Revealed: pictures and engine details for new Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes has thoroughly redesigned the fifth generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class; it goes on sale in the spring with a choice of eight different engines.  

What is it?

The latest E-Class has been made more dynamic and more likely to appeal to younger buyers. Visually, the new car shares much of its design language with the C-Class and larger S-Class, a move aimed at giving the Mercedes-Benz line-up a more cohesive appearance than before.

The new E-Class is longer than its predecessor, with an extended wheelbase; it's also lower and narrower. Mercedes has also set a new record for aerodynamic efficiency in this class with the E-Class.

Underpinning the latest E-Class is a new, lightweight platform structure, which is said to save up to 100kg of weight on some models.

What engines can I choose from?

In the UK, the E-Class will eventually come with a choice of eight engines. Only five will be available at launch, however, and they include a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol with 181bhp, and an all-new 2.0-litre diesel with 192bhp. The latter engine is claimed to return up to 72.4mpg, with CO2 emissions of 102g/km.

The line-up will expand soon after launch to include a more powerful 2.0-litre petrol with 242bhp, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 328bhp, and a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with 580bhp in the range-topping E63 AMG.

Other diesel engines that will follow later in the year include an entry-level 2.0-litre unit with 148bhp. An all-new straight six 3.0-litre diesel with 254bhp is also expected later in 2016.

Mercedes-Benz is also looking to introduce a plug-in hybrid model, which will be capable of travelling up to 19 miles on electric power alone. The model will mate a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 275bhp. It is claimed to return up to 135mpg with CO2 emissions of 49g/km.

How much equipment does it come with?

The new E-Class gets a thoroughly upgraded cabin, with all but the entry-level model receiving a completely digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, which is presented on two 12.3-inch screens.

Other upgrades include new touchpads on the steering wheel, which work with a touchpad controller on the centre console as well as a rotary controller to work the infotainment system.

Drivers can change the look of the dashboard choosing from several different themes, and the system also features Apple Carplay and Android Auto functionality. A wireless charging mat for mobile phones is also included, as is a USB connection.

The E-Class is fitted with a new range of seats that are claimed to provide more support and a wider range of cushioning than before. They vary in look depending on the specification of the car. 

This is the first model to receive Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot, which brings a range of semi-autonomous driving functions including the ability to follow vehicles at speeds of up to 130mph. The system can also intervene with steering and braking at speeds of up to 81mph in order to avoid potential accidents. Other features include a remote parking system, which enables drivers to manoeuvre the car into parking spaces using an app, and an autonomous lane changing tool.

Another option planned for the new E-Class is an adjustable air suspension system withn four different driving modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport and Sport Plus.

How much will it cost?

Full pricing for the new E-Class won’t be announced until closer to the car’s launch in the UK. However, Mercedes-Benz officials have hinted that the starting price will be just under £36,000, making the new E-Class only marginally more expensive than the car it replaces, which costs from £34,870.

How good are its rivals?

The new E-Class will compete against large executive rivals including the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Jaguar XF. All three cars are well regarded on What Car? - the 5 Series currently holds a full five-star test rating.

They are claimed to provide more support and a wider range of cushioning than before.