Mercedes E-Class Estate

These are the first pictures of the stylish new Mercedes E-Class wagon. With a bold new look, the newcomer is set to go head to head with the BMW 5-Series Touring - and judging by these images it will offer masses of space inside.

At the front will be C-Class style nose with wraparound headlamps, while the flanks feature sharp creases and a purposeful rising waistline. Powerful bulging wheelarches ape those found on the executive S-Class saloon. The upright tail hints at a capacious load carrying potential.

Under the skin the car will be packed with hi-tech kit. Gadgets include selective brake cornering control, a carbon ceramic brake option and the latest version of the firm's COMMAND multi-media interface. Also expected are lane-departure warnings, an eye-movement monitor, traffic-sign identification, road-condition sensors, and stability control that accounts for crosswinds, camber changes, and tyre wear.

Power will come from a line-up of engines familiar to existing Merc owners. Entry-level models get a supercharged 184bhp four-cylinder petrol untit, while rapid AMG versions receive the 500bhp plus 6.3-litre V8. Diesel fans can choose between 2.2, 2.7 and 3.2-litre oil-burners.

Expect the all-new E-Class make its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Show.