provide further visual differentiation from the previous S-Class.
The new S-Class range for Australia will be announced closer to launch, but it’s likely to once again include 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 mild-hybrid petrol engine, as well as the long-wheelbase S580L 4Matic, which has plenty of grunt 393kW (+23kW) and 750Nm (+50Nm) from its 4.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V8.
As before, both engines are connected to Merc’s 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Thanks to the standard Airmatic air suspension and the optional E-Active Body Control with intelligent damping, the magic carpet ride should continue to be a trademark of the S-Class.
Low-speed agility and high-speed stability are increased by a rear axle steering system that can turn the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees or optionally up to 10 degrees to maximize maneuverability in tight parking spaces.
Of course, safety remains a hallmark of the S-Class and an enhanced adaptive restraint system includes Pre-Safe Impulse pretensioners and up to 15 airbags. However, rear-seat comfort and opulence is arguably what the S-Class is really about, and Mercedes-Benz has upped the ante in this area too.
As before, buyers can choose between the standard-length S-Class and the long-wheelbase model, which transforms the rear of the vehicle into a business lounge thanks to elaborately shaped seats and numerous premium amenities.
A full-length rear center console keeps everything within easy reach: concealed storage with wireless and fast-charging USB-C ports for mobile devices, as well as a refrigerator compartment and temperature-controlled cup holders.
Folding tables create a comfortable space for working on a laptop, signing documents, or enjoying a meal on the go. Those who prefer to travel in the rear can also choose from new decors for the rear center console, which provide a further touch of individual exclusivity.
The two new removable MBUX remote controls in the rear enable easy operation of vehicle functions such as air conditioning and window blinds as well as the larger 13.1-inch displays of the MBUX high-end rear seat entertainment system.
These screens also feature built-in HD cameras, making them ideal for business video conferencing via Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Webex, allowing residents to join a video meeting and stay productive while traveling in style.
The German brand’s continuously growing app portfolio now includes video streaming platforms such as Disney+ and RIDEVU from Sony Pictures Entertainment for both front and rear passengers.
The S-Class is optionally offered with two Burmester surround sound systems: the Burmester 3D surround sound system and the Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos – both transform the interior into an immersive sound experience that is not only audible, but also noticeable.
A highlight of the latest thermal comfort package is the innovative heated seat belt. With temperatures up to 44°C, it offers passengers a warming hug and turns cold mornings into moments of pure comfort.
Mercedes-Benz can be activated using the seat heating button and, according to Mercedes-Benz, works best without bulky jackets for optimal belt fit and safety. The company says it’s a small detail that makes a big difference and ensures every trip starts with a feeling of well-being.
The S-Class also takes a significant step forward in terms of climate comfort with the new Digital Vent Control function and an advanced electrostatic filter. Optional illuminated air vents automatically adapt to the selected ventilation scenario, while the new electric filter ionizes and removes even the finest particles from the cabin.
The driver and passenger interface features the MBUX Superscreen and the latest generation Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which includes the AI-based virtual assistant “Hey Mercedes” with natural dialogue, an improved zero-layer interface and MBUX Surround Navigation based on Google Maps.
MB.OS connects all systems into an intelligent ecosystem and is the basis for the semi-autonomous driving systems MBUX Infotainment and MB.Drive. By connecting to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, over-the-air software updates for numerous vehicle functions are possible, so that the S-Class can be kept digitally up to date throughout its life.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the updated MB.DRIVE driving and parking assistance systems are enhanced with advanced sensor technology and a powerful new computer architecture to enable next-generation assistance.
The MB.Drive parking assistant detects parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle and enables diagonal parking for the first time. It also recognizes rooms that are not just marked by white lines.
In particular, the car can now help you get out of a parking space after a manual parking maneuver and should also park faster than before.
Buyers also have more leeway when it comes to customizing their S-Class, as the manufacturer’s customization program offers a wealth of exclusive paint finishes, luxurious leather packages and exquisite handcrafted details.
For anyone who wants even more individuality, the newly launched “Manufacture Made to Measure” program offers the opportunity to create a truly unique piece from more than 150 paint colors and over 400 interior colors for the new S-Class.
Other equipment options include illuminated door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering, various steering wheel variants and emblem packages.
Inquiries that go beyond this portfolio are individually assessed by the Made to Measure team as part of a personal consultation, either at the Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen, Germany or at a location of the customer’s choice.
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