The facelift will keep the Mercedes C-Class in competition with the new Audi A5 sedan and the upcoming BMW Neue Klasse 3 Series for a little longer.
- Spy photos show that the 2026 Mercedes C-Class facelift retains the internal combustion engine model.
- The updated prototype features a revised grille, star-shaped daytime running lights and sleeker side mirrors.
- The Mercedes-AMG C63 may ditch the four-cylinder PHEV in favor of a more compelling mild-hybrid V8.
Mercedes appears to be doubling down on a parallel strategy, preparing to launch all-electric versions of the C-Class and GLC in 2026 while keeping the combustion engine models alive and well. New spy shots of a lightly camouflaged C-Class sedan reveal plans for a mid-life refresh in 2026, aimed at boosting its appeal without sacrificing its ICE power characteristics.
Subtle tweaks, familiar identity
We spotted sporty camouflage on the front and rear ends of the prototype, suggesting the most noticeable updates will be concentrated in these areas. Overall, while Mercedes is aiming for a more homogenous styling approach between electric and combustion-powered models, the combustion model appears to retain a unique visual identity compared to the outgoing EV.
More: 2027 BMW 3 Series combines Neue Klasse styling with old-school ICE Power
At the front, a new grille will cover a larger area of the bumper, with tweaked air intakes and redesigned LED headlights. The lighting fixtures will feature star-shaped daytime running lights, which will soon become a common theme across the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
The profile’s sheetmetal looks identical to the current C-Class, but the wing mirrors get a new look, complete with dual LED strips for indicators and a new camera. The updated model also benefits from new sensors on the windshield, which may support a more sophisticated set of ADAS.
Interior and powertrain updates
Judging from Mercedes’ facelift strategy, it is expected that the changes at the rear will not be so obvious. Still, we’re expecting new graphics for the LED taillights, as well as a tweaked bumper. There appear to be no major updates to the interior, although this may change in the final production model.
Powertrain changes will focus on improving efficiency and keeping the C-Class in compliance with stricter emissions regulations. Mercedes is expected to put more emphasis on mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
As for the Mercedes-AMG C63 S, company officials say they will ditch the much-criticized four-cylinder PHEV setup in favor of a more attractive mild-hybrid V8 similar to the upcoming AMG version of the CLE Coupe and convertible. Such a move would definitely bring back a character that fans have been missing for a long time.
More: Thank God the 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 has a roaring V8
The current fifth-generation Mercedes C-Class (W206) was launched for 2021 and arrives in North America for the 2022 model year. The facelift will make the model competitive with the recently launched Audi A5 sedan and BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse-styled 3 Series sedan. Interestingly, three rival brands from Germany will offer EV equivalents based on independent platforms.
Similar styling and mechanical upgrades are expected to arrive on the mechanically relevant Mercedes GLC and GLC Coupe from 2022 onwards.
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