2027 S Class Update What Mercedes Changed Under the Hood

The 2027 Mercedes Benz S Class is not just a light refresh. It represents a careful evolution of one of the most respected luxury sedans in the world. Under the surface, the biggest story is not the screens or the styling tweaks. It is the engines. Mercedes has reworked its core powertrains and introduced evolved versions of the M177, M256, and OM656 engines, all designed to blend performance, refinement, and stricter emissions compliance.

Let us start with the M177 EVO. This is the 4.0 liter twin turbocharged V8 that powers the S 580. In the updated S Class, this engine delivers 530 horsepower and 553 pound feet of torque. That is serious performance for a full size luxury sedan. What makes this version special is the internal refinement. The revised configuration and updated combustion strategy improve throttle response while maintaining the smooth character S Class buyers expect. Paired with a 48 volt mild hybrid system, the V8 gains additional efficiency and smoother stop start behavior without losing its commanding presence

For markets where diesel remains important, the OM656 EVO continues to play a key role. This 3.0 liter inline six diesel engine has been updated to meet stricter emissions standards. One of the most interesting upgrades is the introduction of an electrically heated catalytic converter, designed to reduce emissions during cold starts. That is a technical detail most drivers will never see, but it makes a real difference in environmental performance. Combined with the mild hybrid system, the diesel S Class offers long range capability and impressive efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

The 2027 S Class also continues to offer a plug in hybrid model based on the inline six engine. In the S 580e, total system output reaches 576 horsepower, blending electric torque with smooth combustion power. For many buyers, this may be the sweet spot between performance and efficiency.

What stands out most is how Mercedes continues to refine rather than reinvent. The engines are more efficient, more powerful, and cleaner, yet they still deliver the quiet authority that defines the S Class experience. It is not about chasing numbers alone. It is about preserving a legacy while preparing for a future shaped by electrification.