2027 Mercedes-Benz S 450d 4MATIC W223
By Lorenzo Bianchi May 15, 2026
The S 450d 4MATIC adopts the updated OM 656 Evo six-cylinder diesel engine with new emissions technology.
Mercedes-Benz introduces MB.OS and fourth-generation MBUX across the revised S-Class range.
Exterior revisions include an illuminated grille, twin-star DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps, and redesigned rear lighting.
A Sharper Identity For The W223 S-Class
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz S 450d 4MATIC W223 arrives as part of the most extensive facelift ever applied to a single S-Class generation. Mercedes-Benz says more than 50 percent of the car has been newly developed, revised, or re-engineered, which becomes evident once the details start stacking up.
The overall silhouette remains familiar. Long wheelbase proportions, restrained surfacing, and the formal roofline still define the S-Class shape. What changes is the way the car presents itself at night.
A larger grille now dominates the front fascia and, for the first time on an S-Class, it can illuminate. Small chrome-finished Mercedes stars embedded into the grille add more visual depth, while the upright hood ornament itself can also illuminate optionally.
The new DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps introduce a twin-star daytime signature along with revised micro-LED technology. Mercedes-Benz claims the illumination field expands by roughly 40 percent compared to the previous setup, with high beam projection reaching up to 600 metres under suitable conditions.
At the rear, chrome-framed star graphics inside the taillights create a more recognisable light signature without changing the car’s understated character.
MB.OS Expands The Cabin Experience
Inside, the S 450d 4MATIC shifts further into software-driven luxury territory.
The updated S-Class introduces Mercedes-Benz Operating System, or MB.OS, which now acts as the vehicle’s digital backbone. The system integrates infotainment, navigation, driver assistance, and vehicle functions into a single architecture with over-the-air update capability.
A standard MBUX Superscreen stretches across the dashboard, combining a 14.4-inch central display with a 12.3-inch passenger display beneath one glass panel. Rear passengers receive larger 13.1-inch entertainment displays and detachable remote controllers for climate, seating, and media functions.
Mercedes-Benz also revisited the steering wheel controls after criticism of earlier touch-sensitive layouts. Traditional-style rocker switches and a roller-style volume controller return, improving usability during everyday driving.
Comfort remains central to the S-Class identity. Heated seat belts, Digital Vent Control, and an electric air filtration system capable of removing extremely fine airborne particles now form part of the updated luxury package.
Revised Diesel Power With Greater Refinement
The S 450d 4MATIC continues as the diesel-focused long-distance flagship within the lineup.
Power comes from the updated OM 656 Evo inline-six diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and integrated starter-generator. Mercedes-Benz says the revised powertrain introduces the industry’s first series-production electrically heated catalytic converter for faster emissions treatment during cold starts.
Additional improvements to exhaust gas recirculation, cooling, and crankcase ventilation aim to improve durability and efficiency over longer ownership periods. The integrated starter-generator also assists with coasting, recuperation, and smoother stop-start operation.
Ride comfort remains a defining trait. Standard AIRMATIC suspension and optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL now feature predictive damping adjustments for longer speed bumps, while rear-wheel steering of up to 10 degrees improves manoeuvrability in tighter urban environments.