Mercedes-Benz may postpone the premieres of the updated S-Class and Maybach until 2026
Mercedes-Benz is considering an unconventional approach for the refreshed S-Class: the debuts of the standard version and the Mercedes-Maybach could take place at a significant interval. According to insiders, the facelifted S-Class will be unveiled in early 2026, while the Maybach will be intentionally delayed until April of the same year, making its launch a separate and more prestigious event.
The company believes that a wait of several months is not a major issue for customers in the ultra-luxury segment. Especially since delivery times for top-of-the-line Mercedes models often stretch to a year or more. The extra time is also being used for an extended testing program—one comparable in duration to the testing of all-new vehicles. This indicates more extensive refinements than those typically seen in a standard facelift.
In Stuttgart, they decided not to invest in an entirely new generation of the S-Class, focusing instead on a significantly revised update to the current model. Notable but subtle exterior changes, improved ride quality, and an even more comfortable interior are expected. In this context, the delay of the Maybach’s debut seems like a logical move—it should receive maximum attention as the flagship of the lineup.
Official dates have not yet been confirmed; clarity is expected toward the end of January 2026. However, spy photos have already revealed some of the updates: both the S-Class and the Maybach will feature new lighting with the brand’s signature “star” elements—two stars in the headlights and three in each taillight. At the same time, Mercedes does not want the Maybach premiere to get lost amid other high-profile new releases.
The Shanghai Auto Show is cited as a likely venue for a separate unveiling. China remains a key market for Maybach, and the show itself is one of the world’s premier platforms for luxury sedans. An additional advantage will be avoiding direct competition with the updated BMW 7 Series, which rivals traditionally unveil at the same event.
The technologically updated S-Class and Maybach will take a significant step forward. The introduction of Level 2++ driver-assistance systems and Level 3 autonomous driving is expected, including highway driving with automatic lane changes at speeds up to 110 km/h, with plans to increase the speed limit further. In urban areas, the systems will actively use navigation data and digital maps—technologies Mercedes has been refining in China for some time.
The Maybach engine lineup will remain largely unchanged after the facelift. The S 580 e plug-in hybrid will receive a higher-capacity battery, allowing it to travel about 100 km on electric power alone. Meanwhile, the legendary 6.0-liter V12 with 612 l.s. will remain unchanged—the brand is focusing not on environmental experiments, but on status and technical superiority.
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