Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift PHEV Launched in India, Priced Starting at ₹2.20 Crore

Mercedes-Benz has launched the 2026 S-Class facelift in India, bringing a comprehensive update to the current generation of the automaker’s flagship sedan. Mercedes-Benz says the new 2026 S-Class facelift has 50 per cent new components, and it arrives in India with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Prices for the new S 450e start at ₹2.20 crore and go up to ₹2.38 crore (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open. 

Powering the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class PHEV is a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, with a 22 kWh battery pack and a rear-mounter electric motor. The setup delivers a combined output of 429 bhp and 680 Nm of peak torque. There's a 9-speed automatic transmission. Zero-100 kmph comes up in 5.9 seconds with power going only to the rear wheels. The plug-in hybrid powertrain lets this luxury saloon cruise on electric propulsion alone, with a range of 115 km.  

Visually, the 2026 S-Class facelift gets revisions to the bodywork, particularly at the front. The grille has grown in proportions and has tiny illuminated three-pointed stars between the horizontal lines. The three-pointed star on the bonnet is illuminated as well. The headlamps have been reworked, and Mercedes-Benz claims they are now 40 per cent brighter than those of the previous iteration. The cluster also houses new three-pointed star LED DRLs. The front bumper features new chrome bezels around the air intakes.

The saloon's profile remains unchanged save for its new 18-inch alloy wheels, and additional cameras on the front fenders and ORVMs. The rear profile remains largely identical as well, save for the new three-pointed star DRLs and a slimmer chrome garnish on the boot lid. The rear bumper also has new chrome embellishments, as part of the revisions.

The cabin features big upgrades, going tech-first. Wooden inlays on the dashboard have been replaced by a new ‘Superscreen’ comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch central infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display. The new system runs the latest MB.OS software, integrating most in-car functions.

The rear seat experience remains largely the same as before, with 43.5-degree reclining seats, heating and ventilation, as well as massage functions. The 7-inch tablet has been replaced with two smartphone sized touchscreen units to control rear seat functions. Other upgrades include a new steering wheel with tactile controls, dual wireless charging pads, ambient lighting, and turbine-style AC vents.

The new S-Class also features a dual-pane sunroof, Level 2++ ADAS, dual 13.6-inch rear entertainment screens, a new AI assistant, over-the-air (OTA) updates, four-zone climate control, upgraded auto-park assist, rear-wheel steering, air suspension, and more. Buyers can choose from a plethora of personalisation options across colours, upholstery, and more.