Mercedes-Benz India have launched the S-Class facelift in India at a price of Rs. 2.20 crore ex showroom. The flagship sedan will be sold in India via the CBU route and is offered only as a plug in hybrid petrol. Customers can book the car starting today with deliveries scheduled to begin from Q4 2026. The updated S-Class was globally unveiled earlier this year and Mercedes state that this is the most comprehensive update within a single S-Class generation. More than 50 per cent of the S-Class, comprising over 2700 components, has been newly developed, updated or refined. The S 450 e also marks Mercedes-Benz’s first ever plug in hybrid in the flagship S-Class in India.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift – Exterior Design
The exterior of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been updated with a stronger visual emphasis on lighting and front end presence. The most noticeable change is the revised radiator grille, which is now larger and incorporates illuminated elements for the first time on the S-Class. An illuminated Mercedes star on the bonnet is also available.
The headlamp design has been revised with new digital light units featuring a twin star DRL signature. Mercedes state that the updated lighting hardware increases illumination range and resolution, improving night time visibility while reducing glare for other road users. At the rear, the tail lamps feature a revised internal design with three star shaped elements.
New wheel designs and additional exterior colour options have been introduced, including matte and high gloss finishes. There is also a MANUFAKTUR variant on offer, which alters bumper designs and wheel choices without any mechanical changes.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift – Interior Design and Features
Inside, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift introduces a revised digital and cabin layout that reflects the brand’s current focus on software led functionality and rear seat comfort. The updated model features the latest MBUX Superscreen layout, which integrates the central 14.1 inch infotainment display and a 12.3 inch front passenger screen beneath a single glass surface.
A fully digital 12.3 inch instrument cluster remains standard, with optional three dimensional display functionality depending on market and variant. Rear passengers are equipped with individual 13.1 inch screens paired with a dedicated tablet for control. Audio is handled by a 3D Burmester surround speaker system or an optional 4D Burmester surround sound system with integrated Dolby Atmos.
The latest Mercedes-Benz operating system forms the backbone of the infotainment and vehicle control architecture. The system supports voice based interaction, configurable menus and over the air software updates for selected functions. Rear seat focused features continue to be a priority, particularly in long wheelbase versions, with options such as individual rear seats, extended legroom, fold out tables and rear seat entertainment systems. There is also an option for integrated interior cameras that enable video conferencing functionality for rear passengers.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift – Powertrain
The S-Class facelift will be available only as a plug in hybrid petrol, with no confirmation yet on a diesel variant. The S 450 e is Mercedes-Benz’s first plug in hybrid in the flagship S-Class in India.
At the heart of the S 450 e is a 3.0 litre M256 Evo inline six turbo petrol engine, now Euro 7 compliant, producing 326 hp and 540 Nm. This is paired with a 120 kW electric motor positioned between the engine and the 9 speed automatic transmission. The combined system output stands at 435 hp and 680 Nm, making it more powerful than the earlier S 450 petrol variant.
The S 450 e features a 22 kWh lithium ion battery that provides a pure electric range of around 115 km as per WLTP. Performance figures include 0 to 100 km per hour in 5.7 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km per hour. The model comes with AIRMATIC air suspension and rear axle steering as standard. Notably, the new S-Class is rear wheel drive, unlike its predecessor which featured all wheel drive.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift – Safety and Variants
Safety remains a key highlight of the S-Class facelift, with advanced protection systems for all occupants. The model continues Mercedes-Benz’s focus on safety through an enhanced adaptive restraint system, including PRE SAFE impulse belt pretensioners and up to 15 airbags, which is being introduced in India for the first time.
The S 450 e Launch Edition is priced at Rs. 2.20 crore, while the S 450 e MANUFAKTUR Edition starts from Rs. 2.38 crore, both ex showroom. Bookings are now open, with deliveries set to begin from Q4 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift – Market Positioning and Rivals
The primary rival to the new S-Class facelift in India remains the BMW 7 Series. The 7 Series is currently offered with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, whereas the S-Class is now limited to a plug in hybrid petrol option. The BMW 7 Series also received a global update earlier this year, and the facelifted version is expected to launch in India later this year.
For reference, Mercedes-Benz had initially introduced the pre facelift S-Class in India via the CBU route before later local assembly was commenced. Whether the brand will follow a similar strategy with the updated model remains to be seen. There is also no word from Mercedes-Benz on the introduction of a diesel or standard petrol variant at this stage.