The S-class was launched internationally in 2013, and now Mercedes-Benz has started to test early versions of a facelift for its luxury limousine which seem to point towards a mid-cycle facelift. The early test mules look almost identical to the current car with only the headlamp units setting it apart.

The headlamps on the test mule get new detailing with three LED strips along the upper edge in place of the current model’s single strip. One of the main light clusters has also been replaced by a trio of vertically stacked LEDs. It is likely that the new car will get the latest Matrix LED technology at the time of launch. Other exterior changes likely to be seen on later test cars include restyled bumpers and a tweaked grille.

On the inside, the biggest change seems to be the steering which is a standard three-spoke unit and the instrument cluster display which is now a one-piece unit in place of the current car’s twin display. Other changes are not noticeable though it is likely that the car will get revised infotainment software and new trim inserts and options.

In terms of engines, the luxury limousine from Mercedes is expected to retain its existing powertrains with minor tweaks expected to lower emissions and increase efficiency and performance.

The facelifted S-class is still in its early stages of testing so the new model is only likely to become available on road sometime in 2017.

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