Mercedes Set to Abandon Irksome Twin-Spoke Steering Wheel in Upcoming C-Class Model
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon is set to undergo a mid-cycle facelift, with modest exterior and interior updates aimed at refinement rather than a full redesign.
Externally, the wagon shows a slightly more pinched nose, suggesting a new grille design, and adopting "starry" lighting elements in the headlights, mirroring the updated theme introduced in the facelifted sedan and CLS models. The side profile will remain largely unchanged, while the rear may also see star-inspired lighting, though this is concealed under vinyl wraps at this stage.
Inside, the 2026 C-Class Wagon will retain the two-screen cockpit layout with separate infotainment and instrument panel displays. However, a notable update is the replacement of the current spit-spoke steering wheel with a more conventional three-spoke steering wheel. The center touchscreen will maintain its tablet-like floating design, but new infotainment upgrades and more physical controls are expected for better usability. Additionally, an optional front passenger display may be available, catering to customer demand for enhanced cabin technology and luxury.
Mechanically, there will be minor chassis and suspension tweaks to keep the model competitive. Engine updates will mostly focus on mild electrification improvements to meet Euro 7 emissions standards, continuing the use of four-cylinder engines for non-AMG variants. The high-performance AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE model may replace its turbo inline-four with a more traditional AMG six-cylinder powertrain to better align with customer expectations.
It's important to note that the C-Class Wagon is not currently offered in the U.S. and is not expected to return to the American market with this update.
The 2026 C-Class Wagon was spied with only a token disguise, revealing the interior for the first time in this prototype. A gallery of pictures of the updated wagon prototype is available for those interested in a closer look.
The platform's daily newsletter provides the latest car news, reviews, and features, keeping readers informed about the latest developments in the automotive world. No contact information for sending tips is repeated, but we welcome any news or insights you might have.
[1] Car and Driver [2] Motor1 [3] Auto Express
- The upcoming mid-cycle facelift for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon promises refined changes in all aspects, including the adoption of starry lighting elements in the headlights, reflecting the updated design theme across various models in the automotive industry such as the sedan and CLS models.
- Financing options for the updated 2026 C-Class Wagon may be available from diverse sources in the finance industry, making it easier for consumers to acquire this luxurious, technologically advanced car with enhanced lifestyle features like an optional front passenger display.
- With this facelift, the 2026 C-Class Wagon might attract attention from passengers traveling via various modes of transportation, boasting sleek modern updates to its interior, including a more conventional three-spoke steering wheel and new infotainment upgrades, delivering a superior driving experience for both drivers and passengers.
