Mercedes has finally released official photos and details of the next-gen E-Class range. The new E-Class has been thoroughly redesigned, taking on a far more dynamic form than its predecessor in a bid to appeal to younger buyers globally. 

 

It has a clear resemblance to the smaller C-Class and larger S-Classin its exterior design, featuring a swooping roofline and heavily structured surfacing treatment. The visual similarities are part of a broader plan aimed at providing Mercedes’ sedan line-up with a more cohesive appearance than before.

 

The fifth generation model has grown by 43mm in overall length to 4923mm. The wheelbase also extends by 65mm in standard form to 2939mm, resulting in shorter overhangs. This E-Class is also 2mm narrower and 6mm lower than the car it replaces. As with other recent new Mercedes, the new E-Class sets a record for aerodynamic efficiency in its class with a drag coefficient of 0.23.

 

Key among the engineering developments is a new platform structure with higher percentages of hot-formed high-strength steel and aluminium. Similar to the structures used by the C-Class and S-Class, it is claimed to bring weight savings of up to 100kg on a model-for-model basis. The front wings, bonnet and bootlid are all made of sheet or cast aluminium.
 

Comprehensive photo gallery

 

The new E-Class will eventually come with the choice of up to eight engines globally. They include a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine with 181bhp in the E200 and an all-new 2.0-litre diesel with 192bhp in the E220d. The latter engine, codenamed OM654 is set to be introduced to other Mercedes-Benz models this year, replaces the OM651. The diesel line-up will expand to include a base E200d running a detuned version of the new 2.0-litre engine with 148bhp.