Get ready for a thrilling ride as Mercedes-Benz gears up to revolutionize its iconic S-Class sedan! The year 2026 promises an exciting overhaul, bringing a powerful new engine and a fresh design to this legendary vehicle.
But here's where it gets controversial... Mercedes-Benz is reportedly adopting a flat-plane crankshaft for its V8 engine, a move that's sure to spark debates among automotive enthusiasts. This innovative crankshaft design not only gives the engine a unique sound but also enhances performance, reducing weight and allowing it to spin faster.
The current seventh-generation S-Class is about to undergo a significant transformation, as confirmed by Autocar. Along with an updated exterior and upgraded cabin, the S-Class will be powered by a more potent V8 engine, a decision that Mercedes-Benz describes as the "most extensive update in one generation."
Mercedes-AMG has already embraced the flat-plane crank with its 2020 AMG GT Black Series, showcasing the potential of this technology. Now, the updated 2026 S-Class will follow suit, with the new M177 V8 engine replacing the previous M176's cross-plane crankshaft. Despite the change, the engine will retain its 4.0-litre capacity and twin turbochargers.
And this is the part most people miss... The M177 engine family is already in use under the hoods of several Aston Martin models, proving its reliability and performance. With the flat-plane crank, Mercedes-Benz aims to reduce emissions, a crucial step towards meeting future emission standards.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the updated engine will deliver even more power, with output increasing to approximately 395kW, enabling a lightning-fast 0–100km/h acceleration time of around 4.0 seconds. This performance upgrade is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to delivering an exceptional driving experience.
While the production reveal is just weeks away, it's worth noting that lower-spec S-Class models will be powered by six-cylinder engines. The more potent S63 AMG, however, remains a mystery, with details yet to be confirmed by the automaker.
As for the Australian market, Mercedes-Benz Australia has not provided a local timing for the updated S-Class, but it has confirmed an update for the V8-powered Maybach SL in the second half of 2026. This news comes after Mercedes-Benz's chief technology officer, Markus Schäfer, assured media that production of V8 and V12 ICE engines will continue, a decision that aligns with the brand's development of future-proof engines ranging from four to eight cylinders.
Mercedes-Benz's journey towards electrification is an intriguing one. While the brand has introduced plug-in hybrid versions of the V8 on the AMG GT four-door and offers PHEVs across other models, it has also faced backlash for replacing the V8 in the C63 with a four-cylinder PHEV. This has led to a reevaluation of its earlier EV ambitions.
Crosstown rival BMW is also developing an ICE-powered M3, a direct competitor to the C63, and an electric M3 on a separate platform. Both brands are committed to V8 engines for the foreseeable future, ensuring that the internal combustion engine remains a powerful force in the automotive industry.
Despite the focus on traditional engines, Mercedes-Benz is not shying away from EVs. The brand continues to develop electric vehicles across its regular lineup and for performance models, including the impressive 1000kW Concept AMG GT XX electric supercar. Mr. Schäfer emphasized this dual strategy, stating that "AMG will continue with two pillars: the electric pillar will grow significantly, but hybridized internal-combustion engines will also remain."
So, what do you think? Is the flat-plane crankshaft the future of performance engines, or is it a controversial move that might divide automotive enthusiasts? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
