Mercedes Prepares for a Wave of New Car Launches in 2026The German luxury automaker describes the rollout as the largest product and technology launch program it has ever undertaken, signaling a major push to refresh its portfolio and accelerate its transition to electrification.
The action begins later this month, with the facelifted S-Class set to be unveiled on January 29. Shortly after, Mercedes will introduce an updated Maybach S-Class, expected to feature an even longer wheelbase and retain a V12 engine, reinforcing its ultra-luxury positioning.
Beyond the flagship sedan, Mercedes plans to debut the first-ever fully electric C-Class. This battery-electric model is expected to share its technical foundation with the upcoming electric GLC, a crossover that has already generated enough demand to keep production running through the second half of the year.
SUVs will also see significant updates. The GLE and GLS are both scheduled for mid-cycle refreshes, while the next-generation GLA will arrive in 2026 with an electric variant. The new GLA will replace the EQA as Mercedes moves toward a unified design and product strategy that combines internal combustion and electric models under a single lineup—a response to criticism of the brand’s earlier, overly streamlined EV styling.
2025 Mercedes-AMG GT XX concept Photo by: Mercedes-AMG
AMG will play a major role in Mercedes’ 2026 push as well. More than a decade after the SLS AMG Electric Drive, the performance division will launch its first electric model built on a dedicated EV platform. Previewed by the GT XX concept, the new electric super sedan will effectively replace the now-discontinued AMG GT 4-Door Coupe. An electric SUV based on the same architecture is also planned, though its debut is expected no earlier than 2027.
There may be more surprises before the year is out. Mercedes has already hinted at the return of the G-Class Cabriolet, suggesting the open-top off-roader could make its comeback following a strong year for the G-Class, which recorded nearly 50,000 units sold in 2025.
Despite a challenging 2025 that saw global deliveries fall 9% to about 1.8 million vehicles, Mercedes is betting that this influx of new models will help reverse the trend. The year 2026 will mark the first full sales year for the new CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLB, and electric GLC. There is also speculation that the combustion-powered C-Class could receive a facelift, potentially addressing long-standing criticism of the four-cylinder AMG C63.
2026 Mercedes S-Class facelift Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Competition in the luxury segment is intensifying. BMW is preparing to launch the electric i3 sedan to rival the electric C-Class, alongside new generations of the 3 Series and X5. Audi, meanwhile, has confirmed updates to the Q7, the introduction of the first-ever Q9, and a new entry-level electric vehicle.
With this ambitious slate of launches, Mercedes-Benz is signaling its intent to reclaim momentum and strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive premium car market.