Spied: Mercedes E Class (SpyShots)

The next generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class isn’t due until 2009, but it seems the German carmaker is really putting the work in.

The new E has already been spotted out testing in Stuttgart, boasting more cladding than an armoured car and a few incongruous details that are unlikely to make production – check the bizarre LED tail-lights and the Lexus-aping headlight disguise. But even with all that it’s possible to see the influence of Mercedes’ range-topping S-Class on the new E, which will feature similarly exaggerated wheel-arches and crease lines. As is typical of Mercedes, some of the S-Class’ ground-breaking technology is also tipped to filter down into the middle-ranking saloon.

While the problematic SBC brake-by-wire system might not be carried over, safety innovations on the new E-Class will include automatic brake disc drying and cornering brake control – with ceramic composite discs possibly an option on AMG models. Lane departure warning systems, eye-movement monitors, cross-wind countering stability control, and even traffic-sign identification should also be available. Speaking of AMG, the new E-Class will almost certainly get the 500+bhp 6.2-litre V8 as an E63 variant, along with all the usual V6 and V8 engines as well. The wedgier-shape – as in our illustration – helps give the E-Class a sportier appeal.




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