The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Arrives Featuring a Bold Flat-Plane V8 Engine

Key Highlights

• The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class unveils refreshed styling, advanced tech upgrades, and stronger powertrains.
• A groundbreaking flat-plane-crank V8 engine delivers unexpected performance in this luxury flagship.
• Refined interior displays and rear-seat entertainment bring the cabin into the future.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication for over seven decades. Despite rising competition from brands like BMW and Genesis, it continues to set the benchmark in the luxury sedan market.

Mercedes-Benz is steadfast in maintaining its leadership as it launches the 2027 S-Class model.

Appearance & Interior Innovations

The 2027 S-Class retains the classic Mercedes design language while incorporating subtle new details. Its signature headlights flank a slightly enlarged grille, now adorned with three-pointed star motifs on each vertical slat, adding an elegant touch of extravagance.

The rear borrows styling cues from the newest E-Class, featuring horizontally stretched taillights that embed three star-shaped light elements, connected by a slim chrome strip across the trunk. Chrome accents also highlight the dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear bumper.

The side profile stays true to the S-Class heritage with a spacious cabin glasshouse and a smoothly flowing roofline that merges seamlessly into the trunk. Standard 19-inch wheels with intricate spokes complete the sophisticated exterior.

Inside, the cabin receives thoughtful refinements. The once-dominant Hyperscreen setup has been replaced with a "Superscreen" configuration, splitting the instrument cluster and central touchscreen into distinct displays.

This includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 14.3-inch central touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display running the latest MBUX system enhanced with generative AI and built-in Google Maps.

Rear passengers benefit from two 13.1-inch displays mounted on the front seat backs, along with detachable MBUX remotes. Notably, Mercedes now supports native streaming apps such as Disney+ and YouTube directly through the MBUX interface.

Engine & Performance Breakthroughs

The most striking mechanical update is under the hood of the S580 variant. It features a newly developed 4.0-liter V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft — a rare choice for a luxury sedan. This engine delivers 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, aided by a mild-hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator that adds 23 horsepower. The estimated sprint from 0 to 60 mph is an impressive 3.9 seconds.

The base S500 model comes equipped with a new inline-six engine producing 442 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, which can increase to 472 lb-ft with an overtorque feature. This model accelerates to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds and electronically limits top speed to 130 mph.

Mercedes continues to offer a plug-in hybrid option in the form of the S580e, combining an updated inline-six with an electric motor for a combined output of 576 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. While the official electric-only range is not yet disclosed, it is expected to surpass the previous 46 miles.

All models use a nine-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels. Standard Airmatic air suspension ensures ride comfort across the range, with optional E-Active Body Control adaptive damping available.

Expected Pricing and Launch Details

Mercedes-Benz has yet to announce pricing for the 2027 S-Class. Considering the 2026 model starts around $120,850, a similar or higher price point is anticipated.

Additional specifications and pricing details will be shared closer to the vehicle’s release later this year.

Our View: While the exterior changes are subtle, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class impresses with its advanced tech and the unexpected addition of a flat-plane V8, making it potentially the most refined iteration of this luxury sedan to date.