On January 29th local time, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class officially debuted.
Although it’s a mid-cycle refresh, the changes are nothing short of a generational change.
According to official sources, over 50% of the new car’s components are newly developed or redesigned, making it the most comprehensive redesign of the S-Class. The new model is expected to go on sale in the first half of this year.
First, the exterior has been completely revamped. The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a significant design overhaul, including a newly styled illuminated grille that is 20% larger than the current model. The number of horizontal chrome spokes has increased from three to four, and 3D chrome star emblems have been added. The illuminated three-pointed star hood ornament is also a first for the new S-Class.
Furthermore, the headlights now feature a “double star” design, echoing the taillights with three chrome-framed stars on each side. When the driver approaches, the lights illuminate in greeting, complemented by “Mercedes-Benz” welcome lights projected onto the ground from the side skirts. The lower bumper has also been redesigned, enhancing the sporty look while retaining a dignified presence.
The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will still offer two exterior styling options, the main difference being the replacement of chrome trim with blacked-out trim, and a more assertive wheel design.
The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR bespoke division will offer over 150 exterior paint options and 400 interior color schemes to meet individual needs, including two new standard colors: Glitter Black and Matte Silver.
Customers can also customize illuminated door sills with the brand logo, various steering wheel styles, and brand emblem packages.
On the side, the new S-Class remains largely unchanged, featuring new 20-inch wheels and mirror housings. Intelligent driving sensors have been added to the fenders, and upon opening the doors, light-projecting devices integrated into the side skirts project the three-pointed star emblem onto the sides of the vehicle.
In terms of dimensions, the new car is 14mm longer (long wheelbase version), with dimensions of 5304/1921/1503mm (length/width/height) and a wheelbase of 3216mm. At the rear, the new car features taillights with the three-pointed star emblem, further emphasizing the S-Class’s identity.
The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class has also undergone significant changes. The dashboard has been completely redesigned, with a single glass panel integrating the 14.4-inch central touchscreen and the 12.3-inch front passenger display into a single “super screen.”
The 14.4-inch central touchscreen features the latest MBUX intelligent human-machine interaction system, integrating generative AI technologies such as ChatGPT4o, Microsoft Bing, and Google Gemini.
The 12.3-inch passenger entertainment screen can play music, videos, or games, and the driver attention monitoring system can dim the screen to reduce distractions.
The new multi-function steering wheel combines physical buttons, a scroll wheel, and capacitive buttons to assist the driver in convenient operation, making control more precise and natural, and meeting the needs of frequently used functions.
The center console integrates dual wireless charging pads for mobile phones and a 100W USB-C fast charging port to meet the charging needs of multiple devices.
Moving to the rear seats, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class (long wheelbase version) will offer a four-seat layout, featuring “first-class seats” with a maximum backrest adjustment of 43.5 degrees and a leg rest angle of 50 degrees.
The center armrest area integrates a wireless charging panel, hidden storage space, a separate refrigerator, and temperature-controlled cupholders, among other features.
Additionally, the rear seats will be equipped with a 13.1-inch display screen with a high-definition camera and two detachable MBUX remote controls. For audio, it will offer either a Burmester 3D surround sound system or a Burmester high-end 4D surround sound system (39 speakers) supporting Dolby Atmos.
In terms of powertrain, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid versions. The S 450 4MATIC is equipped with the M 256 Evo inline six-cylinder engine, producing a maximum power of 280 kW (381 hp) and a peak torque of 560 Nm; the S 500 4MATIC boasts a maximum power of 330 kW (449 hp) and a peak torque of 600 Nm, which can reach 640 Nm in overboost mode; the S 580 4MATIC features the new M 177 Evo V8 engine, delivering a maximum power of 395 kW (537 hp) and a peak torque of 750 Nm. Furthermore, all engines integrate a 17 kW ISG generator, further enhancing power delivery smoothness and fuel economy.
The S 450 e EQ Hybrid features a six-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The engine delivers a maximum power of 240 kW (326 hp), while the electric motor provides 120 kW (163 hp), resulting in a combined system power of 320 kW (an increase of 55 kW over the previous model) and a combined torque of 680 Nm. Its pure electric range is 95-117 km. The S 580 e 4MATIC EQ Hybrid boasts a maximum engine power of 330 kW (449 hp), an electric motor with a maximum power of 120 kW (163 hp), and a combined system power of 430 kW (585 hp). Its combined torque is 750 Nm, and its pure electric range is 92-103 km. Furthermore, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes standard with AIRMATIC air suspension and offers the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL intelligent body control system. It also features rear-wheel active steering (standard with a 4.5-degree steering angle in each direction, and an optional 10-degree steering angle in each direction).
Currently, all Mercedes-Benz S-Class models in China are equipped with a 2.5T inline six-cylinder engine, with no V8 version offered. It’s speculated that the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, when introduced to China, will most likely only offer a mild hybrid system consisting of a six-cylinder engine and a 48V mild-hybrid system, as well as a plug-in hybrid system with an electric motor. The new V8 engine is expected to enter the Chinese market through the Maybach S-Class and AMG versions.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a model with a long history. Mercedes-Benz launched the Mercedes-Benz 300 (W186) in 1951, symbolizing Mercedes-Benz’s rebirth after World War II and laying the foundation for the later S-Class. In 1954, Mercedes-Benz launched the “Ponton” series (W180/W128), and in 1959, the “Fintail” series (W111/W112). These models featured advanced technologies such as air suspension and disc brakes, and are considered by many to be the true spiritual ancestors of the S-Class.
The true S-Class was launched in 1972 with the introduction of the W116 series, officially named the “Mercedes-Benz S-Class.” This series featured numerous safety innovations, such as a dual-circuit braking system and a safety steering column. It was also the first Mercedes-Benz sedan to incorporate a driver’s airbag and seatbelt pretensioners, and the first to be equipped with a 6.0L V12 engine. In 1979, the second-generation S-Class (W126) was launched, hailed as one of the most successful and durable S-Class models.
However, the third-generation S-Class, internally codenamed W140, left a deep impression on Chinese consumers. Its massive front grille earned it the nickname “Tiger Head Benz” or “Big Benz” among car enthusiasts. This luxury sedan was featured in many classic Hong Kong films and television dramas, and its boxy body and imposing size cemented its “Big Benz” moniker.
Since the beginning of the 21st century, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has undergone four generations of redesign. The fourth-generation S-Class (W220) shifted its design language to “elegant curves,” resulting in a more streamlined and modern look.
The fifth-generation S-Class (W221) was a period of technological advancement, equipped with advanced technologies such as the second-generation Night Vision system, PRE-SAFE®, and Magic Body Control (ABC), further enhancing vehicle safety and comfort.
The sixth-generation S-Class (W222/V223) ushered in an era where “the inventor of the automobile reinvented the automobile,” pioneering features like the “Energizing Comfort” function and 64-color ambient lighting. It also spawned the Maybach S-Class, successfully reviving the ultra-luxury sub-brand.
The seventh-generation S-Class (W223) adopted innovative technologies such as an oversized head-up display, naked-eye 3D, and rear front airbags. Its interior featured a “floating island” design, emphasizing a more luxurious rear-seat experience.
As a luxury sedan under the Mercedes-Benz brand, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will continue to compete with the BMW 7 Series and Audi A8L. The BMW 7 Series is scheduled to release a mid-cycle refresh in the second half of 2026, while the Audi A8L’s last facelift was three years ago.
In terms of product strength, both competitors are entering a period of decline, which will naturally increase the advantages of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
However, with the rise of domestic brands, more and more products are beginning to challenge the Mercedes-Benz S-Class’s position, such as the NIO ET9 and the Honda Envix S800. While these models may not have the same level of brand recognition as Mercedes-Benz, their technological accumulation is comparable to the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Whether the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class can continue to maintain its status as a flagship luxury car in the Chinese market remains to be seen.
