New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Debuts in China with Over 50% of Parts Updated
Ahead of the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class has made its domestic debut. As a mid-cycle facelift, over 50% of the vehicle's components have been newly developed or redesigned. Mercedes-Benz simultaneously announced its product plans, stating it will launch over 40 new models by 2027, including 7 models exclusive to the Chinese market.
In terms of exterior, the new car features a newly designed illuminated grille, approximately 20% larger, paired with four horizontal chrome struts and a 3D star emblem. The three-pointed star emblem above the grille is self-illuminating for the first time.
The headlights have been upgraded to the new generation "Dual Star" digital headlights, utilizing micro-LED technology and high-performance chips. This increases the illumination range by approximately 40% and reduces energy consumption by 50%, with ultra-long-range illumination reaching up to 600 meters.
Body details have also been optimized, adding new 20-inch wheels and intelligent driving sensors. The long-wheelbase version has increased in length by 14mm to 5304mm, while the wheelbase remains at 3216mm. The rear features a three-pointed star taillight design, maximizing brand recognition.
The interior features a smart and luxurious cabin created with a multi-screen combination, equipped with a 14.4-inch central display, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch passenger display, running the latest MBUX system.
The rear seats are first-class seats with a maximum backrest adjustment of 43.5 degrees and a leg rest of up to 50 degrees, paired with a 13.1-inch display and an AI entertainment system. The audio system can be optionally equipped with a 4D surround sound system with 39 speakers.
In terms of intelligent driving, the new car is equipped with 10 cameras, 5 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, and comes standard with MB.DRIVE driver assistance, supporting adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and lane change assistance.
Higher-end versions add intelligent parking assist, supporting diagonal parking and reverse tracking. Over-the-air (OTA) upgrades will be available in the future for wheel protection warnings. The Chinese market will also launch urban and highway pilot assistance functions.
The powertrain offers a variety of options including gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid. The domestic market will primarily promote six-cylinder mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, with V8 engines expected to be used in Maybach and AMG models.