Mercedes-Benz India has officially announced the launch of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the Indian market on June 15, 2026. The facelifted flagship luxury limousine, which made its global debut in January, will be offered for the first time with a plug-in hybrid powertrain option. According to Mercedes-Benz, close to 90 per cent of the car has been reworked, encompassing extensive design revisions, technology upgrades, and new features.
Powertrain Options
The S 450e with EQ Hybrid Technology trim features a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol inline-six engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 435 hp and 680 Nm of torque. The system draws power from a 22 kWh battery pack, which Mercedes-Benz claims can provide an electric-only driving range of up to 100 km under ideal conditions.
The S 450 trim is equipped with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system that offers additional assistance during acceleration, producing 404 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The diesel-powered S 350d variant uses a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine generating 330 hp and 650 Nm. All powertrains send power to all four wheels via Mercedes-Benz's AWD setup. Adaptive air suspension is standard, with active self-levelling as an option. Rear-axle steering is now standard at 4.5 degrees, while a 10-degree setup remains optional.
Design Updates
The updated S-Class retains its overall profile but features significant revisions at the front. A larger grille with chrome star-pattern inserts and an illuminated surround is complemented by a backlit bonnet-mounted Mercedes emblem. The redesigned headlamps are larger and incorporate triple three-pointed star-shaped daytime running lights. The sedan also debuts Mercedes-Benz's latest micro-LED Digital Light technology, which improves illumination by 40 per cent and includes an ultra-range high beam capable of lighting up to 600 metres ahead.
Side profile changes are subtle, with newly designed alloy wheels, including optional 50-spoke units manufactured using a high-pressure casting process. Additional exterior colour options are available, including finishes from the Manufaktur customisation programme. The rear features slimmer LED tail-lamps with three-pointed star lighting elements, similar to the latest E-Class. The luxury sedan now incorporates more cameras, radars, and ultrasonic sensors to support upgraded driver assistance functions.
Interior and Features
Inside, the S-Class gets a gloss black dashboard layout integrating three screens, referred to as the Superscreen. This includes a 12.3-inch driver display, a front passenger screen, and a larger 14.4-inch central touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions. The sedan adopts the latest MB OS digital architecture, integrating systems such as lighting, cameras, suspension, and powertrain controls. The software supports cloud connectivity, AI-based functions, Google Maps navigation, and vehicle-to-everything technology.
Rear passengers enjoy dual 13.1-inch entertainment screens, while the previous rear control tablet has been replaced by two smaller touch-based controllers. The cabin features leather upholstery and optional wood trim finishes. Climate vents are now integrated behind illuminated metallic panels with electrically adjustable airflow controls. Most vehicle functions are operated through the touchscreen interface and capacitive shortcut controls. The car also features facial recognition through a dashboard-mounted camera, which supports video calling and cabin monitoring. Rear seat comfort remains a priority, with the long-wheelbase version offering up to 43 degrees of seat recline, along with heating, ventilation, massage functions, and an optional four-seat layout.
India Launch and Pricing
It is not yet confirmed whether the facelifted S-Class will be brought to India as a CBU import or assembled locally to keep pricing competitive. The updated flagship sedan is expected to be priced from Rs 2 crore (ex-showroom), with the plug-in hybrid variant likely commanding the highest price tag. Once introduced, the S-Class will compete against the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series in the Indian market. A petrol engine option is also expected at a later stage, though the future of the diesel-powered variant remains unconfirmed.
