Mercedes-Benz announces 2027 S-Class updates and classic status for 1997 models

Mercedes-Benz is introducing significant updates to its flagship S-Class for 2027. The luxury sedan will feature approximately 2,700 new or revised parts, including a new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine with a mild hybrid system designed for quiet operation. Aesthetic and technological upgrades include a new infotainment operating system, enhanced driver assistance systems, and a redesigned exterior featuring over 50 stars on the grille and star-shaped daytime running lights.

In a separate development regarding the brand's heritage, several Mercedes-Benz models produced in 1997 will qualify for classic vehicle status in Germany in 2027. Eligible models include the first-generation A-Class (W168), the M-Class SUV (W163), and the CLK coupe (C208). Owners of these vehicles can apply for special 'H-plates,' which offer benefits such as tax relief, lower insurance premiums, and access to urban environmental zones.