Mercedes-Benz has pulled the wraps off a bigger and more technologically advanced E-Class that is set to go on sale later this year.
The new executive saloon car has grown in size but retains a familiar silhouette. Styling at the front and rear is familiar to the outgoing car, fused with modern touches such as flush-fit retractable door handles.
Bigger changes can be found inside, where the E-Class ditches its retro-style interior for a modern, digitally-led cabin.
A floating digital instrument cluster sits alongside a new central touchscreen that measures 14.4-inches. It's mounted portrait style, unlike the screens in the C-Class and S-Class. A third display, positioned in front of the passenger, can be optioned to create a 'Superscreen'.
The entire car is linked to a new type of on-board computer, which Mercedes claims reduces the cars reliance on hardware. As a result there's very few physical switches and the car uses artifical intelligence to identify routines and automate certain functions.
A dashboard-mounted 'selfie' camera enables drivers to interact with third-party apps including Tik Tok and Zoom, while streaming services such as Apple Music and Spotify are also integrated.
Digital key technology means iPhone and Apple Watch users can use their devices to access and start the car, without needed the physical keyfob.
Eventually, Mercedes will also offer a Level 4 autonomous parking system wherby the driver can exit the car and it will park itself in a car park.
The new E-Class will be offered with a range of petrol and diesel powertrains, but no fully electric model.
The entry-level E200 petrol uses a mild-hybrid 2,0-litre engine. There will also be an E220d.
More impresive is the choice of plug-in hybrids. The E 300e gains a new, larger battery that enables a range of around 70 miles. It wil be joined by a new, more powerful E 400e model with 380PS. The E 300de diesel plug-in hybrid is also expected to re-join the line-up later this year with the same battery boost.
Prices for the new E-Class are expected to start at around £50,000. More details on the new E-Class saloon and upcoming estate model will be published closer to the car's on-sale date.
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Matt has been an automotive journalist for eight years. As senior staff writer he is responsible for the automotive content on Fleet News and also contributes to Automotive Management. Prior to this, Matt worked in the automotive industry for 10 years.
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