2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Arrives To Reclaim Its Luxury Crown
The S gains some assertiveness in this latest update, but some may argue that the pre-facelift version was prettier.
Combining the best Mercedes-Benz technologies with fine craftsmanship, the 2027 S-Class has a gorgeous interior that now more closely resembles the one in the EQS. The MBUX Superscreen takes center stage, with a 14.4-inch center display combined with a 12.3-inch passenger-side display; this is a step up from the 12.8-inch touchscreen in the 2026 U.S.-spec S-Class.
The fourth-generation MBUX system debuts in the latest sedan, and is powered by the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). With AI integrations like ChatGPT4o and Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent, you can think of the S-Class as a digital companion. Whether you want answers to complex questions or you’d like the car to activate numerous functions by voice, it all happens seamlessly and quickly.
But it wouldn’t be an S-Class if it was all gadgetry and no luxury. New wood inlays, door trim elements, and even heated seatbelts are equipped. A new Digital Vent Control system with an electric filter purifies the air every 90 seconds, helping to keep any allergies at bay.
As ever, seating comfort is a priority, with heating/ventilation/massage all available. A new Leather Package includes upholstered rear seat cushions, and the new Pinnacle Plus Package can recline the executive rear seat by 43.5 degrees. Dual 13.1-inch displays are available for those at the back, and these have HD cameras to conduct easy video conferences.
Tech Highlights
Merc’s 22-page press release underlines the extent of the changes to the S-Class, many of which involve tech enhancements. Here’s a summary of some of the key changes:
- Digital Light headlights with micro-LED technology
- New MB.OS supercomputer with AI-powered capabilities
- Up to 15 airbags, including optional rear airbags
- Available heated seat belts
- Enhanced adaptive restraint system
- MB.Drive advanced driver-assistance systems
- New water-cooled computer with power for future functions
- Enhanced parking assistance
- New MBUX Surround Navigation with 3D view of vehicle surrounds
- Two new Burmester surround sound systems
Mercedes mentioned its MB.Drive Assist Pro will have market-specific driving assistance. The new CLA can already handle point-to-point autonomous driving in the U.S., so we expect at least this level of capability in the new S-Class.
“The S-Class has always defined automotive innovation,” said Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer. “With MB.OS and 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.”
What About The Powertrains?
Three models will be available: S500 4Matic, S580 4Matic, and S580 e 4Matic. The S500 and S580 e use a new 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, augmented by an electric motor in the latter. In the S580, there’s a new 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft—we can’t wait to hear what this V8 sounds like. The S500 and S580 are mild hybrids, with a 23-horsepower integrated starter generator. Here’s a look at how they compare.
A nine-speed automatic is equipped, and all models have an Airmatic air suspension with intelligent damping. Mercedes says the engines are more responsive, and it has somehow improved the vehicle’s already impressive noise, vibration, and harshness levels.
An even more potent S63 is coming, too, and has already been spied.
Final Thoughts
Pricing for the new S-Class hasn’t been shared yet, but the 2026 model starts at $119,500, so it should be a little pricier than that when it goes on sale later this year.
There’s a lot to take in, as is the case with every S-Class update, but the sedan is expected to once again be sublime to drive and be driven in. The new MBUX and MB.OS systems will undoubtedly be faster than ever, but we’ll have to wait to drive the car to see how intuitive everything is.
We look forward to a heated battle with the BMW 7 Series soon as Mercedes looks intent to remind everyone who the boss is in the luxury world.
