- Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the upcoming S-Class facelift in robotaxi guise, featuring roof-mounted LiDAR that enables Level-4 autonomous driving. The updated flagship is expected to make its global debut in January 2026 with refreshed styling, reworked interiors and familiar powertrain options.
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check offers The current-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrived five years ago, but the luxury sedan is set to be replaced with a successor by the end of the decade. However, before raising the curtains, the German carmaker will launch a mid-cycle update to keep its flagship competitive in its segment. While the car is expected to launch globally in January 2026, it has been officially teased as a robotaxi in camouflage.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift has made its first appearance in the form of a robotaxi, which will be introduced in Abu Dhabi under a partnership with Momenta in its initial phase. The sedan is offered with roof-mounted LiDAR, enabling a Level-4 autonomous driving system certified by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). With this, Mercedes intends to establish a driverless shuttle service, which will eventually expand to more areas.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift: exterior update
The S-Class facelift will feature several cosmetic changes, including a new front grille that has become more angular than the existing version. The bumpers at both the front and rear look more pronounced, while the headlamps and taillights have been refreshed with the three-pointed star motif that follows all of Stuttgart's latest models. And of course, the car will be sold to the public without LiDAR and fender-mounted cameras.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift: interior changes
Mercedes will update the interior of the S-Class for a more tech-based experience. Expect the dashboard to be dominated by a wall-to-wall display, as it is on the EQS, with a seamless glass panel spanning three screens. It will probably be based on the latest operating software.
Also read: Mercedes unveils new electric GLB with 630 km range
Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift: powertrain options
Although there are no official details on the powertrain of the updated model, it is expected to carry over to the existing lineup of options. The range starts with a 3.0-litre mild-hybrid inline-six unit that makes 442 bhp and moves up to a plug-in hybrid V8 engine that stops just short of touching the 800-bhp mark. The Maybach lineup will likely retain the powerful V12 powerplant.
The S-Class facelift is expected to be launched in 2027 and will probably reach Indian shores. The sedan will continue to be sold alongside its electric sibling, the EQS, until both nameplates are merged into one model for the next generation.
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First publication date: 11 Dec 2025, 16:36 PM IST