- Spy shots reveal Mercedes C-Class 2026 facelift keeps internal combustion engines in the lineup.
- The updated prototype features revamped grille, star-shaped DRLs, and sleeker side mirrors.
- Mercedes-AMG C63 will likely ditch four-cylinder PHEV for a more compelling mild-hybrid V8.
Mercedes appears to be doubling down on its strategy of parallel paths, preparing to introduce fully electric versions of the C-Class and GLC in 2026 while keeping the internal combustion engine models alive and well. New spy shots of a lightly camouflaged C-Class sedan reveal plans for a mid-lifecycle update in 2026, aimed at refining its appeal without sacrificing its ICE-powered character.
Subtle Tweaks, Familiar Identity
The prototype we spied sports camouflage on the front and rear ends, signaling that the most noticeable updates will focus on these areas. Overall, the combustion model appears to retain a distinct visual identity compared to the upcoming EV equivalent, despite Mercedes’ goal of adopting a more homogenous styling approach between EVs and combustion-powered models.
More: 2027 BMW 3-Series To Combine Neue Klasse Styling With Old-School ICE Power
At the front, the new grille will cover a much larger area on the bumper, joined by tweaked intakes and redesigned LED headlights. The lighting units will feature star-shaped DRLs, which will soon become a common theme across the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
The profile’s sheet metal looks identical to the current C-Class, but the mirrors sport a new look, featuring double LED strips for the indicators and new cameras. The updated models also benefits from new sensors on the windscreen, which will likely support a suite of more sophisticated ADAS.
Interior and Powertrain Updates
Judging from Mercedes‘ strategy with facelifts, changes are expected to be less notable at the back. Still, we expect new graphics for the LED taillights, alongside a tweaked bumper. The interior doesn’t appear to have major updates, although this could change in the final production model.
Powertrain changes will focus on improving efficiency and keeping the C-Class compatible with the stricter emission regulations. Mercedes is expected to put more emphasis on the mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
As for the Mercedes-AMG C63 S, company officials have indicated that they will be ditching the highly criticized four-cylinder PHEV setup for a more compelling mild-hybrid V8 engine, similar to the upcoming AMG versions of the CLE coupe and convertible. Such a move would certainly bring back the character enthusiasts have long missed.
More: Thank God The 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Has A Roaring V8
The current fifth-generation Mercedes C-Class (W206) was introduced in 2021 and arrived in North America for the 2022 model year. The facelift will keep the model competitive against the recently unveiled Audi A5 sedan, and BMW‘s upcoming Neue Klasse-styled 3-Series. Interestingly, the three rival brands from Germany will offer EV equivalents based on standalone platforms.
Similar styling and mechanical upgrades are expected to be applied to the mechanically-related Mercedes GLC and GLC Coupe, which have been around since 2022.
