2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Facelift Spied in Sedan and Wagon Forms

The longroof gives a much clearer view of the redesigned headlights, which incorporate small three-pointed stars for the daytime running lights. Merc did not bother camouflaging any panels other than the front area of the front end. Both prototypes feature taillights and rear bumpers similar to the outgoing 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

As the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA upgrades to starry taillights, we look forward to said motif on the compact executive model as well. Zooming in also reveals a smoother front bumper, and chances are that a redesigned grille is also in the offing. Expected to be revealed in late 2025, the refresh may further improve on the infotainment side of things.

Because it's based on the platform that underpins the E-Class, hearsay suggests an optional three-display setup. Mercedes-Benz AG calls it MBUX Superscreen in the E-Class, while MBUX Hyperscreen is a slightly better-integrated solution that is currently exclusive to the all-electric EQS and EQE.

Slightly distracting, for sure, but Superscreen's biggest problem comes in the form of digital controls for the HVAC system. Under the skin, the compact executive sedan and station wagon are likely to retain their inline-four turbo electrified powertrains. Not available in the United States of America, the smallest of the bunch is the 1.5-liter M264.

It powers the C 180 and C 200 to the tune of 168 and 201 mechanical horses, respectively. Acting as an alternator, starter motor, and electric motor, the integrated starter generator of the EQ Boost system adds 20 ponies at low engine speeds. EQ Boost augments the 2.0-liter M264 as well, beginning with the 255-horsepower C 300 and C 300 4MATIC.

Europe and certain other markets also get a number of 2.0-liter turbo diesels, ranging from the C 200 d to the C 300 d 4MATIC. All are powered by the aluminum-block OM654 engine. As for plug-in hybrids, the list starts with the M254-based C 300 e. Over in the Old Continent, it's advertised with a WLTP-rated 116 kilometers (72 miles) of EV range.

Stepping up to the C 300 de means 117 kilometers (73 miles) on a full charge of the high-voltage battery. The C 63 S E PERFORMANCE is a plug-in hybrid as well, yet features a smaller battery to keep the curb weight in check. Its weapon of choice is an AMG-specific turbocharged I4 engine that works together with a rear-mounted electric drive unit.

Shared with the mild-hybrid C 43, the M139 stands out in many respects, including the Garrett Motion electrically assisted turbocharger. Good for up to 469 horsepower and 402 pound-feet (545 Newton-meters), the M139 is the most power-dense AMG production engine as of 2025.

Although there was talk of a switch back to V8 muscle for the 2026 model year, the C 63 S E PERFORMANCE will retain the aforementioned four-pot lump. By extension, the V8 isn't coming back to the 63-series GLC either. 

The longroof gives a much clearer view of the redesigned headlights, which incorporate small three-pointed stars for the daytime running lights. Merc did not bother camouflaging any panels other than the front area of the front end. Both prototypes feature taillights and rear bumpers similar to the outgoing 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

As the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA upgrades to starry taillights, we look forward to said motif on the compact executive model as well. Zooming in also reveals a smoother front bumper, and chances are that a redesigned grille is also in the offing. Expected to be revealed in late 2025, the refresh may further improve on the infotainment side of things.

Because it's based on the platform that underpins the E-Class, hearsay suggests an optional three-display setup. Mercedes-Benz AG calls it MBUX Superscreen in the E-Class, while MBUX Hyperscreen is a slightly better-integrated solution that is currently exclusive to the all-electric EQS and EQE.

Slightly distracting, for sure, but Superscreen's biggest problem comes in the form of digital controls for the HVAC system. Under the skin, the compact executive sedan and station wagon are likely to retain their inline-four turbo electrified powertrains. Not available in the United States of America, the smallest of the bunch is the 1.5-liter M264.

It powers the C 180 and C 200 to the tune of 168 and 201 mechanical horses, respectively. Acting as an alternator, starter motor, and electric motor, the integrated starter generator of the EQ Boost system adds 20 ponies at low engine speeds. EQ Boost augments the 2.0-liter M264 as well, beginning with the 255-horsepower C 300 and C 300 4MATIC.

Europe and certain other markets also get a number of 2.0-liter turbo diesels, ranging from the C 200 d to the C 300 d 4MATIC. All are powered by the aluminum-block OM654 engine. As for plug-in hybrids, the list starts with the M254-based C 300 e. Over in the Old Continent, it's advertised with a WLTP-rated 116 kilometers (72 miles) of EV range.

Stepping up to the C 300 de means 117 kilometers (73 miles) on a full charge of the high-voltage battery. The C 63 S E PERFORMANCE is a plug-in hybrid as well, yet features a smaller battery to keep the curb weight in check. Its weapon of choice is an AMG-specific turbocharged I4 engine that works together with a rear-mounted electric drive unit.

Shared with the mild-hybrid C 43, the M139 stands out in many respects, including the Garrett Motion electrically assisted turbocharger. Good for up to 469 horsepower and 402 pound-feet (545 Newton-meters), the M139 is the most power-dense AMG production engine as of 2025.

Although there was talk of a switch back to V8 muscle for the 2026 model year, the C 63 S E PERFORMANCE will retain the aforementioned four-pot lump. By extension, the V8 isn't coming back to the 63-series GLC either.