To celebrate the 140th anniversary of Carl Benz's invention of the automobile in 1886, the new S-Class presents itself as the ultimate icon. As the world's best-selling luxury sedan, it has been meticulously refined down to the last detail to ensure it remains the benchmark in its segment. More than just a flagship, the new S-Class embodies the essence of the brand: pioneering spirit, technical excellence, and craftsmanship – and that unmistakable feeling of "Welcome home."
The latest evolution of the S-Class undergoes its most extensive update within a generation, thus taking a leading role in the most ambitious product offensive in the history of Mercedes-Benz. With more than 50 percent new or revised components – that's around 2,700 parts – it reaffirms its tradition of combining the highest standards, engineering expertise, digital ambition, and technological progress.
From January 30, 2026, customers can configure and order the new S-Class online. The Mercedes-Benz S 350 d 4MATIC sedan is available at a list price starting from €121,356.20 including 19% VAT [4] . In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers attractive leasing and financing options, for example, with a monthly lease payment starting from €1,020.00 including VAT for private customers [5] . For business customers, this means a starting price of €101,980.00 excluding 19% VAT [6] .
The new S-Class underscores its status with a more striking silhouette and a grille that is approximately 20 percent larger and illuminated for the first time. This grille is accentuated by a newly designed, three-dimensional chrome star. For more than 100 years, the upright Mercedes star has crowned the hood as a symbol of brand heritage and pioneering spirit. Now a new era begins: For the first time in a production model, the Mercedes star of the S-Class is optionally self-illuminating [8] – becoming an unmistakable part of the S-Class's light signature and giving the sedan an even more radiant presence at night. The modern lighting design exudes prestige in its most beautiful form and makes every arrival – whether for a grand entrance or simply upon returning home – an unforgettable moment.
The new DIGITAL LIGHT twin-star headlamp design not only provides an iconic look day and night, but also improves visibility and helps the driver feel safer on every road. At the rear, redesigned taillights with three chrome signature stars reinforce the S-Class identity and leave a lasting impression. For added exclusivity, an integrated light projector in the side sill panel projects the word “Mercedes-Benz” [9] onto the ground next to the vehicle, welcoming passengers and making every entry and exit a special moment.
The new S-Class enhances visibility and safety with the new DIGITAL LIGHT system. Innovative micro-LED technology and a powerful new chip expand the high-resolution illumination field by approximately 40 percent, enabling brighter high beams. At the same time, energy consumption is reduced compared to the previous system. The dynamic ULTRA RANGE high beam – with a range of up to 600 meters, equivalent to about six football fields – can now swivel for optimal illumination. The partial high beam function improves the detection of poorly lit road users without dazzling others. In combination with camera data and map intelligence, the active curve illumination adapts even more precisely to the road's curvature – all supported by in-house software integrated into the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) for faster adaptation. From the candle lanterns of Gottlieb Daimler's motor carriage in 1886 to today's DIGITAL LIGHT, Mercedes-Benz has illuminated every era of automotive history – and in the new S-Class, this know-how makes night driving an intelligent mix of safety and comfort.
The MANUFAKTUR program offers an unprecedented level of personalization with exclusive paint finishes, luxurious leather packages, and exquisite, handcrafted details. Two new MANUFAKTUR colors are now available as standard: MANUFAKTUR black sparkling, featuring real glass flakes for a striking shimmer, and MANUFAKTUR verdesilber magno, which gives the popular Verdesilber tone a sophisticated matte finish.
For customers seeking the ultimate in individuality, the newly introduced MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure program offers the opportunity to create a bespoke vehicle. For the new S-Class, customers can choose from more than 150 paint colors and over 400 interior colors. Additional equipment options include illuminated door sills with brand lettering, numerous steering wheel variants, and emblem packages. The program offers a wide selection of pre-approved options with fixed prices and immediate confirmation of feasibility. It even allows for the representation of the entire spectrum of technically achievable colors, providing unparalleled design possibilities for both the exterior and interior. For requests exceeding this portfolio, the experts at MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure will individually assess your requirements during a personal consultation, either at the Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen or at a location of your choice. The personalized vehicle is brought to life using an immersive visualization tool, allowing customers to select colors and design elements that precisely reflect their individual taste.
The new S-Class puts the latest Mercedes-Benz technology front and center. At its heart is the specially developed Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which runs on a new, service-oriented electrical and electronic architecture. This intuitive supercomputer supports every area – from driver assistance and infotainment to driving performance. It offers faster processing, greater computing power, and a more deeply integrated user experience than previous systems. MB.OS connects all systems into an intelligent ecosystem and forms the basis for MB.DRIVE and MBUX. Connectivity to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud enables over-the-air updates [10] for numerous vehicle functions, ensuring the S-Class remains digitally up-to-date and attractive throughout its entire lifespan. The result: The new S-Class becomes an intuitive companion, offering seamless interaction, exceptional performance, and future-proof intelligence – creating a driving experience that is smarter, safer, and more personal than ever before.
The new S-Class models are equipped with a new, water-cooled supercomputer. It has ample performance reserves for future driver assistance functions. For optimal driver assistance, each model is equipped with a multitude of sensors: ten external cameras, five radar sensors, and twelve ultrasonic sensors. These sensors work together with a high-performance control unit that uses MB.OS as its central software platform. Artificial intelligence algorithms, trained on large amounts of fleet data, process the sensor data to precisely assess the surrounding traffic situation.
In the new S-Class, MB.DRIVE ASSIST is standard equipment, with features such as DISTRONIC distance assist with steering assist and lane change assist. Evasive steering function Plus, which autonomously steers around objects or other vehicles within the lane to avoid collisions, is included as a safety feature in the new S-Class. For additional support on highways, the Proactive Lane Change Assist offers automated lane changes. MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO offers extended assistance functions, [11] such as automatic braking at stop signs and traffic lights. Some features are country-specific and, depending on the market, are available either as factory-installed options or as a Digital Extra [12] via the Mercedes-Benz Store.
MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO also enables a seamless and safe point-to-point driving experience – even in dense city traffic. The feature will be available in China from launch. It will follow later in the USA, while other markets, such as Europe, will receive this feature as soon as regulations permit.
The MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST [13] detects parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle at a particularly early stage and, for the first time, also enables angled parking. The system also recognizes free spaces that are not only marked by white lines. In addition, the S-Class can now assist when exiting a parking space – even if it was previously parked manually. Furthermore, the system can park quickly, which represents a significant added value for customers. The reversing maneuvering function will first be available in China. Under certain conditions, it is possible to reverse a portion of the last driven forward route with assistance. While this assistant is active, the image from the reversing camera and a graphic representation of the planned route are displayed on the main screen. This is particularly useful in traffic situations where a U-turn is not possible.
MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST 360 [13] offers new and improved surround views with its 360-degree camera and a new UI. When maneuvering, a distance warning is displayed in the top-down view to help the driver prevent damage to the wheels. The Digital Extra Rim Protection Warning will be available later in the new S-Class.
Powered by MB.OS, the fourth generation of the MBUX infotainment system arrives in the S-Class. It integrates artificial intelligence (AI) from ChatGPT-4o and Microsoft Bing, as well as Google Gemini, and combines multiple AI agents in a single system for the first time. With generative AI, the new MBUX Virtual Assistant “Hey Mercedes” [14] revolutionizes the relationship between the vehicle and passengers in every seat. Customers experience a more intuitive, personalized digital companion with generative AI. This includes multi-stage dialogues, similar to those you might have with a friend, and short-term memory. The MBUX Virtual Assistant appears as a living avatar on the MBUX Zero Layer user interface, with dynamic colors and animations, as well as two new avatar designs: a humanoid figure and “LittleBenz” for a stronger emotional connection.
The further improved MBUX Zero Layer displays recently used apps, customizable folders, and intuitive swipe navigation, making the system even more intuitive to use. Thanks to the latest generation of MBUX, more than 40 apps [15] can be installed in categories such as audio, video, productivity, and entertainment – and the portfolio is constantly expanding.
A new display concept: As standard, the MBUX Superscreen combines the 36.6 cm central display and the 31.2 cm passenger display under a single, continuous glass surface, creating a sculptural visual unit. While the driver benefits from clear and focused information, the passenger can enjoy a personalized entertainment experience during the journey – for example, through streaming, games, or apps – provided this complies with country-specific regulations. A camera-based privacy function discreetly adjusts the passenger screen to minimize driver distraction. The optional 31.2 cm instrument cluster, available in 3D, appears to float behind the steering wheel with impressive clarity. High-resolution ambient designs and visual modes curated by Mercedes-Benz UI designers transform the MBUX Superscreen into an immersive, atmospheric digital space that makes every journey a special experience.
In the new S-Class, MB.OS enables a navigation experience based on Google Maps. Developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz, this navigation solution is also one of the first integrations of Google Cloud's new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle conversational services in conjunction with Google Maps. The new Automotive AI Agent from Google Cloud has been integrated with Google Maps within the vehicle. Visual interaction also reaches a new dimension with MBUX Surround Navigation: supported by cameras and sensors, it displays a 3D map of the surroundings in real time on the instrument cluster. Drivers benefit from enhanced situational awareness, as they can see what the S-Class sees and how the assistance systems are supporting them, making every journey feel informed, supported, and confident. This is complemented by the MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display, which projects important navigation instructions such as arrows, lane guidance, and points of interest seemingly directly onto the road. This intuitive visual support helps the driver to anticipate and more easily manage complex driving maneuvers, thus increasing confidence and comfort – especially in unfamiliar cities or in heavy urban traffic.
MBUX Notes and MBUX Calendar take productivity on the go to a new level. Imagine preparing for an important meeting while you're out and about: simply dictate your thoughts, and MBUX Notes – powered by AI – summarizes and structures them into clear bullet points. This works in multiple languages. Your ideas can then be shared via Gmail or Outlook, or synced with OneNote for further editing. Thanks to robust data protection and no permanent storage by third parties, your notes remain secure while you stay perfectly prepared.
In the new S-Class, every journey becomes an experience of first-class comfort and serene elegance. The brand promise “Welcome home.” is palpable in every detail, as Mercedes-Benz has refined the interior in numerous areas, creating a space where technology and craftsmanship converge. The redesigned instrument panel with the MBUX Superscreen integrates seamlessly into the overall cockpit. New, elegant door panels and a redesigned center console showcase exquisite wood inlays and combine the finest materials with ergonomic design. The center console features new illuminated cupholders and easily accessible storage compartments for mobile phones, enabling wireless charging of two smartphones side-by-side within easy reach of the driver and front passenger. In addition, wired USB-C charging with a power output of up to 100 W provides fast and convenient charging options for all occupants [16] .
The new multifunction steering wheel offers improved ergonomics and intuitive operation. At the request of customers, Mercedes-Benz has reintroduced the operating concept with rocker switches for the limiter and DISTRONIC, as well as a rotary dial for volume control. The capacitive touch panels are seamlessly integrated and provide tactile feedback for better orientation.
In the new S-Class, excellent rear passenger comfort is standard in both wheelbase variants. Customers can choose between a more dynamic silhouette and a long-wheelbase model that offers even more space in the rear. The top-of-the-line model with four seats and the First-Class rear of the long-wheelbase version optionally transforms the rear of the new S-Class into a business lounge. The continuous center console offers concealed storage compartments with wireless and fast-charging USB-C ports for mobile devices, a refrigerated compartment, and temperature-controlled cupholders. Folding tables create a comfortable surface for working on a laptop, signing documents, or enjoying a relaxed meal on the go. Those who enjoy traveling in the rear can also choose from new trim elements for the center console, giving the rear seating area a personal touch.
Always within easy reach: The two new, detachable MBUX remote controls in the rear allow for effortless control of vehicle functions such as climate control and sunshades, as well as the larger 33.3-centimeter displays of the MBUX high-end rear-seat entertainment system. Thanks to integrated HD cameras, these screens are ideal for business video conferences with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Webex. This allows passengers to participate in video conferences and remain productive while traveling in style.
Whether in the front or rear seats, the ever-expanding app portfolio now includes video streaming platforms such as Disney+ and RIDEVU by Sony Pictures Entertainment. In the new S-Class, entertainment becomes child's play: Imagine relaxing in the back after a long day and enjoying a film. Families can entertain their children with popular animated movies, while business travelers unwind with premium originals or catch up on the latest news with leading channels. Thanks to its integration with the MBUX high-end rear seat entertainment system, streaming feels natural and all-encompassing. This transforms every journey into a personalized first-class experience.
For the new S-Class, customers can choose between two optional Burmester® surround sound systems: the Burmester® 3D surround sound system, which has now been significantly enhanced with elegant silver speaker caps in the mirror triangle, and the Burmester® high-end 4D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos® – both transform the interior into a comprehensive sound experience that can be both heard and felt.
A highlight of the latest climate comfort package is the innovative heated seatbelt. It warms up to a pleasant temperature of up to 44° Celsius, offering front passengers a gentle, comforting embrace – transforming chilly mornings into moments of pure well-being. This innovation enhances comfort on every journey and adds a touch of luxury on cold days. Convenient activation via the seat heating button encourages passengers to remove heavy jackets to ensure the seatbelt is properly adjusted and safety is increased. A small detail with a big impact – every journey begins with a feeling of well-being.
The S-Class also takes a significant step forward in climate comfort with the new Digital Vent Control and a new electric cabin air filter. Elegantly illuminated optional air vents automatically adapt to the selected ventilation scenario. The new electric filter ionizes the air and removes even extremely fine particles – up to 1,200 times smaller than a single grain of salt. This cleans the cabin air approximately every 90 seconds [17] , creating a cleaner environment for all occupants.
This multi-spoke wheel, manufactured using an innovative high-pressure casting process, impresses with sharper contours, reduced material thickness, and a striking 50-cross-spoke design – the perfect complement to the refined elegance of the new S-Class. Finished in high-gloss tremolite metallic, it is a distinctive option for those who appreciate individuality and timeless style.
For nearly 100 years, heads of state, business leaders, and members of royal families have been climbing into Mercedes-Benz special protection vehicles with one expectation: to be as safe as possible – and yet feel completely at ease. As the epitome of safety in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio, the new Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC combines the in-house developed Integrated Protection System (iSS) with a discreet aluminum exterior, achieving VR10 [19] , the highest civilian protection class, which has been confirmed with top marks in tests using highly lifelike dummies. The S-Class GUARD is currently the only production sedan to offer VR10 certification from the factory for both transparent (glass windows) and opaque body areas (passenger cell/structure). As the first GUARD limousine with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, the new special protection S-Class offers superior and effortless driving performance. Inside, a customizable rear compartment and the MBUX high-end rear seat entertainment system, with features such as video conferencing, transform the vehicle into a secure, fully networked business lounge. GUARD-specific systems – including a fire extinguishing system, emergency fresh air system, threat alarm system, external communication systems, and power-assisted doors – enhance everyday safety. At the same time, a wide range of options and tailored solutions allows for the precise configuration of the S 680 GUARD 4MATIC for government tasks and other highly specialized roles.
The new S-Class combines effortless performance with its characteristic serenity and composure – thanks to an optimized selection of electrified powertrains. From 8- and 6-cylinder petrol engines and 6-cylinder diesel drives to a plug-in hybrid, the S-Class offers a wide range of options. Each one contributes to the characteristic, effortless smoothness that defines the S-Class experience.
At the top of the range is the new eight-cylinder engine (M 177 Evo) in the Mercedes-Benz S 580 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan. It delivers 395 kW (537 hp) and a maximum torque of 750 Nm. Technical upgrades and mild-hybrid technology support linear power delivery, efficient energy recuperation, and exceptional smoothness – all while meeting the latest emissions standards and ensuring a quiet interior experience.
The six-cylinder petrol engine (M 256 Evo) in the Mercedes-Benz S 450 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan and the Mercedes-Benz S 500 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan now responds even more dynamically: Maximum torque increases to 600 Nm and, via overboost, to up to 640 Nm. Overboost refers to a short-term increase in torque through higher boost pressure of the exhaust gas turbocharger, giving the S-Class more pulling power in certain driving situations such as overtaking or accelerating. Other key improvements include a more powerful electric auxiliary compressor, optimized intake and exhaust ports, and a revised intake camshaft. Enhanced insulation measures ensure excellent noise and vibration damping and an exceptionally low noise level at all speeds.
The plug-in hybrid variant, with an electric range of around 100 kilometers [21], combines the upgraded six-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor. System output increases by up to 55 kW compared to the previous generation of engines, resulting in an even smoother and more responsive driving experience in the Mercedes-Benz S 580 e 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan with EQ Hybrid technology and in the Mercedes-Benz S 450 e long-wheelbase sedan with EQ Hybrid technology. Gasoline particulate filters and a pressure tank are now standard worldwide: they underscore the commitment to efficiency and environmental protection. Together, these powertrains offer the perfect balance of power, smoothness, and innovation – ensuring that the new S-Class remains the ultimate expression of driving safety and long-distance comfort.
For customers who prefer diesel engines, the new Mercedes-Benz S 350 d 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan and the Mercedes-Benz S 450 d 4MATIC long-wheelbase sedan are equipped with the OM 656 Evo six-cylinder engine, further developed to meet future emissions regulations. For the first time in series production, an electrically heated catalytic converter is used for even faster and more efficient exhaust aftertreatment. Modifications to exhaust gas recirculation, cooling, and crankcase ventilation further increase durability and efficiency.
All three engines feature a 17 kW integrated starter-generator (ISG). It intelligently supports both the gasoline and diesel engines at lower engine speeds. Combined with turbocharging, this ensures excellent power delivery. The system includes a 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as coasting, boosting, and energy recuperation, resulting in significant fuel savings. Furthermore, the engines start very quickly and smoothly thanks to the ISG, making the start-stop function virtually imperceptible, as is the transition from coasting with the engine off to powerful acceleration. At idle, the intelligent interaction between the ISG and the combustion engine ensures exceptionally smooth operation.
Imagine gliding through the city or cruising along winding country roads – every journey in the new S-Class is characterized by smooth running, refined comfort, and effortless composure. This is made possible by the standard AIRMATIC air suspension or the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL. Both systems now feature intelligent, predictive damping. This innovation enhances comfort by electrically adjusting the damping system directly before long undulations in the road, such as those common in Southern Europe and the USA. The system distinguishes between short, abrupt road irregularities like potholes – which are detected and communicated as warnings – and long undulations that cause vertical body movements, where proactive damping adjustment can measurably improve comfort. This predictive damper control is now also available for the chassis systems of the new S-Class and works in combination with AIRMATIC and E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL. It uses Car-to-X information from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the Mercedes Intelligent Cloud. Mercedes-Benz has already filed a patent application for this in-house development.
Rear-axle steering – now standard with a 4.5° steering angle and optionally with up to 10° – further improves agility and stability. In the 10° configuration on the long-wheelbase S-Class, it reduces the turning circle by almost two meters, noticeably simplifying everyday driving: effortless parking in tight spaces, safe maneuvering in narrow hotel driveways, or confident turning in busy city centers. At higher speeds, the rear wheels steer in parallel with the front wheels, ensuring reassuring stability and a safe driving experience.
The S-Class has always been at the forefront of safety. From crumple zones to ABS and ESP®, to the intelligent MB.DRIVE occupant protection and state-of-the-art restraint systems, the S-Class is the spearhead of this philosophy. The new S-Class protects occupants and other road users with cutting-edge safety systems, setting new standards for automotive safety. The enhanced adaptive restraint system includes PRE-SAFE® impulse belt tensioners, two-stage belt force limiters, advanced airbag gas generators, and an active ventilation opening in the front passenger airbag. A front passenger knee airbag and optional rear seat airbags for frontal impacts extend protection to a global standard of up to 15 airbags, which are deployed as needed by an airbag control unit that calculates the optimal response in every situation.
Rear passengers benefit from innovative beltbags that inflate within the seatbelts in the event of a severe frontal collision to reduce stress on the chest. Rear seat airbags can be selectively deployed to reduce head and neck strain in a frontal impact. PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side for the front seats is activated before a side impact to optimize occupant positioning. Models equipped with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL can raise the vehicle before a crash to better distribute impact forces. Every detail – from the restraint system to intelligent deployment – underscores the S-Class's commitment to uncompromising safety for everyone.
