Mercedes-Benz To Launch Updated S-Class In India
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the 2026 S-Class facelift will launch in India on June 15. The updated flagship luxury sedan will introduce a plug-in hybrid powertrain in the Indian market for the first time. A petrol variant is also expected to join the line-up later, while the future of the diesel version remains uncertain.
The facelifted S-Class was revealed globally earlier this year, and India will receive the updated model within a few months of its international debut. Prices are expected to range between Rs 2 crore and Rs 2.4 crore, ex-showroom.
New Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain Joins The Range
The biggest highlight of the updated S-Class is the introduction of the S 450e with EQ Hybrid Technology. It combines a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol inline-six engine with an electric motor to deliver a combined output of 435 HP and 680 NM.
A 22kWh battery pack powers the electric motor and offers a claimed pure-electric range of up to 100 KM under ideal conditions. Mercedes claims the S 450e can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.
The standard S 450 petrol variant continues with the same 3.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It produces 404 HP and 500 NM while offering a quicker claimed 0-100 KMPH sprint time of 4.9 seconds thanks to the lighter setup and 4Matic all-wheel drive.
The outgoing S 350d diesel uses a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine producing 330 HP and 650 NM. Mercedes-Benz has not yet confirmed whether this variant will continue after the facelift launch.
Cabin Gets New Superscreen Setup
Inside, the 2026 S-Class receives Mercedes-Benz’s latest Superscreen layout. The setup includes a 14.4-inch central touchscreen along with separate 12.3-inch displays for the driver and front passenger.
The sedan also gets the latest MB.OS software architecture, allowing over-the-air updates and AI-based features. Google Maps-based navigation, vehicle-to-everything functions and an updated digital assistant are also part of the package.
Mercedes has further reduced the number of physical controls inside the cabin. However, the steering wheel now gets a revised scroll wheel and toggle controls for easier usability while driving.
Rear passengers continue to get dual 13.1-inch entertainment screens, while the older rear tablet controller has been replaced by two smaller touch-based controllers.
Exterior Design Receives Subtle Yet Premium Updates
The facelifted S-Class gets a redesigned front grille that is now 20 percent larger than before. It also features illuminated surrounds and chrome three-pointed star elements integrated into the grille slats.
The updated headlights now include Mercedes-Benz’s latest micro-LED Digital Light technology and signature three-pointed star daytime running lamp graphics. Mercedes says the new lighting system offers improved illumination while using less energy.
At the rear, the slimmer tail-lamps now feature three-pointed star LED motifs, giving the luxury sedan a more distinctive appearance at night.
More Technology & Safety Features Added
The updated S-Class continues with adaptive air suspension as standard, while active self-levelling suspension remains optional. Rear-wheel steering is also offered, with the 4.5-degree system now standard and the 10-degree setup available as an option.
Mercedes-Benz has also improved the ADAS suite by adding more sensors, including five radars, 10 cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. The sedan now supports more advanced driver assistance and safety functions than before.
With the addition of plug-in hybrid technology, updated styling and a more advanced cabin, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift aims to strengthen its position in the ultra-luxury sedan segment in India.
