‘Our benchmark’: Mercedes-Benz updates the S-Class

Despite the update being a mid-generation refresh, the luxury saloon is more than 50 per cent new for 2027.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class exterior front — *The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, seen here in AMG Line trim, is refreshed. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Mercedes-Benz is updating its flagship sedan.

The S-Class is not entering a new generation and yet the refresh is giving the full-size luxury sedan more than 50 per cent new components.

The company said this is the most comprehensive update for a single S-Class generation to date.

The luxury saloon is getting updated technology, including a Mercedes-Benz Operating System, new MB.Drive, an MBUX Superscreen, new mild-hybrid powertrains and much more.

2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class front — *The updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a pair of mild-hybrid powertrains under its hood. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Powertrain options

Powering the luxury sedan are a pair of engines.

At the top of the model’s range is the S 580 4MATIC, which is powered by a biturbo 4-litre V8 engine with 530 hp and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. The automaker said a number of enhancements allow the V8 to respond quicker and run more efficiently with a smoother power delivery than before.

Buyers can also choose the S 500 4MATIC, which features a turbocharged 3-litre inline six-cylinder engine with 443 hp and 472 lb.-ft. of torque.

Both engines also feature a 23-hp integrated starter generator, providing support at lower engine speeds. Mercedes-Benz said the mild-hybrid system improves power delivery and helps reduce fuel consumption.

2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class cabin front — *The MBUX Superscreen is heading to the updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Technology

The MB.OS integrates all vehicle systems into one operating system. The MB.OS has over-the-air update capability, which allows it to be up to date.

The above supercomputer also enables the car’s MB.DRIVE suite of advanced driver assistance systems to work.

The MB.DRIVE utilizes 10 external cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors. The system is controlled by the MB.OS and utilizes AI algorithms to process sensor data to understand the surrounding traffic conditions.

The operating system also powers the automaker’s fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system, which features AI integration from Microsoft and Google. This allows the system to use multiple AI agents. Mercedes-Benz said the MBUX system’s virtual assistant gives drivers a more intuitive and personal digital companion. The virtual assistant is able to handle complex, multi-turn conversations.

The MBUX interface also includes what Mercedes-Benz calls MBUX Zero Layer, an app grid that can be customized with apps grouped together, just as you can do with your smartphone.

The updated S-Class also gets a new MBUX Superscreen. This screen includes a 14.4-inch central display, 12.3-inch front passenger display and 12.3-inch driver display. The driver display also has an optional 3D instrument cluster that virtually floats behind the steering wheel.

Mercedes-Benz uses several safety features, including eye-tracking technology, to ensure the driver is not distracted by what’s on the front passenger’s screen.

2027 Mercedes-Benz S Class cabin rear — *The S-Class has an available four-seat option, turning the full-size luxury sedan a comfort lounge. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

Rear-seat comfort

The S-Class has an available four-seat option, intended to turn the car into a business lounge with a full-length centre console featuring storage, wireless charging, USB-C charge ports, temperature controlled cup holders and folding tables.

The rear also gets two new MBUX remote controls to give the rear-seat occupants access to climate control and window shade setting.

The rear seats also get a pair of 13.1-inch MBUX displays. These displays also feature HD cameras so you can take part in video conferences via Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Webex.

Buyers can choose from a Burmester 3D surround sound or higher-end 4D surround sound with Dolby Atmos.

To ensure occupant comfort on a cold day, even the seatbelts are heated in the S-Class.

Mercedes-Benz said the car’s standard Airmatic air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control improve comfort by adjusting damping settings. The car uses the automaker’s Car-to-X information system, which allows Mercedes-Benz vehicles to transmit road conditions to each other in real-time, to support the active suspension systems.

Mercedes-Benz said the S-Class is defined by its quietness, refined comfort and composure.

“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, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, in a news release.

2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exterior rear — *The update is giving the Mercedes-Benz S-Class more than 50 per cent new content for 2027. – Mercedes-Benz Canada photo*

New option for Canadians

The new S-Class will be available with the AMG Line package, which will give the car an AMG specific design, including a different bumper, larger air inlets and chrome trim, a sportier rear fascia and side skirts, AMG wheels up to 21-inch sizes and more.

On the inside, the AMG Line will give the car a flat-bottomed steering wheel, which is a first for the S-Class in Canada.

Production of the updated S-Class will begin this year at the company’s plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.

Canadian pricing and market availability wasn’t provided. For updates, visit the Mercedes-Benz Canada website.