Powering the India-spec S 450e is a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine paired with a rear-mounted electric motor and a 22kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Combined output stands at 435hp and 680Nm, delivered to the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes claims the S 450e can accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds while delivering an electric-only range of up to 115km. The battery supports DC fast charging and can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 20 minutes using a 60kW charger. The sedan has a claimed WLTP fuel efficiency figure of 32.2kmpl.

The plug-in hybrid setup is particularly significant because it allows owners to complete most daily city commutes entirely on electric power while retaining the long-distance usability of a conventional petrol luxury sedan.

 Globally, Mercedes also offers the facelifted S-Class with mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines, and the S 450 4MATIC mild-hybrid variant is expected to join the Indian range later.

Mercedes-Benz has focused heavily on enhancing rear-seat comfort, a crucial factor for chauffeur-driven luxury sedan buyers. 

The cabin receives a revised dashboard design, updated centre console elements and new trim finishes. The long-wheelbase layout ensures limousine-like rear legroom, while the optional Executive Rear Seat package allows rear occupants to recline up to 43.5 degrees.

All seats can be equipped with heating, ventilation and multiple massage programmes. Mercedes says cabin insulation has been improved further to reduce noise, vibration and harshness levels.

 Ambient lighting now extends across almost every section of the interior, including the dashboard, centre console, door pads, armrests, cupholders, footwells and rear-seat area.

Additional upgrades include enhanced facial recognition technology, cabin monitoring functions and improved voice interaction through the latest operating system. Mercedes has also replaced the traditional rear control tablet with two smartphone-style touch controllers for easier access to comfort functions.

Infotainment

The biggest change inside the S-Class is the introduction of the new MBUX Superscreen setup. The system combines a 14.4-inch OLED central touchscreen with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch passenger display. All screens operate on Mercedes-Benz's latest MB.OS software architecture, enabling faster processing and deeper AI integration.

The upgraded MBUX virtual assistant offers more natural voice interaction and personalised responses. Google Maps navigation is integrated into the augmented reality head-up display, allowing navigation prompts to appear directly in the driver's field of vision.

Rear passengers receive dual 13.1-inch entertainment screens capable of streaming content, video conferencing and gaming. 

The system also supports over-the-air updates, ensuring new features can be added throughout ownership. Other highlights include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected-car technology, wireless charging and the premium Burmester 4D audio system. 

The dashboard camera can also be used for video calls and user identification via facial recognition.

While retaining its classic S-Class proportions, the facelifted model features a more imposing front fascia. The grille is larger than before and incorporates chrome-finished three-pointed star elements, while buyers can also opt for an illuminated grille surround. 

The Digital Light LED headlamps now feature star-shaped lighting graphics that mirror the Mercedes-Benz logo. At the rear, redesigned LED tail lamps incorporate illuminated star motifs and dynamic welcome and goodbye animations.

The front bumper has been redesigned with larger air intakes that give the luxury sedan a more commanding road presence. 

New alloy wheel designs have also been introduced, with Mercedes offering additional paint options and extensive Manufaktur customisation possibilities. Despite the visual updates, the S-Class continues to be offered in long-wheelbase form for India, measuring over 5.3 metres in length and featuring a wheelbase of more than 3.2 metres.

The 2026 S-Class continues to showcase Mercedes-Benz's latest safety technologies. It comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, surround-view cameras and multiple airbags, including dedicated rear seatbelt airbags.

Mercedes also equips the sedan with adaptive air suspension and E-Active Body Control technology, which can proactively adjust suspension settings based on road conditions. The system continuously analyses driving inputs and surface conditions to maximise ride comfort and stability. 

Rear-wheel steering comes as standard, with the rear wheels capable of turning by up to 4.5 degrees. Buyers can optionally upgrade to a 10-degree rear-wheel steering system that significantly reduces the turning circle, making the large limousine easier to manoeuvre in urban environments.

Mercedes-Benz has opened bookings for the new S-Class across its dealership network in India. Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin around Diwali during the fourth quarter of 2026.

The entry-level Launch Edition Exclusive Line is priced at Rs 2.20 crore (ex-showroom), while the range-topping Manufaktur Edition AMG Line costs Rs 2.38 crore. Compared to the outgoing S-Class, the starting price has increased by approximately Rs 35 lakh.

The AMG Line version adds sportier exterior styling elements, unique alloy wheels and exclusive trim finishes, while the Manufaktur package allows customers to choose from a wide selection of bespoke paint finishes, upholstery options and interior materials. 

The new S-Class primarily rivals the BMW 7 Series in India, while also serving as a more traditional chauffeur-focused alternative to the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS.