Mercedes-Benz 2026 Product Launches: New S-Class, G-Class Cabriolet & CLA Electric

Mercedes-Benz has announced its largest product offensive in the company’s history, preparing more than 40 new and refreshed vehicles for global debut across 2026 and 2027. The Stuttgart luxury manufacturer is doubling down on high-end vehicles, combining traditional combustion powertrains with cutting-edge electric platforms in what represents a radical repositioning of the brand.

Key highlights of the programme:

• Flagship S-Class facelift to be revealed on January 29, 2026
• G-Class Cabriolet returning after 13-year hiatus
• Mercedes-Maybach S-Class with handcrafted V12 engine
• New electric vehicles on dedicated platforms (CLA, GLC, C-Class)
• Performance-focused Mercedes-AMG GT XX electric coupe
• Autonomous S-Class robotaxi deployment announced

When Will the S-Class Facelift Be Revealed?

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift receives its official reveal on January 29, 2026, at Mercedes’ Stuttgart headquarters. This extensively updated flagship sedan features a massive technology upgrade, fresh styling cues, and innovative powertrain options that signal Mercedes’ strategic pivot back to opulence.

S-Class Facelift specifications:

• Massive tech integration and design refinement
• New V8, V12, and hybrid powertrain options
• Advanced autonomous driving systems
• Enhanced infotainment and comfort features
• Expected UAE availability: Early 2026, following the official reveal
• Estimated price range: AED 670,900 to AED 754,900 (comparable to current generation)

The Maybach S-Class variant will follow, featuring an even longer wheelbase and the brand’s legendary handcrafted V12 engine, positioning it as the ultra-luxury flagship for Middle East buyers seeking bespoke refinement.

Why Is the G-Class Cabriolet Such a Big Deal?

The iconic G-Class Cabriolet makes its triumphant return in 2026 after a 13-year absence from the market. This drop-top utility vehicle represents a distinctive niche: open-air luxury combined with legendary off-road capability.

G-Class Cabriolet key features:

• Powered retractable soft-top canvas roof design
• Identical styling to the hard-top G-Class variant
• Available powertrain options: 3.0L inline-six (443 bhp/559 Nm) and 4.0L V8 bi-turbo (577 bhp/849 Nm)
• Expected UAE launch: Early-to-mid 2026
• Estimated price: AED 650,000 to AED 850,000
• Limited-edition Brabus variants available (Brabus G Cabrio 800 with 800 bhp)

The G-Class holds a solid ground in the Middle East, remaining one of the top-selling luxury SUVs. The cabriolet variant appeals to affluent buyers seeking distinctive open-air motoring without compromising off-road credentials or brand prestige.

Which Electric Vehicles Are Launching in 2026?

Mercedes’ electric offensive centres on purpose-built platforms rather than conversions, marking a strategic shift toward dedicated EV architecture.

1. CLA Electric (MMA Platform)

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA with EQ Technology debuts as the first model using the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), accommodating both combustion and electric powertrains. The all-electric CLA offers two variants:

• CLA 250+: Single rear-motor, 268 hp, 6.6-second 0-60 mph, 374-mile EPA range
• CLA 350 4Matic: Dual-motor AWD, 349 hp combined, 4.8-second 0-60 mph, 312-mile range
• Battery: 85 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion
• Charging: 320 kW DC fast charging (150 miles in 10 minutes), 9.6 kW onboard AC charger
• Technology: 800-volt architecture, AI-powered MBUX infotainment, two-speed transmission

The upcoming CLA electric represents Mercedes’ entry point into premium EV ownership, directly competing with BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3 in the UAE market.

2. GLC Electric (MB.EA Platform)

The all-new GLC Electric launches mid-2026 globally, arriving in the UAE by late 2026. 

This mid-premium electric SUV features:

• Drivetrain options: GLC EQ 300+ FWD (374 bhp) / GLC EQ 400 4Matic AWD (489 bhp)
• Range: WLTP-certified 713 km (444 miles)
• Battery: 94 kWh capacity
• Charging: 330 kW rapid charging (10-80% in 24 minutes)
• Premium features: 39.1-inch Hyperscreen, AI-driven MBUX, Level 2 ADAS, transparent hood function

The GLC Electric targets luxury families prioritising range, technology, and the prestige of an established nameplate over startups.

3. C-Class Electric

A dedicated all-electric C-Class joins the 2026 lineup, riding on Mercedes’ 800-volt architecture with comprehensive digital-first features matching the premium positioning.

4. Mercedes-AMG GT XX Electric Coupe

Mercedes-AMG introduces its first dedicated electric platform, the GT XX, delivering:

• Power: 1,000+ kW (1,340+ hp) peak output
• Performance: Tri-motor setup enabling blistering acceleration
• Target: High-performance EV buyers seeking track-capable thrills

Here are more details about the new GT XX.

What Technology Drives These New Models?

Mercedes emphasises unified design language across combustion and electric models, ensuring that every vehicle—regardless of powertrain—conveys heritage luxury and status.

Key technological pillars:

• 800-volt architecture: Enables ultra-rapid charging across EV lineup
• AI-integrated MBUX: Fourth-generation infotainment with natural language commands
• Two-speed transmission: Found in CLA EV, optimises highway efficiency and performance
• Hyperscreen option: 39.1-inch curved display across GLC EV and future models
• OTA capability: Over-the-air updates for infotainment, safety, and performance systems

These technologies position Mercedes as the technology-forward luxury choice for UAE buyers seeking innovation without compromising heritage.

When Can You Order These Vehicles in the UAE?

Due to the affluent nature and the right target audience for Mercedes-Benz in the UAE, we expect the German automaker to make the new model available right after the respective global launches.

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