The heavily updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class luxury sedan has debuted five years after the current W223-series model debuted in 2021. Representing the largest mid-life update the company has ever applied to a model, the upgraded S-Class has been given light exterior changes and more comprehensive updates under the skin, including a new dashboard and upgraded drivetrains, including a new flat-plane-crank V8 engine. Visually, the updated S-Class has been given new front end detailing with star icons in the headlights, an optionally-illuminated three-pointed star grille emblem, a 20 per cent larger grille with a black surround, revised bumpers and new alloy wheels up to 20-inches in size. The new V8 engine is unusual because flat-plane V8s are usually reserved for high-end supercars thanks to their aural drama, higher revving capability and added lightness, compared with a cross-plane V8 engine (which the pre-updated S-Class features), but Mercedes-Benz has fitted one to its updated luxury flagship. Mercedes-Benz Australia is yet to confirm local timing and specifications for the facelifted S-Class, but it’s likely to land before the end of 2026.