Mercedes E-Class Estate

Despite the plain looking disguise it’s hard to argue with this E-Class’ impressive styling.

The all-new version of Mercedes’ flagship estate, code-named the W212, was spotted by our spies in Stuttgart whilst carrying out some routine tests.

The forthcoming E Class will see a deviation from the current version, starting with the wheel-arch extensions which have been borrowed from the S-Class, there’s also a sharp crease running below the door handles and a much larger set of bumpers. The grille has been given a wider-frame, the air intakes a more nasal appearance and the enhanced wedge-shaped profile all add to the W212’s new sportier stance.

Mercedes will abandon SBC in this version in favour of conventional brakes, although they will boast features such as wet-weather disc wiping and wheel-selective cornering brake control. Optional ceramic-composite discs could be introduced top-down, starting with the AMG models.

The updated E-Class is expected to take the estate into S-Class territory in terms of in-car luxuries and sophistication. Driver assistance in general will be major theme for W212. Expect lane-departure warnings, an eye-movement monitor, traffic-sign identification, road-condition sensors and stability control that accounts for crosswinds, camber changes and tire wear.

Power will come from the usual V6- and V8-engines, plus a normally aspirated, 500-plus-bhp 6.2-liter V8 for the E63 AMG model.

The new E-Class is not due to be ready until the Frankfurt Motor Show next year.