The first official images and details of the new 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Luxury under camouflage: Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift prepares for debut on January 29
The undisputed leader of the luxury segment, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, is preparing to raise the bar again. The Stuttgart-based manufacturer has officially confirmed that the world premiere of the facelifted version (W223) will take place on January 29, 2026, an update described by German engineers as one of the most complex in the model's history. To maintain the suspense, the first official images show us the "flagship" covered in camouflage, but the technical details already leaked to the press promise a revolution under the hood and inside.
2,700 new pieces: A profound transformation
Although we're talking about a facelift, the changes are massive. Mercedes-Benz announced that approximately 50% of the car's components have been modified or improved, totaling about 2,700 new parts.
Visually, the new S-Class facelift will adopt a bolder design language. Confirmed new features include:
- Front grille and optical signature: The headlights and taillights will integrate star-shaped graphic elements (the brand emblem), similar to the new E-range models.
- Hood emblem: For purists, the star will continue to reign on the hood, symbolizing status and tradition.
- MB.OS: The interior will switch to the brand's new proprietary operating system, which promises a faster interface, based on artificial intelligence, and superior integration of Google services.
- Airmatic suspension: Recalibrated for even more refined comfort, it will work together with assistance systems to anticipate road irregularities.
Under the hood, fans of internal combustion engines receive good news: the V8 engine will be maintained and optimized, while the Plug-in Hybrid versions will offer an electric range of over 100 km and powers that can exceed 580 HP.
S-Class in Romania: The King of the Luxury Segment
In Romania, the S-Class is not just a car, but a symbol of success, and sales figures confirm this status.
Sales and Popularity Mercedes-Benz reported a record year in Romania for 2024, with growth of over 9%. The premium segment, which includes the S-Class along with the Maybach and G-Class, represents approximately 26% of the brand's total sales locally. Romanians continue to prefer the German sedan to its rivals, with the S-Class dominating the luxury segment registration rankings.
Price and Configurations Currently, the starting price for a Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Romania is around 115,000 - 120,000 Euro (including VAT) for the base model (S 350 d). The facelift variant is expected to bring a slight price indexation, given the technological addition, estimates placing the new model at a starting threshold of approximately 125,000 Euro. The ultra-luxurious Maybach or AMG performance versions can easily exceed the 200,000 Euro threshold.
Competition On the local market, the fight is between the "German triad":
- BMW 7 Series: The biggest rival, which relies on an avant-garde design and the fully electric i7 version.
- Audi A8: A more discreet alternative, focused on technology and Quattro all-wheel drive.
- Porsche Panamera: Although sportier, it attracts customers looking for a mix of luxury and dynamic performance.
Despite BMW's offensive with the new massive grille design, the S-Class remains the traditional choice for the business environment and official representation in Romania.
Conclusion
The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift is not just an aesthetic update, but a technological response to the demands of an increasingly digitalized market. By keeping the classic V8 and diesel engines, but also by implementing a state-of-the-art operating system, Mercedes-Benz ensures that the "best car in the world" will keep its crown after January 29. In Romania, success seems guaranteed by customer loyalty to the three-pointed star and the constant desire for absolute comfort.