New Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2027: silent evolution of the flagship

In short: The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class doesn't revolutionize the formula, but it refines almost everything that matters in a luxury sedan.

Quick context: This is the mid-cycle update of the current-generation S-Class, the model that sets the standard for comfort, technology, and prestige at Mercedes. It doesn't change the platform or the overall focus, but it introduces design tweaks, more electrification, and a clear streamlining of the lineup for what's to come.

The S-Class has always been the barometer of Mercedes' definition of luxury and technology. The current generation arrives for its 2027 update without revolutionizing the market, but refining its role in a market where pure electric vehicles and SUVs dominate headlines, though not always in actual high-end sales.

For this update, the brand has tweaked the bodywork, interior, and powertrain options, outlining how it intends to integrate the combustion-and-hybrid S-Class with the electric EQS. MotorTrend has had the opportunity to see and learn about the update in detail, which appears designed to extend the model's lifespan while the segment's next step in the electric era is decided.

What has really changed?

Visually, the 2027 S-Class is a very subtle evolution. The body maintains its proportions and presence, but receives a slightly redesigned front end, with revised bumpers and updated lighting. The changes are typical of a facelift: you have to look twice to notice the differences, but they serve to refresh the look without alienating existing customers.

The rear also features subtle details in the taillights and trim, maintaining a conservative approach compared to the bolder design language of other models in the range. The message is clear: the S-Class remains the car for those who prioritize sophisticated discretion over flashy design.

Inside, the architecture remains the same, with the large digital instrument cluster and vertical central display taking center stage. The update focuses on software, finishes, and perceived quality, with adjustments aimed at keeping the S competitive against the onslaught of technologically advanced luxury sedans, many of them electric.

Interior: classic luxury with refined technology

The cabin of the 2027 S-Class remains more of a luxury lounge on wheels than a futuristic showcase. MotorTrend highlights the overall feeling of incremental refinement: better materials in key areas, improved fit and finish, and a more polished integration of the screens into the overall design.

The infotainment system has been updated on its existing foundation, with new features and a revised user experience. It's not a radical interface overhaul, but rather an evolution of the software and connectivity, offering more services and improvements in response time and graphics, according to available information.

In the rear seats, the focus remains on the comfort of the passengers in charge. Reclining seat configurations, individual controls, and an environment designed for working or relaxing while traveling are still available, with the update focused on refining details rather than introducing groundbreaking solutions.

The technical aspects and the mechanical range

Platform and approach

The foundation of the 2027 S-Class remains unchanged: it retains the same platform as the current generation, optimized since its launch for electrified combustion engines and exceptional ride comfort. There's no leap to a completely new architecture, because this update is conceived as a facelift, not a brand-new generation.

Mercedes' strategy involves continuing to exploit a platform that still has potential, refining the suspension, electronics, and calibrations to maintain the high level of dynamic performance and sound insulation that has always characterized the model. MotorTrend doesn't mention radical changes to the chassis, but rather fine-tuning.

More electrification, less complexity

According to MotorTrend, the main focus across the range is progressive electrification and simplification. The 2027 S-Class retains combustion engines with electric assistance, and the brand is shifting its offerings towards mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, reducing the number of variants and providing clearer options for the customer.

No specific figures for power, torque, or electric range are provided in the available information, so it can only be stated that Mercedes continues to push electrification within the S-Class, but without turning it into a purely electric car; that role still falls to the EQS.

Positioning in relation to the EQS and the market

One of the key aspects of this update is how the combustion-electric S-Class and the electric EQS ​​coexist. MotorTrend emphasizes that the S-Class maintains a very clear role: it remains the brand's classic three-box flagship, for customers who want the best of Mercedes without sacrificing the traditional format and the range of a combustion engine vehicle.

The EQS, meanwhile, caters to buyers who want the luxury experience in an electric form. The 2027 facelift seems designed to allow both models to coexist for a few more years, without the S-Class making a definitive leap to 100% electric. Mercedes, at least with this update, isn't killing the combustion-engine luxury sedan; it's strengthening it.

In the global context, the brand faces a segment pressured by SUVs and new high-end electric offerings, including those from emerging Chinese brands. The 2027 S-Class is the conservative response: improving what already works well and relying on a loyal customer base, rather than trying to reinvent the concept.

Rivals and implicit comparison

BMW 7 Series and Audi A8 in the spotlight

Although MotorTrend doesn't offer a direct comparison with figures, the immediate natural rival remains the BMW 7 Series, especially its electrified variants, and the Audi A8, which is also nearing the end of its current cycle. The 2027 S-Class continues to be focused on the sedan that prioritizes maximum comfort, refinement, and corporate prestige.

While the 7 Series has embraced a more polarizing design and the i7 electric versions, Mercedes remains more conservative in its form, though equally technologically advanced. The approach, at least in this facelift, is less stylistically groundbreaking than BMW's.

Regarding Audi, the S-Class maintains its historical advantage as the benchmark model in the segment for many traditional customers. This update doesn't change that hierarchy, but it does highlight that the next big move in the segment will almost certainly be the definitive shift to new-generation electric platforms.

What remains to be known

MotorTrend has not yet provided a complete breakdown of the range, power outputs, specific electric ranges, or prices. There is also no detailed launch schedule by market, beyond the fact that it is a 2027 model, which suggests a phased introduction depending on the region and powertrain.

The available information doesn't confirm whether there will be significant changes to advanced driver assistance systems (such as expanded automated driving functions) beyond what's already available in the current S-Class, although software and capability updates are reasonable to expect. But until official details are released, this remains a possibility, not a confirmed fact.

It also remains to be seen to what extent Mercedes will maintain the separation of roles between the S-Class and EQS in the next generation, and whether this facelift will be the last major move for the combustion-engine S-Class before a more radical shift towards full electrification.

Key data

• Mid-cycle update of the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
• Model geared towards the 2027 model year, according to MotorTrend.
• Exterior changes focused on bumpers and lighting signature.
• Interior revised in materials, finishes and software, without total redesign.
• It maintains the current platform, without a new architecture.
• Greater emphasis on electrification (mild and plug-in hybrids).
• Range simplification strategy, with fewer scattered variants.
• It coexists with the electric EQS ​​as a traditional luxury option versus the 100% electric alternative.
• No confirmed figures for power or autonomy in the source.
• A clear focus on ride comfort and presentation, rather than on aesthetic innovation.

The important thing

• What's changing: refined design, improved interior and a more electrified range, while maintaining the platform and philosophy.
• Why it matters: It defines how Mercedes wants to extend the life of the classic luxury sedan in the face of electric propulsion.
• What remains to be confirmed: power figures, electric range, prices, final range and detailed launch schedule.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class plays it safe: it improves upon what it already did well and relies on a customer base that values ​​continuity, comfort, and understated elegance over radical aesthetic changes. From Cars&Pizza News' perspective, the move makes tactical sense, but it's clear that the real turning point will come with the next generation and its electric focus. Is this evolution enough to keep it the benchmark in the segment for a few more years?