2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: The Ultimate Status Symbol Just Got Smarter

Mercedes-Benz just dropped details on their most extensively updated S-Class in the model’s history. Unveiled today, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class isn’t just a facelift – more than 50% of the car has been newly developed or re-engineered, making it the most comprehensive update for a single S-Class generation to date.

True as that might be, sadly it doesn’t look all that different from the outgoing model at first glance, the only visible differences on the outside are a new nose, tail, and wheels. But the real magic happens inside the vehicle.

“We’re celebrating 140 years of Mercedes-Benz and 140 years of innovation and excellence. No car embodies this legacy more than the S-Class. Brilliant engineering, effortless comfort, quiet confidence, timeless design. That’s what the Mercedes star stands for. And that’s what the S-Class delivers. The new S-Class remains our benchmark – and our promise. It blends its rich heritage with bold ambition for what’s next,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

First-Ever Illuminated Mercedes Star and Next-Gen Lighting

For the first time in over a century, the new S-Class offers an optional illuminated standing star on the hood. This glowing emblem joins a 20% larger illuminated grille with redesigned three-dimensional chrome stars, creating a commanding presence day or night.

The new twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps feature micro-LED technology that expands the illumination field by 40%. The ULTRA RANGE high beam reaches up to 1,968 feet (more than five football fields) and now swivels for optimal coverage.

New taillights with three chrome-framed stars complete the signature look, while side sill projectors display “Mercedes-Benz” branding when you approach the vehicle.

Three Electrified Powertrains Deliver Serious Power

As you can see, Mercedes stuck with the same engines for the new S-Class, but all benefit from some changes.

S 500 4MATIC: Upgraded 3.0L inline-six producing 442 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque (472 lb-ft with overtorque). 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

S 580e 4MATIC: Plug-in hybrid combining the inline-six with electric motor for 576 hp and 553 lb-ft—73 hp more than the previous generation. 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds with electric-only range TBA.

S 580 4MATIC: Redesigned 4.0L V8 with 530 hp and 553 lb-ft. New flat-plane crankshaft and refined turbochargers deliver 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds.

Both engines feature a 23-hp integrated starter generator with 48-volt mild-hybrid system for seamless start-stop and improved efficiency.

MB.OS Supercomputer and AI-Powered MBUX

The new S-Class introduces the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a purpose-built supercomputer powering everything from driver assistance to infotainment. Connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, it enables over-the-air updates to keep your S-Class current.

“S-Class has always defined automotive innovation. With MB.OS & its AI-driven capabilities, our flagship enters a new era of intelligence. Every seat offers an elevated Mercedes-Benz experience, powered by the MBUX Virtual Assistant, the MB.DRIVE suite of advanced driver assistance systems, and next-generation rear-seat entertainment. This fusion of cutting-edge software and engineering ensures the new S-Class remains the benchmark for innovation, safety, and comfort,” says Jörg Burzer, Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

The fourth-generation MBUX integrates AI from Microsoft, Google, and ChatGPT-4o to create a Virtual Assistant that actually holds real conversations with context and short-term memory. The avatar changes colors based on emotion—green when you thank it, rainbow when joking. Choose between the classic Mercedes star, a futuristic human form, or “LittleBenz” with an expressive face.

The standard MBUX Superscreen features a 14.4-inch central display and 12.3-inch front passenger display beneath seamless glass. Front passengers can stream Disney+, YouTube, or RIDEVU while driving thanks to eye-tracking technology that prevents driver distraction.

Mobile Boardroom with Video Conferencing

The optional MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System features dual 13.1-inch displays with integrated HD cameras for video conferencing via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Webex. Two detachable MBUX remote controls let rear passengers independently control climate, seats, screens, and more. MBUX Notes uses AI to transcribe spoken thoughts into organized bullet points, syncing with OneNote, Gmail, or Outlook.

Heated Seat Belts and Advanced Climate Control

The new S-Class offers optional heated seat belts for front seats occupants – thin electrical filaments provide gentle warmth that feels like a reassuring embrace on cold mornings. Beyond warmth and comfort, this encourages removing bulky jackets for proper seat belt fit and enhanced safety.

Digital Vent Control automatically adjusts all air vents based on saved profiles. The new electric cabin air filter with ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL removes ultrafine particles 1,200 times smaller than a grain of salt, purifying cabin air every 90 seconds. The system intelligently switches between fresh-air and recirculation modes based on air quality sensors.

Intelligent Suspension That Learns from Other Cars

Standard 4.5-degree rear-axle steering (or optional 10-degree) reduces the turning circle to 35.4 feet, making parking surprisingly easy. The intelligent damper regulation uses Car-to-X communication to learn about speed bumps from other Mercedes vehicles ahead, and then automatically adjusting before you reach them – particularly noticeable for rear passengers. This Mercedes-developed, patent-pending technology works with both AIRMATIC air suspension and optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL.

MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure: Endless Customization

The MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure program offers over 150 exterior paint colors and 400+ interior colors. New options include MANUFAKTUR Black Sparkling with genuine glass flakes creating a starry-sky effect, and MANUFAKTUR Verde Silver Magno matte finish. Customize wheels, illuminated door sills, interior stitching, and more through consultation with trained experts using immersive visualization tools.

Two Burmester sound systems available: the standard 3D Surround Sound with elegant silver speaker covers, or the optional High-End 4D Surround Sound with Dolby Atmos—39 speakers, 1,750 watts, plus tactile transducers in seats that vibrate with the music for a literal “feel the bass” experience.

Still The Benchmark

“The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the world’s best-selling luxury sedan – and, for many, simply the best car in the world. With its latest generation, we are once again presenting a car that sets the tone and defines its own standards. We have refined every detail for our customers – to elevate what has always defined the S-Class: presence, prestige and that unmistakable feeling of coming home,” said Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management for Sales & Customer Experience.

Whether you’re drawn to the AI-powered tech, the 530-hp V8, or the mobile office capabilities, the new 2027 S-Class delivers on every front, reminding everyone why it’s been the benchmark luxury sedan for decades.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is expected to arrive in the US in the second half of 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to that date.

What do you think of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class?