Mercedes-Benz: almost 20 new models coming in 2026

Mercedes-Benz has so many new releases lined up for 2026 that the brand’s run into the new year effectively began well before the midnight chimes. Even before 2025 was out, the three-pointed star had already teased several of the models set to define the year ahead. What we didn’t realise at the time was that this was only the opening act: an unprecedented product offensive is on the way.

In total, we counted almost 20 new arrivals. Very few line-ups will be left untouched, and electrification takes centre stage - from compact cars right up to the flagships. Even so, there’s still room for the launch of a new flat-plane-crank V8 biturbo - Ferrari-style - and it will make its debut in the least expected place: the S-Class. And people say the Germans have no sense of humour.

CLA fires the starting gun

The new generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLA plays a pivotal role in this phase. It was introduced last year as a 100% electric version - which we’ve already had the chance to test - and it has started 2026 on a high by taking the European Car of the Year title.

Over the course of 2026, the range will broaden. First up is the arrival of the CLA Shooting Brake (above), followed by the introduction of versions… with combustion engines. Thanks to the new CLA’s flexible architecture, it can accommodate internal-combustion powertrains, and the CLA mild-hybrid is due shortly. It pairs a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with promised Diesel-like efficiency - discover this engine in detail.

The CLA also became the first model to debut the MMA platform, which will continue to underpin key launches in 2026, starting with the new generation of the GLB. Unveiled at the end of last year, the SUV retains the option of up to seven seats and will share the CLA’s electric powertrains (replacing the EQB) as well as mild-hybrid options. It already has prices for Portugal, with first deliveries scheduled for May 2026:

To round off 2026, the successor to the GLA should appear - the fourth and final model originally planned around the MMA platform. It will also take over from the all-electric EQA, and beneath the bodywork it is not expected to differ from the models mentioned above.

Mercedes’ best-seller now goes electric too

We’re only just getting started, yet Mercedes-Benz already has a packed 2026 pipeline. One of the year’s most significant launches will be the Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ, the spiritual successor to the EQC.

Presented last year at the Munich Motor Show, it introduces the MB.EA platform with an 800 V architecture and claims a range of more than 700 km. It won’t be entering the arena alone: 2026 also brings heavyweight rivals such as the BMW iX3 - which we’ve already been able to drive - and the Volvo EX60, which we went to see in person: watch or rewatch the video. The new electric GLC is also set to draw attention for its huge illuminated “grille” and the 39.1″ (99.3 cm) Hyperscreen, the largest ever fitted to a Mercedes-Benz. It already has prices for Portugal and should arrive in May.

Later on, in autumn, Mercedes will unveil the first ever 100% electric C-Class, built on the same technical foundations as the GLC. As with the electric GLC, the electric C-Class will be sold alongside its namesake models powered by combustion engines.

Meanwhile, the current C-Class will also receive an update in 2026, during spring. Expect styling and technology improvements (a new generation of MBUX, for example), but it’s the future of the C 63 that is prompting the most curiosity:

Luxury on two fronts: 800 V and V8

The EQS hasn’t been the success Mercedes hoped for, but the brand isn’t abandoning it. In 2026 it will undergo a major overhaul: an 800 V architecture (for faster charging), new electric motors, silicon-carbide chips (for greater efficiency), and a fresh facelift. It’s an unusually extensive intervention, designed to keep the electric luxury saloon competitive until the arrival of the all-electric S-Class, confirmed for the end of the decade.

Before that, Mercedes will deliver the most comprehensive single-generation refresh ever applied to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class - the company says 50% of components will be new or revised - with its reveal due at the end of January. A new MBUX and Hyperscreen are confirmed, along with… the debut of a new 4.0 V8 biturbo.

This new V8 is an evolution of the well-known M 177, but it stands apart by adopting a flat-plane crankshaft rather than the traditional cross-plane design - a solution more associated with Maranello than Stuttgart, and the reason Ferrari V8s have that higher-pitched sound we enjoy so much. Mercedes, however, argues the decision helps reduce emissions without giving up performance. The proof is in the figures: output rises from 503 hp and 700 Nm in the current V8 to 537 hp and 750 Nm in the new unit.

AMG more electric than ever

For AMG, 2026 will be a make-or-break year. The headline act will be the production version of the GT XX, which will effectively serve as the electric successor to the four-door GT. Like the concept, it will use three axial-flux motors and is quoted at 1000 kW (1360 hp). It will be a rolling technology statement, due closer to the end of the year.

But more all-electric AMG models are on the way. Everything suggests that, around the same time as the GT, we’ll also be treated to a 100% electric Mercedes-AMG CLA.

Still… steady on - AMG hasn’t turned its back on combustion or V8s. The new flat-plane-crank V8 is also expected to power the CLE 63 coupé and, most likely, to comfortably exceed the 537 hp announced for the S-Class. The SL roadster, launched in 2022, is also set for an update - test prototypes are already being spotted on public roads - and a Maybach take on this historic badge arrives right at the start of 2026.

And there’s even more

Even after all of that, there’s still room for further announcements. In 2026, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and Mercedes-Benz GLS will receive styling, technology and mechanical updates to meet the Euro 7 standard. The three-pointed star has also previewed a G-Class Cabriolet, the VLE - an electric MPV to replace the V-Class - and there are strong indications that the mini G-Class could be revealed this year, ahead of its 2027 launch - discover it in more detail.

With almost 20 new arrivals scheduled, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest years in Mercedes-Benz’s recent history.