Like most car brands these days, it seems that Mercedes-Benz just can’t help but give us a sneak peek of every new car to come. True to form, Mercedes-Benz CEO, Ola Källenius has now teased the upcoming 2026 S-Class facelift via a YouTube video ahead of its world premiere on January 29th, coinciding with the company’s 140th anniversary.
The car remains concealed in camouflage for now, but according to Mercedes-Benz, the updated S-Class incorporates over 2,700 new or revised components, effectively overhauling some 50% of the entire vehicle. Stuttgart claims this is the most extensive refresh in the history of the S-Class.
Part of this component count includes the redesigned headlights and taillights, which now feature the Mercedes-Benz star motif as seen on the recently revealed CLA and GLC. Other lighting upgrades include a front grille that is 20% larger and now features surround illumination. According to Källenius, even the iconic standing Mercedes-Benz emblem on the bonnet will be part of the light show.
While the teaser did not reveal the interior, the company confirmed it will feature the next-generation Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and expanded options in its exclusive Manufaktur “Made to Measure” personalisation programme.
For an even posher ride, the Airmatic air suspension now features intelligent damper regulation that “delivers even greater comfort.” Mercedes-Benz says this will be “particularly” noticeable on the long, undulating speed bumps common in Southern Europe and the United States, but we reckon it will handle Malaysia’s bumpy roads just as well.
RELATED: All-electric 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA makes Malaysian debut with CLA250+ preview – est. RM296k
According to a report by Motor1, the S-Class will receive an updated 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six engine purportedly delivering 600 Nm of torque, up from 560 Nm in the current S500. An overboost function can temporarily increase the twist to 640 Nm. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine also survives the facelift, with the updated unit now producing 530 hp and 750 Nm—a jump of 34 hp and 50 Nm over its predecessor thanks to a new firing order and upgraded fuel injection.
For those going green, the PHEV variants will pair the revised six-cylinder with an updated electric system, boosting combined output by 74 hp and pushing the electric-only range beyond 100 km (WLTP).
These are the details revealed so far ahead of the world premiere on 29 January. Whether you call it a facelift or the most ambitious update in the model’s history, it is clear that Stuttgart is throwing everything at its flagship sedan to maintain its crown. We’ll just have to be patient and stay tuned for the full reveal.
ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz is making its cars easier to repair in the name of sustainability
