Mercedes E-Class

FULL MOTOR SHOW REPORT ON MERCEDES E-CLASS HERE

The wraps are off Mercedes' new E-Class! These images surfaced on the internet after they were accidentally released on the German firm's website.

Revealing just how the new Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series rival will look ahead of its official unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show in January, the leak will come as a big shock to Mercedes bosses.

On sale in the UK in June, the new model debuts a more distinctive look for what has always been a conservatively styled large saloon. Styling inspiration comes from the Fascination concept. It gets a sleeker body with new squared-off headlamps, which replace the circular units of the current car. Flagship versions will get LED daytime running lights.

Other changes include a significant increase in size – the E-Class is around 70mm longer than the current car – which should mean it will be more spacious but perform better in crash tests.

Inside, expect the cabin to be heavily influenced by the S-Class with many of its luxury features, including infra-red night vision, a system that detects driver fatigue and a lane departure warning system too.

Under the bonnet, the emphasis will be on increased fuel efficiency with a tweaked range of four-cylinder petrol and all-new common-rail diesels. However, the range-topping models will still be powered by large V8 units, with a 5.5-litre engine for the E500. There will also be a high performance E63 AMG model too.

A diesel hybrid, offering 55mpg and emitting less than 140g/km of CO2 will join the line-up a year or so after launch. Prices will be revealed early next year, but expect the range to start at around £28,000. An estate model will arrive in 2010.

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