The New Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Refined in Every Detail

In celebration of the 140th anniversary of Carl Benz’s invention of the automobile in 1886, the new S‑Class emerges as the ultimate icon. As the world’s best-selling luxury sedan, it is meticulously refined in every detail to continue to be the benchmark in its segment. More than just a flagship model, the S-Class embodies the essence of the brand: a pioneering spirit, engineering excellence and craftsmanship – and that unmistakable “Welcome Home” feeling.

This latest evolution of the S‑Class delivers the most extensive update ever within the same generation of the luxury sedan model series, taking a leading role in the most ambitious product launch program in the history of Mercedes‑Benz. With more than 50 percent of the S‑Class – approximately 2,700 components – newly developed or re-engineered, it reaffirms a legacy of leadership, engineering and digital ambition and progress.

A bolder, confident and unmistakable appearance

A new era of visual presence: illuminated standing star and striking light signature

The new S‑Class features a bolder silhouette and, for the first time, an illuminated grille, which is approximately 20 percent larger and accented with redesigned, three-dimensional chrome stars.

For more than 100 years, the upright Mercedes star has symbolized the heritage and pioneering spirit of brand. Today, it enters a new era: for the first time, the standing star on hood of the S‑Class is optionally illuminated⁴. Unmistakable, it becomes part of the S-Class light signature and gives the vehicle a radiant presence at night. The modern illumination design beautifully the special nature of the vehicle and transforms every arrival – whether at a grand event or simply returning home – into a memorable occasion.

The new DIGITAL LIGHT twin-star headlamp design creates an iconic look – day or night – and provide significantly enhanced visibility. At the rear, newly designed taillights with three chrome-framed signature stars reinforce the S‑Class identity, ensuring a lasting impression. A light projector integrated into the side sill trim on each side of the vehicle projects “Mercedes‑Benz” branding alongside the vehicle⁴, transforming every approach and exit of the vehicle into a special occasion.

New DIGITAL LIGHT system with adaptive ULTRA RANGE high beam and partial high beam function

The new S‑Class elevates visibility and safety with the new DIGITAL LIGHT system. Innovative micro-LED technology and a powerful new chip expand the high-resolution field of illumination by approximately 40 percent, delivering brighter high beams compared with the previous system. The dynamic ULTRA RANGE high beam – with a reach of up to 1,968 feet, more than the length of five American football fields – now swivels for optimal coverage, while the new partial high beam function – available for the first time in the U.S. – improves detection of poorly lit road users. Combined with camera data and map intelligence, the cornering light adapts more precisely to road layouts – all powered by the Mercedes‑Benz Operating System (MB.OS). From the candlelit lanterns on Gottlieb Daimler’s Motor Carriage in 1886 to today’s advanced DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function⁵, Mercedes‑Benz has illuminated every era of automotive history – and in the new S‑Class, brings a new level of advanced illumination technology .

Extensive MANUFAKTUR customization options

The MANUFAKTUR program delivers an unparalleled level of personalization, offering exclusive paint finishes, luxurious Nappa leather packages and exquisite handcrafted details. The new S-Class introduces two new MANUFAKTUR paints: MANUFAKTUR Black Sparkling, which features genuine glass flakes for a striking shimmer, and MANUFAKTUR Verde Silver Magno, introducing a new sophisticated matte finish to the popular color.

For those seeking the ultimate level of individualization, the newly launched MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure program enables customers to create a truly unique vehicle. With MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure, customers can choose from more than 150 paint colors and over 400 interior colors for the new S‑Class. Other available custom touches include distinctive illuminated door sills, interior stitching and a wide array of colors for wheels and wheel accents. The program offers a broad selection of curated options that allow customers to explore the full spectrum of technically achievable colors, providing unmatched customization options for both exterior and interior designs.

Customer wishes that extend beyond this portfolio are evaluated individually by the MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure experts. Personalized vehicles are brought to life through an immersive new visualization tool, enabling customers to closely tailor their vehicle to individual tastes.

Intuitive: A new digital S-Class experience powered by MB.OS

Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) – the state-of-the-art supercomputer behind every drive

The new S‑Class brings the latest Mercedes‑Benz technology to center stage. At its core is the purpose-built Mercedes‑Benz Operating System (MB.OS) supercomputer, which powers every aspect of the vehicle – from driver assistance to infotainment to driving performance – delivering faster processing, greater computing power and a deeply integrated experience. MB.OS integrates all systems into one intelligent ecosystem and is the foundation for MB.DRIVE and MBUX. Its connection to the Mercedes‑Benz Intelligent Cloud enables over-the-air updates⁶ for numerous vehicle functions, keeping the S‑Class up to date and refreshed. The result: the new S‑Class becomes an intuitive companion, delivering seamless interaction and exceptional performance – creating a driving experience that is smarter, safer and more personal than ever before.

MB.DRIVE: High-performance computing for state-of-the-art driver and parking assistance systems

The new S-Class is equipped with a wide array of sensors, which work in conjunction with a high-performance control unit powered by MB.OS. Artificial intelligence algorithms, which are trained on large amounts of fleet data, process the sensor data in real-time to understand the surrounding traffic conditions. The S-Class also features a new, water-cooled computer with sufficient power reserves for future functions.

Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE ASSIST^6,7, which enhances Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC6 with Digital Extras: Steering Assist and Lane Change Assist6, are among the extensive driver assistance technologies included standard.

Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO^6,7 will offer market-specific enhanced assistance functions⁸, adding even more capabilities in a variety of driving scenarios.

Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST^6,7,9 can detect parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle, quicker than ever, and enables angled parking for the first time. The system can also recognize a variety of space types including curb slots, garages line slots, curb slots, slots containing other objects, and more Furthermore, it is now possible to leave a parking space, even after manually parking the vehicle.

Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST 360^10,11,12 offers new and improved surround-view displays with Digital Extra: 360 camera.

Introduction of fourth generation MBUX in S‑Class: Exceptionally intuitive and personalized with AI

Powered by MB.OS, the new S-Class features fourth generation MBUX infotainment that integrates AI from both Microsoft and Google, combining multiple AI agents (Microsoft Bing Search, Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent and ChatGPT4o). With this, the new MBUX Virtual Assistant revolutionizes the relationship between the vehicle and its occupants. Customers experience a more intuitive, more personal digital companion. The multi-agent approach enables complex, multi-turn conversations – like one has with a friend – and short-term memory. The MBUX Virtual Assistant appears as a living avatar on the Zero Layer. It features dynamic colors and animations, along with two new avatar designs: “LittleBenz” with its expressive face for a stronger emotional connection, as well as a human-like avatar.

The new generation MBUX interface now features an enhanced MBUX Zero Layer on the central multimedia display with the most recently used apps. In the app grid, apps can be moved and grouped into customizable folders, much like a smartphone. The growing portfolio of apps10 spans a variety of categories including audio, video, productivity and entertainment.

MBUX Superscreen: Immersive clarity for the driver, personalized entertainment for the front passenger

The new MBUX Superscreen, included standard, unites the 14.4-inch central display and the 12.3-inch front passenger display beneath a seamless glass surface. The 12.3-inch driver display, available with an optional 3D instrument cluster, visually floats behind the steering wheel with stunning clarity. The front passenger can enjoy a personalized entertainment experience — such as streaming, gaming or apps — even while the vehicle is in motion. Numerous safety precautions, such as eye-tracking technology, ensure that the driver is not distracted. Curated high-resolution ambient styles and visual modes by Mercedes‑Benz UI designers transform the MBUX Superscreen into an immersive, atmospheric digital space that enhances every journey.

Navigate with confidence: Intelligent MBUX Surround Navigation and MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display

MB.OS also enables the navigation experience based on Google Maps. Developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes‑Benz, the navigation solution is one of the first integrations of Google Cloud’s new Automotive AI Agent for in-vehicle conversation services with Google Maps.

New MBUX Surround Navigation offers a new dimension of integrated visual communication for the driver. It seamlessly integrates the driver assistance view with a 3D representation of the vehicle’s surroundings and real-time route guidance on the driver display. This is complemented by the MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display, which projects key guidance cues such as arrows, lane recommendations and points of interest seemingly onto the road ahead. This intuitive visual support helps drivers anticipate complex maneuvers with ease – particularly helpful for driving situations in dense city traffic or unfamiliar routes.

Ideas, organized: Productivity redefined

MBUX Notes and MBUX Calendar take mobile productivity to a new level^10,13. Imagine preparing for an important meeting while en route: customers can dictate their thoughts hands-free in multiple languages, and MBUX Notes — powered by AI — summarizes and structures them into clear bullet points. Ideas can then be shared via Gmail or Outlook, or synced to OneNote for further editing. With strong data protection and no permanent storage by third parties, notes remain secure.

First-class comfort in every seat

The art of control: Intuitive interfaces meet timeless materialsIn the new S‑Class, every journey becomes an experience of first‑class comfort and serene elegance. The “Welcome Home” feeling is tangible in every detail. Mercedes‑Benz has refined the interior in numerous areas to create a space where technology and craftsmanship intersect. The redesigned driver display, featuring the new MBUX Superscreen, integrates seamlessly into the cockpit. New elegant door trim elements and a reimagined center console showcase exquisite wood inlays and combine the finest materials with ergonomic design. The center console features new illuminated cup holders and easily accessible mobile phone compartments, allowing for the wireless charging of two smartphones side by side within reach both the driver and the front passenger. In addition, 100W USB-C charging ports ensure fast and convenient mobile device charging options for all occupants.¹⁴

The new multifunction steering wheel features improved ergonomics and intuitive controls. The new control concept incorporates a rocker for Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC¹⁵ as well as a roller for volume control, based on customer feedback. The capacitive switch panels are seamlessly integrated and provide tactile aids for better orientation.

Rear‑seat excellence: First-class productivity and entertainment

The two new MBUX remote controls for rear passengers provide effortless operation of vehicle functions such as climate control and window shades, as well as the larger 13.1-inch displays of the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System. These rear passenger displays also feature integrated HD cameras, making them ideal for video conferencing with Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Webex¹⁶.

In the new S‑Class, entertainment becomes effortless. The expanding portfolio of apps includes video streaming platforms such as Disney+^16,17 and RIDEVU by Sony Pictures Entertainment^16,17 – available on both the front passenger display and the dual displays of the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System.

Customers can choose two Burmester® surround sound systems: the standard Burmester® 3D Surround Sound system, now significantly enhanced with elegant silver speaker covers positioned in the mirror triangle, and the optional Burmester® High-End 4D Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos® – both transforming the interior into an immersive sound experience customers can both hear and feel.

First-class thermal comfort and cleaner cabin air for every journey with a new electric filter

The innovative new optional heated seat belts provide a soothing warmth, delivering a gentle, reassuring embrace for front passengers - transforming cold mornings into moments of pure comfort. This innovation enhances every journey in cold weather and adds a subtle touch of indulgence. Conveniently activated via the seat heating button, this subtle innovation encourages the driver and front passenger to not wear bulky winter jackets while inside the vehicle, allowing optimal belt fit for enhanced safety. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, ensuring every journey begins with a sense of well-being.

The S-Class also takes a significant step forward in climate comfort with new Digital Vent Control and an advanced electric filter. Elegantly illuminated air vents automatically adjust – front and rear – to the selected ventilation scenario, while the new electric cabin air filter ionizes and removes even extremely fine particles, up to 1,200 times smaller than a grain of table salt. This enables the cabin air to be purified approximately every 90 seconds¹⁸ to create a consistently cleaner environment for all occupants.

The S-Class debuts a new 20-inch multi-spoke wheel¹⁹ produced with innovative high-pressure casting for unmatched precision and design

Crafted using innovative high-pressure casting technology, this new multi-spoke wheel delivers sharper contours, reduced thickness and a striking 50-cross-spoke design - perfectly complementing the refined elegance of the new S‑Class. Finished in Tremolite Metallic High Sheen, it’s a distinctive option for those who demand individuality and timeless style.

Sublime driving experience: Precision, comfort and safety

More power and greater sophistication with the new generation of powertrains

The new S‑Class combines effortless performance with hallmark comfort and composure, thanks to a refined range of electrified powertrains. Customers can choose from a variety of engines, which contribute to the signature sublime smoothness that defines the S‑Class experience.

The new eight-cylinder engine (M 177 Evo) in the Mercedes‑Benz S 580 4MATIC delivers 530 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Engineering upgrades and mild-hybrid technology support seamless power delivery, energy recuperation and exceptional smoothness, while meeting the latest emissions standards. Thanks to a refined injection system, optimized intake and exhaust ports, revised intake camshaft, flat-plane crankshaft with a new firing order and improvements to the compressor wheel and turbocharger housing, the new V8 powertrain is more responsive, efficient and delivers an even more refined driving experience.

The new six‑cylinder engine (M 256 Evo) in the Mercedes‑Benz S 500 4MATIC now responds even more dynamically, with torque increased to 443 lb-ft, and briefly up to 472 lb-ft using overtorque. Overtorque enables a brief increase in torque to provide the S‑Class with more power in certain driving situations, like when passing or during dynamic acceleration. Other key improvements include a more powerful electric auxiliary compressor, revised intake camshaft and optimized intake and exhaust ports. Enhanced insulation measures provide superior noise and vibration damping, creating an exceptionally calm ambience for vehicle occupants.

Both engines feature a 23-hp integrated starter generator (ISG) that provides intelligent support at lower engine speeds. In combination with turbocharging, this ensures excellent power delivery. The mild-hybrid system includes the 48-volt electrical system, which enables functions such as “coasting,” boost or recuperation to maximize efficiency. The ISG also allows for operation of the start-stop function and transition from “coasting” with the engine off to powerful propulsion with engine power to be almost imperceptible to the driver. The intelligent interaction between the ISG and combustion engine ensures outstandingly smooth operation at idle.

The plug-in hybrid Mercedes‑Benz S 580e 4MATIC combines the new upgraded six-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor, increasing combined system output by 73 hp over the previous generation powertrain to 576 hp. Power delivery is also even smoother and more responsive.

Supreme ride comfort with intelligent damping and effortless maneuverability

Every journey in the new S‑Class is defined by benchmark quietness, refined comfort and effortless composure thanks to standard AIRMATIC air suspension or optional E‑ACTIVE BODY CONTROL. Both systems now feature intelligent damping, a sophisticated innovation that can automatically adjust the damping system before respective thresholds are reached. The system differentiates between short, sharp road irregularities such as potholes, which are detected and communicated as warnings, and longer speed bumps that induce vertical body movement, where proactive damping adjustment can measurably enhance comfort. This intelligent damper regulation works in combination with AIRMATIC and E‑ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, using Car-to-X²⁰ information from Mercedes‑Benz vehicles driving ahead which is transmitted in real-time to the Mercedes Intelligent Cloud²¹ and anonymized. Mercedes‑Benz has already applied for a patent for this in-house-developed feature.

4.5-degree rear-axle steering, now equipped standard, enhances maneuvering and agility. Optional 10-degree rear-axle steering reduces the turning circle by nearly 6.6 ft for even greater maneuverability at low speeds, such as effortlessly slipping into a tight parking space, navigating a narrow driveway or turning confidently in a crowded city center. At higher speeds, the rear wheels steer in parallel with the front wheels to deliver reassuring stability and calm composure.

Safety as a hallmark: Intelligent protection for every seat

The S‑Class has consistently been at the forefront of safety. From crumple zones, ABS and ESP® to today’s intelligent MB.DRIVE assistance systems. The S‑Class is the spearhead of this philosophy. Its enhanced adaptive restraint system includes PRE-SAFE® Impulse seat belt pretensioners, dual-stage load limiters, advanced airbag inflators and an active vent in the passenger airbag. A passenger knee airbag and optional rear airbags for a frontal impact expand protection to a global standard of up to 15 airbags, intelligently deployed by an airbag control unit that calculates the most beneficial response in every situation.

Rear passengers benefit from innovative optional beltbags that inflate during severe frontal impacts to reduce chest loads, while available rear airbags can deploy to reduce loads on head and neck. PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side in the front row can recognize critical side impact driving situations at an early stage activates and initiate precautionary protective measures to optimize occupant positioning. Models equipped with E‑ACTIVE BODY CONTROL can elevate the vehicle to distribute crash forces more effectively. Every detail—from restraint systems to intelligent deployment—underscores the S‑Class commitment to uncompromising safety.