Mercedes E-Class

A trio of E-Class models are due next year - and our spies have managed to capture them all out testing at the famous Nurburgring circuit!

The E-Class saloon and estate, both codenamed W212, are due to be launched at next year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, with the more powerful top-spec E63 AMG following later in the year.

According to our sources, Mercedes has decided to abandon the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) found on the current E-Class range in favour of conventional brakes - although they will boast added features such as wet-weather disc wiping and wheel-selective cornering brake control. It is also likely there will be optional ceramic-composite discs available for the top-of-the-range E63 AMG model.

All models are given a sporty makeover, with inspiration drawn from the current S-Class. New-look wheel arch extensions, a more evident rising crease below the door handles and distinctive bumpers will give the new exec saloon an aggressive look. At the front, the wide-frame grille is now more sculpted, and the more defined wedge-shaped profile will help complete the W212’s sportier stance.

The E-Class will include a host of new technology, including lane-departure warning, 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 the usual V6 and V8 petrol engines, plus a normally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 for the E63 AMG model, boasting over 500bhp.