The Updated AMG S-Class Conceals More Than Just New Headlights | Carscoops

      The refreshed Mercedes-AMG S-Class has been spotted testing for the first time.

      The luxury sedan features Mercedes' new star-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs) in both the front and rear light units.

      The current plug-in hybrid V8, which delivers 791 hp from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine, is expected to be retained.

      Mercedes is implementing the star design across nearly its entire lineup, and the same update is being applied to AMG models. This includes the star-pattern DRLs seen on the S63 AMG prototype captured by our spy photographers for the first time.

      Like its non-performance counterpart, the S63 includes two star-shaped DRLs in each of the four light units at both the front and rear. While some newer Benz models, like the CLA, feature a single star per light cluster, the S-Class is significantly larger and pricier. The current AMG S63 measures over 210.1 inches (5,340 mm) in length and is priced at nearly $190,000.

      The lower bumper of the prototype, equipped with more aggressive side air intakes than the standard S-Class, appears consistent with that of the 2025 S63. However, we anticipate noticeable changes to the grille once the camouflage is removed and the performance sedan makes its official debut, likely in early 2026, following the launch of the regular S-Class.

      Reports indicate that the Panamericana vertical grille will resemble the one found on the current S63, but the updated version will feature a dark surround, similar to that on the smaller E53 AMG, which will stand out on lighter-colored cars.

      In terms of newer technology, this prototype features a small camera situated high on the front fender, just below the A-pillar. This addition has been seen on some, but not all, of the previous facelifted S-Class test vehicles we've encountered, and is likely part of a new advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS).

      The S-Class already incorporates Lidar technology, making it one of the few production cars capable of true hands-free and eyes-off Level 3 autonomous driving. However, this prototype does not visibly display a Lidar unit on the roof.

      As for the powertrain, AMG recently introduced a new plug-in hybrid setup for the S63 for the 2024 model year, so it's likely to remain largely unchanged. This system consists of an electrically assisted version of AMG’s 4.0-liter turbo V8, producing 791 hp (802 PS) and an impressive 1,055 lb-ft (1,430 Nm) of torque.

      What might receive an upgrade is the battery and charging system. The current S63 includes a small 10.4 kWh battery, which only provides a limited EPA range of 16 miles (26 km) and can handle a mere 3.7 kW of charging. These specifications fall short compared to other modern PHEVs and could see improvements when the new model is launched in 2026.

      Additionally, we have heard that AMG is developing a new flat-plane crank V8 engine with 48-volt hybrid assistance, but this engine is reportedly intended for different models, including the first-ever CLE 63 AMG coupe and convertible, as well as the GT 4-Door Coupe. It remains to be seen if this engine will also be featured in the performance S-Class.