The hype surrounding the release of the “new” S-Class is exactly that—overhyped. The media frenzy, eager to lavish praise, felt uncomfortably unhinged, almost forced, like North Koreans clapping in forced, fearful delight for their Dear Leader. In reality, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class isn’t new for 2026; it’s simply an overhaul, an upgrade, and nothing more.

When I read the press release, it felt like wading through a PhD dissertation—more akin to a disinformation campaign than a product announcement. It threw out an overwhelming amount of information to mask some uncomfortable truths. In its primary market, China, S-Class sales plummeted by 37% in 2025.

This mid-life cycle update is exactly that—a typical refresh. It feels like a form of planned obsolescence until the all-new generation arrives. There are minor exterior design tweaks and interior upgrades; unsurprisingly, the interior receives the biggest update with the introduction of the Mercedes Hyperscreen infotainment system.

All in all, Mercedes claims to have made around 50% improvements for the 2026 refresh. A new-generation V8 has been introduced, while the V6 mild-hybrid and PHEV variants remain, becoming ever more efficient and slightly more powerful—or so we’re told.

But honestly, given the amount of hype this upgrade has received, you’d think it was the second coming. Most S-Class buyers aren’t interested in technical specifications; they care about the badge and the status.

And they’re probably not even bothered by the price. £100,000 is the new normal for an executive luxury saloon—one that is beginning to lose the commanding aura it once carried with such ease.