The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has debuted, blending familiar luxury with surprising performance upgrades and cutting-edge technology. While retaining its iconic status, the latest iteration features a distinctive new engine option alongside refined cabin tech – reaffirming Mercedes’ dominance in the premium sedan segment.
Design and Exterior Updates
The 2027 S-Class maintains the design language that has defined it for over seven decades. The exterior boasts sharper bumper details, a slightly larger grille, and the striking addition of three-pointed stars embedded within the vertical slats. The rear end draws inspiration from the latest E-Class, featuring horizontally oriented taillights with star-shaped lighting elements. Standard 19-inch wheels complete the premium look.
These changes aren’t just aesthetic; they represent a subtle evolution of a timeless design. The S-Class has always been a statement, and the 2027 model builds on that foundation without radical departures.
Interior: Superscreen and Rear-Seat Entertainment
Inside, the once-dominant Hyperscreen has been reimagined as the “Superscreen,” with distinct 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.3-inch central touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display. The system runs the latest MBUX interface, incorporating generative AI and native Google Maps integration.
Rear passengers now have access to dual 13.1-inch displays mounted to the front seatbacks, along with detachable MBUX remotes. For the first time, Mercedes offers direct access to apps like Disney+ and YouTube through the MBUX system, elevating rear-seat entertainment to a new level.
These upgrades aren’t merely about convenience; they reflect the growing demand for in-car entertainment and connectivity, particularly in the luxury segment.
Performance: The Surprise V8
Perhaps the most significant change under the hood is the introduction of a new 4.0-liter V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft in the S580 model. This configuration, traditionally found in performance cars, delivers 530 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, boosted by a mild-hybrid system. The S580 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
The base S500 receives a new inline-six engine producing 442 hp, with an optional “overtorque” function increasing output to 472 lb-ft. The plug-in hybrid S580e combines an updated inline-six with an electric motor for a combined 576 horsepower and 553 lb-ft.
The inclusion of a flat-plane crank V8 in a luxury sedan is unexpected. This choice suggests Mercedes is catering to buyers who demand both refinement and performance, blurring the lines between traditional luxury and sports car dynamics.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing for the 2027 S-Class has not been announced, but given the current starting price of $120,850 for the 2026 model, it is unlikely to be cheaper. Further details, including final pricing and specifications, will be revealed closer to the on-sale date later this year.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents a refined evolution of an automotive icon. By combining subtle design updates with powerful engine options and cutting-edge technology, Mercedes continues to set the standard for luxury sedans.
