AMG S-Class Updates

New Look

The Mercedes-AMG S-Class is getting a facelift for 2026, and it’s already been spotted in testing. The big news? This luxury sedan is catching up with the rest of the Mercedes lineup with some snazzy new star-pattern daytime running lights (DRLs) in both the front and rear. This is one of the changes that stand out on the S63 AMG prototype, highlighting its place in the upper echelons of performance luxury.

Power and Tech

Underneath the hood, the S63 continues to feature the same powerhouse introduced in the 2024 model year—a robust 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, optimized with a plug-in hybrid system. This setup punches out a hefty 791 horsepower and an astonishing torque of 1,055 lb-ft. It’s not only about raw power; this hybrid V8 grants the S63 some eco-friendly credibility with its electric assist, though the driving range on electricity alone could see improvements.

As for the drive, it’s typical of a high-performance AMG. With the kind of grunt this engine offers, the S63 doesn’t just glide down the road; it commands respect. The V8’s roar when floored is a symphony for speed enthusiasts and provides a thrilling experience that few in its class can match. It’s like comparing a heavyweight boxer to a welterweight—each punch is unforgettable.

Style Meets Innovation

Stylistically, the updated model now sports a refreshed grille, akin to the deeply embedded vertical slats featured on the current S63, but with darker accents that complement lighter paint jobs beautifully. One curious addition spotted on this prototype is an advanced driver-assist system (ADAS), marked by a discreet camera placed on the front fender, hinting at more tech-savvy features behind those elegant panels.

Currently, the S-Class includes Lidar technology, enabling true Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, and it continues to push boundaries in the luxury and tech arenas. Likely, these tech features will see refinements once the facelifted version rolls out officially.

Future Thoughts

While the core powertrain might remain, there is a strong expectation that Mercedes-AMG will enhance the battery and charging system, considering the current setup’s modest 16-mile electric-only range on a 10.4 kWh battery. With rivals pushing the envelope on electric performance and efficiency, the next-gen S63 could see substantial gains in this department, ready for its expected 2026 release.

Potentially more exciting is the whisper of a new AMG-developed flat-plane crank V8, rumored to include 48-volt hybrid assistance, set to grace other models. Whether this powertrain will migrate to the AMG S-Class is yet to be confirmed, but it adds more intrigue to the mix.

In Summary

The upcoming facelift for the AMG S-Class promises more than just aesthetic upgrades. With a celebrated engine carried forward and the possibility of new tech advancements, this luxury sedan continues to embody the benchmark of performance and technology. These changes set the stage for the S63 to maintain its status as a top choice for those seeking the perfect blend of power, luxury, and cutting-edge innovation.