Mercedes-Benz has partially revealed its next-generation S-Class in the UAE, serving as a robotaxi prototype. These driverless taxis are intended to act as a rolling laboratory for Mercedes-Benz’s autonomous technology, giving the company real-world testing opportunities before broader deployment.
Alongside the autonomous capabilities, the facelifted S-Class is expected to receive powertrain updates, and the upgraded MB.OS will enable hands-free driving with level 4 autonomy.
Believe it or not, the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class is already five years old. Internally known as the W223, it made its online world premiere in late 2020 for the 2021 model year and has undergone incremental updates since.
Model life cycles in the luxury sedan segment are fairly predictable, and after four model years, it’s time for the flagship to receive a refresh. The facelifted S-Class was recently spotted wearing, well, not-so-subtle camouflage.
Weeks after these initial sightings, Mercedes-Benz released what it called “official spy photos” of the new S-Class. The automaker used the vehicle to launch its robotaxi pilot program in Abu Dhabi, although the front end is still partially covered.
These autonomous taxis are expected to begin operating on roads in the Middle East, presumably after the S-Class is fully unveiled sometime in the first quarter of 2026.
The rear of the car appears to be less camouflaged, but Mercedes-Benz conveniently did not release photos from that angle. Even so, production headlights are visible, showcasing the three-pointed star LED signature, which suggests updated light clusters.
Observers can also anticipate new front and rear bumpers, as well as a refreshed grille, though wheel options appear to remain unchanged.
Although the partially covered S-Class has made its public debut, Mercedes-Benz has not shared any specifications yet. Most of the current powertrain lineup is expected to carry over, likely with minor updates for increased efficiency.
This includes turbocharged mild-hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and, in European markets, diesel variants. With autonomous technology being trialed in these luxury taxis, some of it could eventually be integrated into customer vehicles.
Nvidia is reportedly finalizing the level 4 autonomous system, which utilizes nine radars, one lidar sensor, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and fourteen high-definition cameras. The MB.OS will receive a substantial update to support hands-free driving and additional features.
From the spy photos, it’s worth noting that physical buttons are returning to the S-Class, resembling the layout found in the CLA and GLB models, a change that has been welcomed by Mercedes enthusiasts. The dashboard is also expected to receive minor tweaks, potentially including updates to the infotainment system graphics.
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